Man greeting Man - Men usually greet one another using the phrase ‘Salaamu Aleikum’ (it means peace be upon you).  The appropriate response is Wa'aleikum as-salamma, which means and on peace be you.  This is accompanied by a warm handshake (always use the right hand). Handshakes usually linger a bit.  When greeting a good friend or someone familiar, a series of between three and five kisses to the cheek will be included in the introduction. (See note below)

Woman greeting Woman - Women greet each other in a similar manner to men.  Handshakes(always use the right hand) and kisses are common.  During initial meetings, a verbal greeting is also acceptable for many people.

Man greeting Woman - Social interactions between non-related members of the opposite sex are not frequent, so as a result the handshake will usually not be included in the introduction.  You will be able to tell if the person you are being introduced to is leery of a handshake as they will fold their hand up and across their chest to let you know they do not intend to shake hands.  Always wait for the woman to initiate, if at all. 

Note: When greeting a good friend or someone familiar, a series of between three and five kisses to the cheek will be included in the introduction.  The timing and number of kisses (only done between members of the same sex) can actually indicate the region, family, or tribe that the people belong to.  The first kiss in the sequence is always given to the other person’s left cheek.  The following two to four kisses occur on the right cheek of the person you are greeting.  

During this greeting sequence, other phrases and questions will be asked, including ‘Shu Akhbarak, Shlonak, Keif Halak, and Keif Sahhtak’.  These phrases literally translate to what is your news, what is your color, how are you, and how is your health.  These more familiar greetings only happen between friends and family members of the same sex.  

It is also important to note that when meeting a group of people, greetings start with the person on the right, and continue on to the last person on the left.