Greetings and Communication
Greetings in Eritrea can vary depending on the region, ethnic group, and setting, but handshakes are common in most situations. Make sure to use your right hand when shaking hands—this is customary across many parts of the country. Handshakes may also last a little longer than what you’re used to, and if the person is a friend or someone familiar, they might place their other hand on your shoulder or forearm. It’s a warmth-filled gesture that can feel a little surprising for first-timers but is a sign of friendliness.
For greetings among people who know each other well, it’s common to kiss cheeks three times, starting with the right cheek. This is especially typical in family or social gatherings. If you’re unsure about what to do, it’s perfectly fine to just smile and observe others around you for cues before making a move.
Respect for elders is an important part of Eritrean culture, and when you greet someone older, consider giving a slight nod or bow. Showing this type of respect will go a long way, as elders are highly regarded. Use formal titles like “Ato” for men and “Weizero” for women when addressing someone, especially in formal or business settings.
Dress Codes
Eritrea is considered conservative in terms of how people dress, so it’s best to dress modestly, both in cities and rural areas. For men, long trousers and shirts with sleeves are common, although short-sleeved shirts are also acceptable. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing like low-cut tops or short skirts.
When visiting religious sites, ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. Eritrea’s population is predominantly Christian and Muslim, and both communities place great importance on modesty, particularly in sacred spaces like churches and mosques. Some churches may even ask women to cover their hair, so it’s handy to bring a scarf with you when visiting any religious site.
In urban settings like Asmara, the capital, you might find a more relaxed attitude towards clothing, but it’s still advisable to err on the side of caution. You’ll blend in better if you follow modest dress practices.
Behavior in Social Settings
When you’re invited into someone’s home, Eritrean hospitality will make you feel very welcome. It’s part of the culture to offer guests food and drink as soon as they enter the house. Always accept at least a small portion, even if you’re not hungry—refusing food could be considered rude. If you’re served coffee, it might be part of an elaborate coffee ceremony, which is an important tradition in many homes. The coffee ceremony is a leisurely process, so prepare to sit for a while and enjoy the experience.
When eating, use your right hand to take food, as the left hand is considered unclean in many regions of the country. If you’re dining in a traditional setting, especially when injera, a flatbread, is served, expect to share from a communal plate. It’s a common custom, and sharing is seen as a sign of closeness and friendship.
Don’t be surprised if your host insists on offering you more food even after you’ve said you’re full. This is part of their generous nature, and while you don’t need to keep eating, you can simply express your gratitude politely to break off from the extra offerings.
Religious and Traditional Customs
Religion plays a big part in Eritrean life, with about half the population being Christian (mostly Eritrean Orthodox) and the other half being Muslim. On Fridays, many businesses may close for the Islamic Friday prayer around noon, so keep this in mind when planning your day. Sundays are a day of worship for Christians, and many of the shops and restaurants may either be closed or operate limited hours.
Religious holidays are also important events, and major Christian holidays like Fasika (Easter) or Genna (Christmas) are celebrated with great enthusiasm. If you find yourself in the country during one of these holidays, expect large gatherings, long church services, and, of course, special foods. As a visitor, it’s perfectly fine to observe or participate to some extent, but be sure to follow the behavior of locals and be respectful.
Muslim holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are also widely celebrated, especially in cities like Asmara where you’ll see large prayer gatherings. Again, expect businesses to either close or run limited hours during these times.
Church Etiquette
If you’re visiting an Eritrean Orthodox church, expect to remove your shoes before entering. It is also custom for men and women to sit on opposite sides of the church during services. Services may seem long by Western standards, often lasting several hours, but attending part of one can give you a deep insight into the religious culture of Eritrea.
Mosque Etiquette
When visiting a mosque, it is mandatory to remove your shoes before entering. Women should cover their heads, and men should cover their arms and legs. Entering respectfully is important, and it is best to remain silent or speak in hushed tones when inside a mosque. Non-Muslims are generally allowed to visit certain mosques, but it’s advisable to ask first.
Gender Roles and Relationships
When it comes to interactions between men and women in public, Eritrea is still quite conservative. Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are frowned upon, especially among younger couples. You likely won’t see local couples holding hands or displaying affection openly, so it’s best to keep things low-key.
Same-sex relationships are not openly accepted in Eritrea, and the country’s laws still prohibit homosexual acts. LGBTQ+ travelers might want to be cautious and avoid open discussions or displays of affection for their own safety.
However, friendships between people of the same gender are strong and affectionate. It’s common to see men walking hand in hand or arms around each other, which is simply a sign of friendship with no romantic connotations.
Behavior During Public Events or Gatherings
When attending public events, festivals, or ceremonies, always be mindful of your surroundings. Eritreans are very proud of their culture and traditions, so show respect by observing rather than jumping into the action right away. Take photos only when it’s appropriate, and always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially elders.
It’s also good etiquette not to expect everything to run on time. Things can operate at a slower pace, and schedules in Eritrea are often more flexible. Patience is key! You might need to wait a bit longer than you’re used to before an event starts, but that’s just the pace of life here.
Tipping Culture
Tipping isn’t customary in Eritrea, but it’s always appreciated, especially in urban areas. If you receive good service at a restaurant or from a guide, you can leave a small tip. However, don’t feel obligated to tip in everyday situations such as taxis or smaller family-run eateries.
Practical Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Smile and greet people warmly (using the right hand for handshakes).
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
- Be patient—things can run on “African time.”
- Try and engage in the local coffee ceremony if invited—it’s an unforgettable part of the culture.
Don’t:
- Use your left hand for eating or giving something to someone.
- Take photos of people without their permission.
- Assume that English is widely spoken—many people speak Tigrinya, Arabic, or other local languages.
- Be impatient if things don’t run as quickly as you might expect—go with the flow!
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