Use the phrase “As-Salam-u-Alaikum”, which means “Peace be unto you”. [2] X Research source This phrase is pronounced “us-saa-laam-muu-alie-kum. ”
As-Salāmu alayk(a): use when greeting one male As-Salāmu alayk(i): use when greeting one female As-Salāmu alayk(umā): use when greeting two people of any gender As-Salāmu alayk(unna): use when greeting multiple females only’ As-Salāmu `alayk(umu): use when greeting a group of three or more people, where at least one is a male or if you are meeting a member of state such as a prime minister, president, king, etc.
It is customary in Pakistan to need less personal space than many western cultures require, so don’t be surprised or back away if people stand very close to you while in a meeting. Only exchange business cards with either the right hand or with both hands. Never use the left hand, as this is considered extremely rude. Make sure your business card lists your title and any advanced degrees in order to show your status. If you are given a business card, be sure to show respect by studying the card and admiring their position and degrees before you place it into your cardholder.
Men typically shake hands with one another, and hugs are also common between Muslim and non-Muslim men if they have developed a relationship. Women will rarely hug or shake hands with men; however, some women in the middle and upper classes have adopted wearing gloves in order to bypass the strict law that says women can only make physical contact with male members of their family.
The person who arrives greets the Muslims that are present. The person who is riding greets the one who is walking. The person who is walking greets the one who is sitting. The smaller group greets the bigger group. The young greet the elders present.
Respond with “wa Alaikum Assalam wa Rahmatullah,” which means “May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you. " This phrase is pronounced: “waa-alie-kum-us-salam waa-rah-ma-tull-la-he. "
