Greetings & Gestures in Algeria
Second helpings, extended greetings, and respect for gender roles; knowing these basics will help you enjoy the famous Algerian hospitality!
By Kahina Smali with Lisa Bartels
Algeria is a land of diversity - a blend of ancient tradition and modern, coast and desert, urban and rural, and other-worldly landscapes! Visitors to Algeria can enjoy a camel ride in the desert or a speedboat ride in the Mediterranean sea. They can bargain for traditional handicrafts in a crowded market or buy the latest designer styles in an air-conditioned shopping mall. They can visit Roman ruins, go spelunking in a mysterious cave, marvel at a world-class art museum, and sample delicious treats in a traditional tea room… all in the same day! Algeria’s unique history guarantees a surprise around every corner!
See for yourself:
Indeed, the cultural diversity in Algeria includes both Berber and Arab populations with a heavy dose of French influence. Greetings vary according to gender, age, relationship, and cultural norms, and will be very different from one region to another. When you visit Algeria, follow these guidelines - but be prepared to adapt to regional customs and variations.
Be Aware of Gender Norms!
Throughout much of Algeria, Muslim women wearing a scarf do not touch men for religious reasons. Visitors to Algeria should be aware of this cultural expectation and carefully guard their behavior toward members of the opposite sex. When a man and a woman meet, it is appropriate to let the woman take the lead in the type of greeting. If you’re not sure what to do, watch the people around you and copy their behavior.
Handshakes
A handshake is a general greeting gesture amongst the Algerian people, especially in Arabic culture. Handshakes should be firm, but not extremely hard. Handshakes are common in business settings.
“In multicultural Algeria, greetings vary by region. Learn these basics, and then follow the lead of the locals!”
Some individuals will use a more gentle handshake while bending their heads in a slight bow.
When a man and woman meet, the woman can take the lead in initiating a handshake. She may instead give a polite nod, which the man should reciprocate.
Small Talk
When greeting an Algerian, take your time. In addition to the typical Western greetings of “Hello, how are you?”, it's polite to ask questions about each other’s family, health, the weather, and local events. Knowing a few facts about a local sports team is always a great topic of conversation! These drawn-out greetings help build relationships, which are critical for anyone wishing to live or do business in Algeria.
Kisses on the Cheek
Cheek Kissing is a form of greeting among friends, family, and close acquaintances. In Algeria, it is common to greet close friends by kissing on both cheeks, sometimes two times, sometimes four times.
Two Women - cheek kissing is common between friends and family.
Two men - close friends and family give two cheek kisses and give a brief hug.
One man and one woman - Men greet some women in some circumstances with two cheek kisses, depending on familiarity, social norms, and personal comfort of the individuals involved. This is not done universally, so watch those around you and follow their lead.
Cheek kissing is only done between friends and family; never in formal settings nor between strangers.
Placing the Hand on the Heart (From men to Muslim women wearing a scarf)
When a man and a woman greet, they may each place their hand over their own heart. This common gesture shows sincerity and respect without any touch. The gesture is generally seen among very conservative religious groups.
“Extended greetings help build relationships, which are critical for anyone wishing to live or do business in Algeria.”
Space and Touch
Algerians like to share physical space, and this may feel ‘too close’ to Westerners. Don’t back away when an Algerian friend talks to you - they’re just showing warmth! It is common for friends of the same gender to place a hand on their friend’s arm while talking or to hold hands while walking together. This is not a romantic gesture; it’s simply a symbol of closeness and friendship.
Physical affection between people of opposite genders (such as holding hands, hugging, etc.) is always inappropriate in Algeria.
Eating and Visiting
If you visit an Algerian’s home, be sure to bring a gift. Flowers, fruit, and candy are good options.
For most Algerians, alcohol is taboo and will not be served.
You will be encouraged to take seconds, thirds, and fourths! It’s a good idea to start with a small portion so you can take more food throughout the meal.
It’s polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate. This shows that you have eaten your fill. If you clean your plate, your host might add more food.
Even for a short visit, Algerians will serve you food, fruits, or coffee and juice. You will not leave an Algerian house without eating or drinking something. Algerians are known for being very generous, as hospitality is a feature of Arabic cultures.
Algeria is a destination like no other! Applying cultural knowledge will allow you to enjoy this amazing country!
Kahina Smali, originally from Algeria, teaches French in North Carolina.
My name is Kahina Smali. I am a French teacher at Apex High School, originally I am from Béjaïa, Algeria, located near the beautiful Mediterranean coast. My linguistic journey has been rich and diverse, as I speak four languages: Arabic, Berber (Tamazight), French, and English. With a background in English language teaching and second language acquisition, I bring a multicultural perspective to my classroom. My passion for languages and teaching reflects my deep connection to my Algerian roots and my commitment to helping students explore linguistic and cultural diversity.
