The family and tribe are the basis of the social structure.
As is seen in their naming conventions, Saudis are cognizant of their heritage, their clan, and their extended family, as well as their nuclear family.
Saudis take their responsibilities to their family quite seriously.
Families tend to be large and the extended family is quite close.
The individual derives a social network and assistance in times of need from the family.
Nepotism is considered a good thing, since it implies that employing people one knows and trusts is of primary importance.
Meeting Etiquette
Men shake hands. Good friends may greet each other with a handshake and a kiss on each cheek.
Women generally hug and kiss close friends.
Men and women would not greet each other in public I from outside the family.
When Saudis greet each other they take their time and converse about general things.
Gift-Giving Etiquette
Gifts are not the norm as in many other countries.
If you are invited to a Saudi’s house bring something small as a thank you.
Flowers do not make good gifts from a man, although a woman could give them to her hostess.
Never give alcohol unless you are positive they partake.
Islam
Islam is practiced by all Saudis and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam was born in Saudi Arabia and thus is visited by millions of Muslims every year. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God’s emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day – at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public.
Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.
Information within this page comes courtesy of a previous 457 class's project: http://teachersofesl.wordpress.com