The cultural composition of Afghanistan is ancient, with elements coming from several other peoples, such as the Persians and Indians. Furthermore, the Islamic religion is today the main guide for its customs and traditions.

It is important to highlight that the Taliban’s dominance over Afghanistan is currently restricted to a few areas, and many more radical measures are only practiced where the group prevails. In other regions, women gradually returned to the job market and girls were able to return to school — yet many structural problems persist in the educational system. Clothing that covers the arms and head is still worn (chador) by women, following religious precepts. Men also have a characteristic type of clothing, consisting of a pakul (a hat), baggy pants, a shirt and a vest.

Banquets and traditional dances such as attan, characteristic of the Pashtun, are common during celebrations. Music is another important form of cultural expression for Afghans, as is literature, with emphasis on poetry. Among the country’s traditional sports are buzkashī (practiced collectively, through which individuals must maintain manual control over horses or goats) and martial arts. In gastronomy, one of the typical dishes of Afghanistan is kabuli palau, made with rice, chicken, carrots, almonds and raisins.