You can give a variety of things as gifts to Muslim friend, and colleagues. If you are planning to give them a food-related gift keep in mind “halal” and “haraam”. Avoid food if you are not sure that the type of food that you would like to buy is permitted in the Muslim diet. Alcohol is “haraam” and is insulting if you offer it to a Muslim as a gift. Avoid perfumes as they also contain alcohol, and are not a good choice as a gift. Also, avoid any gift that includes a representation of the human body. For little girls, avoid buying dolls in a swimsuit or short dresses. If you would like to give candies as a gift make sure that they do not contain alcohol or gelatine (unless it’s kosher/halal, i.e., non-pork based) which is also found in marshmallows, gums, and chewy candies like taffy, gummy bears and jelly beans. It is important for Muslims that one respects their privacy and modesty, so avoid giving clothes or other personal items (such as make up) as gifts, especially if you are not particularly close to the person. Always give your gift to a Muslim friend or colleague with both hands or with your right hand. Giving a gift with the left hand is regarded as insulting.
