Meeting and Greeting

When meeting someone in a business or official context always shake hands. As a male you should wait to see if women extend their hands, if they do not, then simply nod your head and smile.

The most common greeting in Iran is 'salam' which originates from the Islamic greeting 'Asalamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). One would also reply with 'salam'.

When departing, Iranians will generally usually use, 'khoda-hafez' (may God preserve you).

When doing business in Iran, stick to formalities. Once a relationship has been established your Iranian counterpart will quickly start to address you with your first name. Men are addressed with 'agha' proceeded by the surname. So, Alan Jones will be 'Agha-ye Jones'. With women you would use 'khanoom'. So, Samantha Jones will be 'khanoom-e Jones'. Professionals with titles will be addressed similarly, for example, 'Doctor-e Jones'.