Greeting and Meeting Etiquette
Meeting someone from Kuwait is different from meeting someone from America. Here, people are greeted by handshakes, not hugs. An air kiss on the cheek as one would give a close friend is a good way to begin the conversation. In Kuwait, the way you shake someone’s hand depends on the status of your relationship with that person.
The upper hand should lead the lower hand unless you are shaking with women who are older than you. It is proper etiquette to shake hands with everyone in your party, or just the men in business situations.
When greeting sofmeone for the first time, it is best to give your name and a pleasantry. A simple “nice to meet you”, will suffice. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked any combination of the following questions: " Where are you from?", " How do you like Kuwait?", "How old are you?", "How much money do you make?".
If you have been invited to a Kuwaiti’s home as a guest, hand over a package wrapped in cloth and have the gift presented to your host. When entering and leaving a home, it is best to bring a small bouquet of flowers to your hostess. Just like how to shake hands, it is necessary to remove your shoes at the door.
