Arabs are known for their discipline and high respect about their heritage which explains why they act conservative. Expatriates who will have an encounter with an Arab must know gestures/attitudes that Arabs find disrespectful to avoid misunderstanding.

With these, Emirates 24/7 has posted a report entitled “Mind the Culture Gap” which contains tips to non-Arab expatriates on how to deal with Emiratis and other Arab citizens.

•  Do not Cross Your Legs – Arabs find discomfort, perhaps even distaste when an expatriatescross their legs since it may symbolize, in body language terms, an accusing or threatening weapon. It could also indicate that you are feeling impatient – a social crime in the Gulf.
   
• Shway shway (slowly)- When an Arab makes a gesture of drawing his ingers of the right hand into a steeple, gently bringing the hand down a few inches once or twice, or perhaps just gently wagging the steepled fingers a little. It means ‘little, little’, i.e. ‘Slow down a bit; be gentle; be patient.’ On the road, truck and other drivers, will make the gesture through the vehicle’s side window to other drivers, which means: ‘Please let me in’ or ‘Please let me change lanes’.
  
•  Sense of humor – Sense of humor can build a good relationship between an expatriates and an Arab. However, an expatriate much watch of his jokes. Never belittle or make fun of Arabs for it may come across as rude.
   
• Judging and Trusting You- Almost all Arabs can quickly notice, and see through, false or shallow ‘friendship’ sought or maintained simply to advance commercial interests or similar. To have a good relationship with Arab, one must always be true to himself and always honest about his intentions.
  
• Beckoning with fingers – According to the report, to ask someone to approach you by beckoning with the upright forefinger is distinctly rude, as is the defiant gesture of disapproval indicated by the raising of a digit finger from a clasped fist on an extended arm.