Physical Touch Etiquette in Bahrain

Physical touch between unrelated men and women is usually kept very limited in Bahrain, so wait for the other person to initiate a handshake and avoid hugs, cheek kisses, or casual touching unless you know the relationship is close. Among men, handshakes are common and may be warm and lingering, while in more traditional settings people may greet with a light touch to the heart or a verbal greeting instead of direct contact.