10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Bangladesh

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of adapting to a different culture. Bangladesh is a country with rich traditions and customs, and as an expat, it's important to be mindful of local etiquette to avoid cultural faux pas. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate the cultural landscape of Bangladesh and show respect to its people.

1. Dress Conservatively

When living in Bangladesh, it's important to dress modestly, especially for women. Traditional attire such as the salwar kameez for women and panjabi for men is widely accepted and shows respect for local customs. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, as it can be considered disrespectful in this predominantly Muslim country.

2. Use Right Hand for Eating and Greetings

In Bangladeshi culture, the left hand is considered unclean, so always use your right hand for eating and when shaking hands or passing objects to others. This simple gesture is a sign of respect and will be appreciated by locals.

3. Remove Shoes Before Entering Homes

It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home in Bangladesh. This practice is a sign of respect and helps keep the indoors clean. You may also find shoe racks or designated areas for shoes outside the entrance of homes and even some businesses.

4. Be Mindful of Religious Practices

Religion plays a significant role in the daily lives of Bangladeshis. Be respectful of Islamic prayer times, dietary restrictions (such as pork and alcohol), and religious holidays. During the holy month of Ramadan, be particularly considerate of those fasting by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

5. Learn Basic Bengali Phrases

While many Bangladeshis speak English, learning a few basic phrases in Bengali can go a long way in showing your respect for the local language and culture. Simple greetings like "Salam" (hello) and "Dhonnobad" (thank you) can help build rapport with the community.

6. Understand the Concept of 'Face'

Preserving dignity, or 'face', is important in Bangladeshi culture. Avoid public criticism or confrontation, as it can cause embarrassment and is considered rude. Instead, address issues privately and with tact.

7. Accept Hospitality Graciously

Bangladeshis are known for their hospitality. If you are invited to someone's home, it is polite to accept the invitation and partake in the food and drink offered. Refusing without a valid reason may be seen as impolite.

8. Be Patient and Flexible

Things may not always go as planned, and schedules are often seen as flexible in Bangladesh. Patience is a virtue, and showing frustration or impatience can be seen as disrespectful. Embrace the local pace of life and be adaptable.

9. Respect Hierarchies and Titles

Social hierarchy is significant in Bangladeshi society. Show respect to elders and those in authority positions by using proper titles and formalities. This respect is often reciprocated and can help in building strong relationships.

10. Be Cautious with Photography

While Bangladesh offers many beautiful photo opportunities, always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women and children. Some may consider it intrusive or offensive, so it's best to be respectful and seek consent.

We hope these tips will help you navigate the cultural nuances of Bangladesh and enrich your experience as an expat. Share your thoughts and experiences on Expat Exchange's Bangladesh forum to connect with fellow expats and learn from their insights.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Bangladesh

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Bangladesh. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, so it is best to avoid kissing or hugging in public. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to respect religious customs, such as removing shoes before entering a mosque or temple. It is also important to be aware of the local customs regarding food, as some dishes may be considered offensive or inappropriate. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Bangladesh," commented an expat living in Bangladesh.