Etiquette in Iran
Iranians are generally quite forgiving of Westerners for any minor cultural transgressions – they don't expect you to know all of the rules. Some useful things to remember, however:
- Dress modestly. This applies to both men and women.
- Learn some Farsi before you go – a sure way to win local friends.
- Take some small gifts from home to repay the many small acts of kindness and hospitality you're likely to receive while in Iran.
- When invited to dinner take a tin of the local sweets (eg gaz in Esfahan).
- Take the time greet people you meet – greetings are important to Iranians and launching into conversation without a greeting is considered rude.
- Never use the thumbs up sign, which is the equivalent of the middle finger ‘up yours’.
- Men should not offer to shake a woman’s hand unless she offers first.
- Take off your shoes when entering a home or a mosque.
