Iraq Country Handbook - Europe Link

person. “OK” may be shown by touching the outer edge of one’s eyes
with the fingertips. The “A-OK” (forming a circle with the index finger
and thumb of one hand) and “thumbs-up” gesture are considered
obscene by Arabs. The left hand is considered unclean; the right hand
should be used when gesturing. To beckon another person, all fingers
wave with the palm facing downward.
Hospitality
Arabs are generous and value generosity in others. Hospitality toward
guests is essential for a good reputation. Arabs assume the role of host
readily, regardless of the setting.
Shortly after guests arrive, Arab hosts offer beverages, which should
always be accepted as an expression of friendship or esteem. Shops and
business offices have employees whose sole duty is to serve beverages
to guests. When a guest is served a beverage, he should hold the cup
with his right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Arabs expect to be received with hospitality when they are guests, and
they judge others on how well they host their guests.
Dress Standards
Arabs are proud and public appearance is extremely important to them.
They dress and behave much more formally than Americans do. In the
U.S., status is connected to social position, salary, or power. In the Middle
East, one’s status is judged by public presentation, from dress to personal
conduct. Many people dress formally for work, whether they are
professionals or laborers. At work, the laborer may change clothes or
even work in his more formal wear. Many Arabs believe Americans
dress much too casually.
Those in Iraq should:
■ Avoid wearing scanty clothing,
■ Wear clothes that prevent sunstroke and sunburn, and
■ Wear clothes that allow them to maintain key documents on their persons.
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