Which gesture is commonly accepted as welcoming across most cultures?

A warm smile is widely recognized as a welcoming gesture across many cultures because it conveys friendliness, approachability, and openness. Smiling is a universal expression of goodwill and can put others at ease, creating a positive atmosphere for interactions. Unlike gestures that may vary in meaning or acceptance across different cultures—such as a firm handshake, which can be seen as assertive in some cultures but inappropriate in others—a smile generally transcends cultural barriers, making it a safe and effective way to convey warmth and welcome.

In contrast, a firm handshake may not be universally accepted; in some cultures, handshakes are not customary or vary in context. Pointing towards someone can be seen as rude or disrespectful in certain cultures. Crossing arms often signals defensiveness or disinterest, which counteracts the intention of making someone feel welcomed. Therefore, a warm smile stands out as the most universally accepted gesture for welcoming others.