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  • When meeting someone the handshake is the most common form on greeting. You will also see people place their hands over their hearts and nod slightly.
  • One should always enquire about things like a person's health, business, family, etc.
  • Women and men will never shake hands let alone speak directly to one another.
  • Eye contact should also be avoided between men and women. Between men eye contact is acceptable as long as it is not prolonged - it is best to only occasionally look someone in the eyes.

Business Etiquette, Customs and Protocol

Business cards are not widely used in Afghanistan. They therefore carry a sense of importance and prestige.
If you are given a business card, take it respectfully and study it so that they see that you are spending time considering their credentials. Comment on it and any qualifications the giver may have.
There is no real protocol used for exchanging cards except to use your right hand.
It may be a good idea to have your card translated into Dari or Pashtu.
 

Mixing Between Genders

Free mixing between genders only takes place within families and close relatives.
In professional situations such as at businesses or universities, males and females may be co-workers, but are nevertheless cautious to maintain each other's honor.
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