jordan pulse -

Dr. Mahmoud Awad Al-Dabbas

The recent encounter between Syrian woman Layal Khairallah and Syria’s new leadership figure, Ahmed Al-Shara, sparked discussion across the Arab world. When Khairallah requested a photo with Al-Shara, he asked her to cover her head, a request she complied with out of respect, later commenting that it was the president's right to present himself as he saw fit.

This incident mirrors a moment in Jordan several years ago when MP Dr. Dima Tahboub chose not to shake King Abdullah’s hand but placed her hand over her heart instead, signalling respect and affection. Tahboub famously said, “We greeted him with our hearts.”

Comparing Two Encounters

In Syria, Khairallah respected the president’s Islamic-influenced approach by covering her head for the photo. In Jordan, the King respected Tahboub’s cultural and personal preference, showing a more moderate and flexible approach to religious customs. Both scenarios reflect different interpretations of Islamic values, whether by the Syrian leadership with its visible religiosity or Jordan’s leadership with its inclusive moderation.

Interestingly, these encounters highlight how Islamic practices influence not only leadership styles but also societal norms. In both Syria and Jordan, the leadership’s approach resonated with segments of their populations that uphold similar Islamic values, especially concerning interactions with women.

A Broader Perspective

These incidents underscore the diversity of women’s roles in Arab societies, shaped by political and cultural contexts. From my experience in political training for women, I’ve seen the challenges men face in navigating greetings with veiled women, unsure whether a handshake would be welcomed. Many women preemptively avoid awkwardness by placing a hand on their chest as a gesture of respect, reflecting the importance of personal agency in such matters.

This diversity, particularly among Jordanian women—where the majority are veiled and prefer not to shake hands—highlights the need for respect and accommodation in political and social settings. Encouraging women’s participation in politics requires understanding and honouring these choices rather than forcing conformity or critiquing their preferences.

Lessons for the Future

In Syria’s evolving leadership, handshakes with women remain taboo. In contrast, Jordan’s leadership provides women the freedom to choose between a handshake or a respectful gesture. Crucially, Jordanian women view their interactions with the King not through formal protocols but as familial bonds, seeing him as a father, brother, or son.

Ultimately, respecting personal and cultural boundaries—whether in politics or daily life—strengthens societal cohesion and supports the meaningful participation of women in shaping the Arab world’s future.