Current Time in Hama
Syrian culture regarding time
Syrian culture regarding time
Flexible sense of time is common
In Syria, people have a relatively flexible attitude toward the time of appointments and schedules, and being a few minutes late is often not considered a problem, and being on time is not important, especially among close friends.
Islamic prayer times are the standard of daily life
Five prayers a day are important, and time management is often organized around these prayer times. Even during business breaks, people may pause for prayer.
Meetings and gatherings have a relaxed start time
Even official events often start later than the scheduled time, and the culture of "starting after gathering" is deeply rooted. The basic attitude is to proceed without rushing.
Syrian values regarding time
Sociability is valued, and time is tolerant
There is a culture that values connections with people, and immediate relationships and conversations take priority over plans. Being too concerned about time can be seen as rude.
Time management according to worship and traditional events
Important events such as religious events and family gatherings are often held at specific times, and people tend to adjust their entire lives accordingly.
Daytime activities may be avoided
As it gets particularly hot in the summer, people refrain from daytime activities and tend to go out and work in the early morning or evening, and there is a large difference in behavior patterns depending on the time of day.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Syria
Be prepared to be flexible about appointments
Even if you have a meeting or visit scheduled, the other party may not always show up on time, so you need to be flexible even if they are late. The trick is to not get annoyed.
Public institutions and facilities are relatively punctual
Government offices, some companies, banks, etc. are relatively punctual, and reception hours and deadlines are strictly adhered to. It is safe to be punctual when visiting for business purposes.
Lifestyle changes drastically during the fasting month (Ramadan)
Daytime activities are restricted and people become more active after dusk, so it is advisable to adjust visits and business meetings to suit those times.
Sense of time varies by person and place
Attitudes towards time differ between urban and rural areas, religions, family structures, etc., so it is best to act in accordance with the other person at first.
Interesting trivia about time in Syria
There is an expression called "Arab time"
In Arab countries, including Syria, there is an expression called "Arab time," which means "being late is a given," and this symbolizes a relaxed attitude towards time.
"Nights are more lively" during Ramadan
During the fasting month, there is a culture of having iftar (a meal) after sunset, and the city becomes lively at night. It is common for food stalls and shops to stay open until late at night.
Cultural background of determining time by the position of the sun
Historically, there was a tradition of determining time by the position of the sun and the length of shadow even before the widespread use of clocks, and this value of emphasizing harmony with nature remains even today.