Most Algerians practice Islam and, to some extent, it still governs the way they live personally, economically, politically and legally. Islam began in the area that is known as Saudi Arabia today. The Prophet Muhammad is believed to be the last of God’s emissaries after Jesus, Moses, and Abraham to reveal the truth to all of mankind. While Moses presented the Torah and Jesus presented the Bible, Muhammad presented the Quran. The Quran and the Prophet are the basis for all beliefs in the religion.

Muslims must pray 5 times a day. These prayer times are at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset and evening. Prayer times are listed daily in the local newspaper. The Muslim holy day is Friday and no businesses are open that day. Many of them close on Thursday, making a 4 day weekend. The holy month of Ramadan requires all Muslims to fast from sunup to sundown and can only work 6 hours each day. This means no eating, drinking, gum chewing or cigarette smoking.

The family is the most important part of the Algerian social system. It also defines social relations. An individual is always submissive to the family. In Algeria, the family comes above everything. This leads to the concept of honor, which is the foundation of the Algerian society.

Honor is an integral part of the good name or reputation of a family. If someone is an honorable person, their family is also honorable. However, if someone commits a dishonorable act, it brings dishonor upon the entire family. Things that can cause dishonor include insulting, criticizing or otherwise making them uncomfortable.

These things are all very important and revered parts of the Algerian culture. Those visiting this country should keep this in mind and be respectful of all of the customs observed by the native people ling there.

There are customs of meeting and greeting each other in Algeria that are strictly adhered to. In fact, the greeting between people can be a rather lengthy event. There is a handshake followed by asking each other about family, the house, work, the weather and whatever else is relevant. This is considered to be showing concern for others and solidifying a relationship.

Although not required, some people will keep holding hands following the handshake. This is a sign of warmth for each other. Kisses on the cheek are exchanged between family and friends. Women typically nod at first and wait for a hand to be extended. Do not have prolonged eye contact with women, and refrain from asking personal questions of them. Females visiting Algeria should be aware that religious men may not shake hands with them.

Using titles is important due to the society’s hierarchical nature. Try to use the honorific, professional or academic title along with the surname when introduced to someone. These titles may be in either French or Arabic since most citizens speak those languages. The titles of professor, doctor, and lawyer are quite common. Religious scholars may be addressed as Sheikh.

When attempting to cement a relationship in Algeria, gift giving is a very important part of the process. Actually, it is the gesture itself that is more important than the gift. In Algeria, you should bring fruit, flowers, or pastries when invited to someone’s home. Tulips and roses are good gifts to take. Violets, on the other hand, symbolize sadness and should be avoided.

If the household has children, take some something sweet. Find out ahead of time if the family members partake of alcohol before making a gift of it. Gifts are typically not opened when they are first received, and they are presented with the right hand or both hands.