Life in the Gulf

As-Salaam Alaykum

As-Salaam Alaykum means Peace be upon you. If said to you, try to respond with the same words backwards: Alaykuum As Salaam which means Upon you Peace. In a social situation involving males,, shake hands, not too firmly with all nearby persons, starting with the most senior. These social signals are highly cost effective in terms of the minor effort needed in preparation. However, some fervent Muslims dislike Westerners using an Islamic greeting and caution will be needed when in such company.