Basic Etiquette
It is courteous to initially decline an offer to pay for your meal (example: "I couldn't possibly let you do that") before they insist and you gratefully accept. Being late is typical among friends and is not a sign of disrespect or rudeness. Somalis have a reputation for being very patient and keeping time in a more relaxed manner. However, in business situations, punctuality is anticipated.
To respect your Somali counterpart's modesty, dress in clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. When in public, women in particular are required to act and dress modestly. Women's hair can be unacceptable to display in public. People who are single should avoid approaching single people of the other sex.
If you are a man, publicly flirting with a Somali girl or lady is not proper. During the daylight hours of the month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in front of a Muslim. Being seated and exposing your foot's soles to another person is impolite.
Ask for permission and respect people's privacy before snapping their picture, especially if they are women. Always give someone who is older than you a seat. When a person older than you enters a room, get up. Giving advice to an elderly person or openly disagreeing with them is extremely insulting.
