Start with a polite hello and follow the other person's lead about physical contact. Do not infer someone's religion or greeting preferences from their appearance or region.
- In Arabic, "Marhaba" means hello and is religiously neutral. If someone greets you with "Asalaamu alaikum", reply "Wa alaikum salaam", returning the wish of peace.
- In Sorani-speaking parts of the Kurdistan Region, "Slaw" means hello. Ask your host which greeting suits the local language rather than assuming everyone uses Arabic.
- At a first introduction or formal meeting, greet people respectfully and use their title and first name, such as Dr. Ahmed, until invited to be more casual. In a home, stand to greet an older person.
- If you shake hands, use your right hand. Some people avoid contact with someone of another gender. Wait for the other person to offer a hand, especially when greeting a woman. If no hand is offered, say hello with a nod instead.
- Among friends and family, greetings can include cheek kisses or hugs. As a visitor, do not initiate these. Let your host guide you.
These are social-etiquette suggestions, not a statement of legal requirements.
Source: Cultural Atlas: Iraqi greetings.
Checked on 2026-10-26.