Are There Specific Customs For Dining With Locals?

Dining with Bahrainis offers wonderful cultural insights, and following traditional etiquette enhances the experience significantly.

Dining Etiquette:

• Always use your right hand for eating - the left hand is considered unclean in Islamic culture
• Wait for the host to begin eating or invite you to start
• Try a little of everything offered to show appreciation
• Compliment the food - hosts take great pride in their hospitality
• It is polite to accept extra servings if you wish, but you may also decline graciously with thanks.

Traditional Floor Dining:

• Sit cross-legged or kneel on one knee when meals are served on floor mats
• Never let your feet touch the food mat or point soles toward others
• Remove shoes before entering the dining area

Hospitality Customs:

• Arabic coffee and dates are typically offered first as welcoming gestures
• Reciprocating invitations is a kind gesture and appreciated, but not always expected from visitors.
• Traditional gatherings are often gender-segregated, with men and women hosting guests separately.
• Stay for tea or coffee after the meal - leaving immediately is considered rude

Tipping Culture:

• A 10–15% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills; leaving a small additional tip is appreciated but not required.
• Carry small change (fils) for convenient tipping in various situations

Remember that alcohol is served in licensed venues, but respect if your hosts abstain.