Manners in Afghanistan

Greetings

Always remove shoes when visiting and avoid pointing shoe soles toward others at the entrance
Food is generally taken with the right hand; the left hand is considered impure
Men should avoid initiating handshakes or direct eye contact with women
Exercise caution with political and religious topics; mocking the Prophet or tribes is strictly forbidden
Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking in public places
Always obtain permission from the individual or household head before taking photographs
Remove hats inside mosques and refrain from photography
Politely decline once when invited to a meal, then accept when urged
Wait for elders to begin eating as a sign of respect
In tribal societies, greeting elders takes priority