Etiquette Tips for your stay in Palestine: Whilst you will find that in Palestine, people are extremely open and respectful of visitors, it is best to familiarize yourself with some do´s and don’ts. It is fair to say that some Arabic countries are stricter than others but in Palestine best think of it as a way to connect better with the locals and show them you have an understanding and respect for their culture and traditions.

The Palestinians will strike you as full of life and ever so happy giggly people.  At first, their humor seems almost naïve, they laugh about simple everyday things and then you realize that perhaps you´re the one who is too serious about life! If you have ever traveled to Saudi Arabia or Qatar for example, you will no doubt notice the difference in attitude…The Palestinians are a lot more relaxed in general. For example, the inter-gender relationship is a lot less rigid! You will see men and women work together, share meals in family gathering in the same room etc…

Having said that, the Palestinians are Muslims and very attached to what it means even though, they give the strong impression that they have adopted religion to their way of life. A female student from the EC Centre says: “I prefer praying in my home so that´s what I do! I don´t like going to the Mosque, I only go occasionally to Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron. My faith is between Allah and me, I try to be a good Muslim which is first and foremost about being a good human being”.

So, what should you know before you come to Palestine about respecting local customs? Clothing-wise, no one expects you to wear a hijab if you are a non-muslim but women should not show flesh (big “no-no” to low-cut tops, mini skirt or mid-rift top). During summer opt for long dresses. To enter any mosque, you will need to cover your hair so plan for a scarf big enough. Generally, the mosques will lend a cape or a  robe to visitors.

Although you may find alcohol in some cities like Bethlehem or Jerusalem, this is “haram” (forbidden) in the Muslim religion and regarded as a serious offense by the locals so please refrain from bringing or consuming alcohol whilst you´re in a Muslim city. Obviously, a bottle of wine is the last item you should bring to friends or host families as a gift! Porc is also “haram” so don´t bring any with you.

Touching and kissing between genders is not well regarded in public so best keep in mind. In general, in Arabic countries, dating is not practiced. There is a certain process for finding a partner and getting family approval. In Palestine, the woman is consulted on whether she wishes to get married. Often, as a girl visiting you will get asked if you are married. A Palestinian woman especially an unmarried one will not travel alone as it is not seen well at all. If you have a boyfriend, best say you are married as you won´t have to explain that dating is ok in your country.

Palestinians are too polite to ever tell you off if they feel you haven´t respected their traditions but if you make the effort to understand those points, you will enjoy your experience even more and that´s what it´s all about. ☺