Giving Gift Etiquette
Gift-giving is a personal and widespread practice throughout Saudi Arabia. Personal gifts, on the other hand, are typically given only by close friends. If you are invited to a Saudi family's home, it is customary to bring a small gift as a thank you (e.g. food items). This should be given as a gesture to the entire family rather than to a specific member. It is considered especially impolite for men to give individual women gifts, especially those with romantic overtones (e.g. flowers).
Avoid giving expensive or extravagant gifts. This can embarrass the recipient, especially if given in public. When a gift is given, it is unlikely that it will be opened in front of the giver. Unless the object is too heavy and both hands are required, give and pass gifts with the right hand. Saudis may thoroughly examine a gift upon receipt, remarking on it in admiration to demonstrate their appreciation and respect for the giver's choice.
Do not give alcohol, pork, knives, pigskin, alcoholic perfumes, or anything with a sexualized image of a woman. Perfumes, watches, and 'Oud' (a type of incense or oil used daily by Saudis) are popular and appropriate personal gifts for men.
Unless they are a very close relative, men should not buy perfume or Oud for a woman. Women may purchase Oud for one another. Avoid purchasing gold or silk clothing for Saudi men. Wearing these materials is prohibited by Islamic law. Silver is the best color and material to buy for men. Even if they are only going away for the weekend, Saudis almost always bring gifts for friends and family.
