Manners in Ethiopia

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Africa / Eastern Africa

Greetings

  • Handshake
  • Handshake with right hand and shoulder touch
  • Three-cheek greeting

Etiquette

  • Customary to remove shoes before entering homes
  • Use only the right hand when eating from communal plates
  • Wait for elders to start eating first during meals
  • "Gursha" custom involves feeding the first injera to guests
  • Bargaining is common practice in markets
  • Photography should avoid military facilities and police; obtain permission for people
  • Be considerate of fasting periods and prohibition of animal products on Fridays and Wednesdays
  • Use respectful titles like "Aba" (father) and "Immum" (mother) for elders
  • Public displays of affection are discouraged
  • Time is somewhat flexible, called "Ethiopian time"
  • Handing items with the left hand is considered impolite
  • Coffee ceremony is the greatest sign of hospitality
  • Women should avoid revealing clothing in rural areas
  • Remove hats and shoes at religious sites and observe photography restrictions
  • Respect fasting Muslims during Ramadan

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