Etiquette in Pakistan

In Pakistan, etiquette, or the code of social behavior that governs human interactions, is largely derived from Islam and focuses on the values commanded by the religion, and has its own cultural etiquette based mainly on South Asian influences.

Introduction and greeting

In contemporary times, the unit-family system is commonly observed, although references to the combined-family system are also prevalent. In this structure, elders are typically esteemed and receive affection and respect from younger individuals, including those who may be unfamiliar to them and encounter one another for the first time in various circumstances.

Visitors are esteemed and treated with respect, and with a sense of connection among relatives, colleagues, friends, and neighbors. It is customary for guests to notify their hosts in advance of their arrival, allowing for minimal disruption to the host's routine.

In formal contexts, it was previously considered rude to introduce yourself to strangers, and therefore generally advisable to ask some mutual acquaintance to introduce you. Strangers will speak with each other in the "formal" register of Urdu, and using the familiar register will be seen as very rude. However, this is not the case in everyday life.

In urban Sindh and other parts of the country, men and women usually lower their heads and lift their hands to their forehead to make the "adab" gesture when greeting each other. Although, the Islamic greeting, "As-salamu alaykum" is generally used in the country, which means 'Peace be upon you'.