General Behavior

Social Conventions

The right hand is used both for shaking hands (the usual form of greeting) and for passing or receiving things. Mutual hospitality and courtesy are of great importance at all levels, whatever the social standing of the host. Visitors must remember that most Pakistanis are Muslim and should respect their customs and beliefs.

Smoking is prohibited in some public places and it is polite to ask permission before lighting a cigarette. It is common for visiting business people to be entertained in hotels and restaurants. If invited to a private home, a gift or national souvenir is welcome. Informal dress is acceptable for most occasions. Women should avoid wearing tight clothing and both men and women should ensure that their arms and legs are covered. Pakistani society is divided into classes and within each group there is a subtle social grading. The Koran is the law for Muslims and it influences every aspect of daily life.

Being hospitable to guests is a part of the way of life as Pakistanis. But being a good guest is the other side of this coin. Below are some tips to keep your hosts happy and your visit virtually problem-free.

Don't overstay

It is believed a guest (family member or close friend) deserves a day and a night of hospitality. However you need to judge carefully what your hosts intentions are and try not to become a  burden or seem like your abusing their openness and generosity. One should act wisely and judge for yourself  how long is too long for our hosts. Your host may not be as financially well off as yourself.

Give gifts and receive gifts graciously

What better way to bridge the gap between friends or relatives thousands of miles away than to give a gift? In particular, encourage kids to give gifts to relatives of the same age and gender. This may be the springboard to developing a deep, meaningful friendship, not just a blood relationship. But these gifts should not become an excuse for extravagance or showing off, both of which might be considered obnoxious and ungrateful.

Accept all gifts graciously. Even if it's the 100th leather wallet you've received, don't make a fuss about it.

Respect your elders

Respecting the elders is a requirement of  Islam, whether you're in the West or in Pakistan. Certain behaviors need to be avoided in this regard: speaking with disrespect, even if you disagree with an older person; sitting with legs stretching  or putting your feet up on the table where you would "break bread"  would be considered disrespectful.

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