- Don’t disrespect Islam or its prophets especially Prophet Muhammad PBUH, it can get anyone in trouble even if you apologise and take it back. Suspected of being disrespectful or being accused can land you in hot waters.
- Don’t talk against Pak Army or Intelligence Agency of Pakistan. As many people have families or relatives serving in the army and general sentiment of the people is with them.
- Don’t shake hands with opposite sex. It more of problem when men do it. Instead of shaking hand just start with ‘Assalam-u-Alaikum’ when meeting them. In urban areas of Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, within few circles, it’s okay to shake hands. But it is better to greet verbally.
- If you’re a woman, don’t wear revealing clothing, not even in the most liberal of areas. Avoid dresses that show belly or with deep neckline. Don’t show cleavage, it is frowned upon. It is okay to wear jeans and t shirt in cities and many touristic areas.
- For women/ girls having a duppatta(Scarf/Shawl) to cover head and/or upper body (mostly just chest) is important when travelling to remote valleys including all of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and all remote regions in other provinces.
- Public display of affection is not allowed. Avoid holding hands, hugging or kissing as it will be very awkward. Even if you are with husband or wife people will stop and stare. And they might ask you to stop or leave the area.
- Men shouldn’t go shirtless or walk naked in Pakistan or in your underwear or short shorts.
- Don’t call Pakistani people terrorist because that would end up in a heated debate.
- Don’t ask for wine or bear openly because it is considered haram (prohibited by Islam) and not available everywhere . And also avoid drinking in public areas because people will start judging you. There are few bars and shops that have the licence to serve alcohol to non-Muslims.
- Like all religious places you have to dress appropriately when visiting Mosques. Don’t go inside the praying area with shoes on. Women can’t visit local mosque because some will find it disrespectful. But if you ask permission of the Mosque’s Imam or caretaker they will most probably allow you to visit and take pictures. Some mosque like Badshahi mosque, Wazir Khan Mosque in Lahore, Shah Faisal Mosque allow everyone irrespective of gender or religion.
- Many Muslims men keep a long beard because Prophet Muhammad had beard. Don’t disrespect their beard by making fun of it and never ask them to cut or shave it.
- Never abuse the founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah also known as Quaid-e-Azam, he may be the only politician that is off limits. Political discussions are common topic among people.
- Comply with the police in a polite manner.
- No skinny dipping.
- Dating is very private and don’t approach random girl or boy in public. Don’t ask them out in public.
It is a long list and might seem too much but most of it depends on where in the country you are and what kind of people are with you. It is better to minimise risks.
No skinny dipping? 😀