I would have asked: How do you want to be greeted then? I am still confused. New here so I am asking for help.

I heard a little girl today who was obviously new to the Middle East, shout out, 'look mummy, look at the Shepherds'. The local men just laughed and said thank you to the Mum.

You met a bad tempered person, let it be. As we say in the US, sh#t happens. Thanks for being nice.