Saudi gesture

Can you elborate more -- I didn't get it

I think it means he feels the emotion for whatever you are saying. Its a local gesture to say "that touched my heart"

Yep, seemed fairly obvious but thought I'd ask.  I try never to take things for granted in KSA

i just asked my hubby he said ,it shows the respect towards u 

there are two sides to that coin.

1 - already agreed with the previous comments.

usually after shaking hands one places his palm over his chest/heart. either he is trying to show respect, or you are truly admired and/or respected by that person.

2 - Leave it to me! (you can count on me)

this one is normally a light slap to ones own chest. a person tries to imply that it will surely be taken care of and he will see it through to the very end, and will not let you down. he is trying to show that he is genuinely concerned and will complete the given task at any cost.


Salman

ps:
the second one can be a job, a favor etc..

so... #2 is the opposite of saying 'Inshallah' lol

Thanks, Salman

AC you are quick Observer  -- In a short period you get know the meaning of InshaAllah.

Really people here -- they misuse the word "InshaAllah"

"InshaAllah" Somebody say this word in Stress -- means that He will never think that subject or he is no more concern of that subject

"InshaAllah" Actual meaning is -- If GOD wishes

I don't know about you, Cat, but I had that phrase pegged about 15 minutes after I started work.

If you were a male, Cat, you would see the heart touch quite frequently.

As a female, if a man does this when meeting you, it takes the place of a handshake, as he isn't really supposed to touch you, unless you offer to shake hands first.

The IBM syndrome, INSHAALLAH, BUKRA, & MA'ALESH is very commonly misued by most people in the region, sadly.

I believe they dont really knbow the implications of saying things they do not mean, especially in the Name of God...?

Yep, I did too, MisterStretch.  It's used as a disclaimer.  When somebody says it, it pretty much means that it is.. using a Christian expression .. only by the grace of God that whatever it is will happen/will get done!

When I generally see the gesture is when I'm  talking to Saudi males I know and am saying something sincere.  This gesture, I think, acknowledges my sincerity.