“My respects” and similar words instead of salam

Question

What is the ruling on using the words “My respects” and other similar words instead of salam with a non-Muslim, out of expediency (maslaha) — for example, with a doctor, a leader or an amir, so as to avoid his thinking one ill-mannered and uncouth, or because of acquaintance, or for some other such reason?

Answer

There is latitude for it.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

Preview. The full text opens with JavaScript enabled.