What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Kuwait?
We asked people in Kuwait if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"When I was interviewing for the position (school counselor), the Kuwaiti man on the interview team wouldn't give me eye contact when I was answering his questions. He'd look down at his papers, or over at my husband (it was a team interview, jobs for both of us). I thought he was being rude or that I was bombing out on the interview, like he wasn't interested. I found out later, that this was a form of respect for me. If he'd looked me in the eye it could be interpreted as a come on/flirtation. I am glad I kept my fuming to myself and didn't accuse him of being rude or uninterested in my responses during the interview," remarked another expat in Hawally, Kuwait.
"It is important to be respectful of Kuwaiti culture and customs when visiting Kuwait. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs regarding alcohol consumption, as alcohol is not widely available in Kuwait. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when it comes to greeting people, as it is considered rude to shake hands with members of the opposite sex," said a member in Kuwait.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Kuwait?
- How do I meet people in Kuwait?
- What is life like in Kuwait?
- Is there a lot of crime in Kuwait?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Kuwait accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Kuwait like?
- Is the cost of living in Kuwait high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Kuwait?
- What are healthcare services like in Kuwait?
- Is the cost of living in Kuwait high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Kuwait?
- What is the weather like in Kuwait?
- Are there good restaurants in Kuwait?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Kuwait?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Kuwait?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kuwait?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Kuwait?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Kuwait?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Kuwait?
If you live in Kuwait, newcomers to Kuwait would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.