The short answer
Greet everyone with 'salam', bring a small gift such as pastries, tea or sugar, and accept the mint tea you are offered: it is part of the welcome, not an optional politeness. Eat, pass and take things with your right hand, dress modestly, and follow your host's lead on where to sit and when to start.
In more detail
Handshakes are usual between people of the same gender. Across genders, follow the other person's lead and do not offer your hand first if you are unsure.
Tea is a sincere gesture of hospitality, so accept it when you reasonably can. If you genuinely cannot, decline warmly and with thanks. Expect more than one glass, and expect the conversation to take its time.
In a village on an Atlas day trip, families may welcome you into a traditional home to share mint tea and bread baked in a wood oven. Ask before you take photographs of people or inside the house, and thank your hosts with 'shukran' and 'bslama' when you leave.
Accepting an invitation is a real privilege, and your hosts will want you to feel welcome. Eat a little of everything, compliment the food, and do not worry about small mistakes; warmth and good manners count for far more than perfect etiquette.
Good to know
- Bring pastries, tea or sugar as a gift.
- Use your right hand at the table.
- Ask before taking photos inside a home.