Rub’ al Khali, – the Empty Quarter Wilfred Thesiger, an English explorer and travel writer, is renowned for his expeditions into some of the world’s most remote and inhospitable regions. Among his most famous journeys was his exploration of the Rub’ al Khali, or the Empty Quarter, the largest continuous sand desert in the world. Thesiger’s fascination with the Arabian desert began during his service in the Middle East during World War II. After the war, he returned to the region to explore the deserts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. In 1946, he embarked on his first journe ..read more

Here’s a list of some common Arabic cuisine words that are likely to be known by individuals familiar with Middle Eastern and North African foods: Mezze (مزة): Assortment of small dishes served as appetizers. Hummus (حمص): Chickpea-based dip. Falafel (فلافل): Deep-fried chickpea or fava bean patties. Shawarma (شاورما): Grilled and shaved meat, often served in a wrap. Kebab (كباب): Grilled skewers of meat, usually marinated. Tabbouleh (تبولة): Salad made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and bulgur. Baba Ganoush (بابا غنوج): Roasted eggplant dip. Dolma (دولمة): Grape leaves st ..read more

Learners as active participants We are often asked what is the teaching / learning method used in Arabiconline.eu. The pedagogical approach of ArabicOnline.eu can be described as a cognitive constructivist approach to learning. This approach sees learning as an active process and learners as active participants in the process. This approach is similar to discovery learning, a method that places emphasis on student engagement, critical thinking and the enjoyment of self-discovery. This pedagogical philosophy stands in stark contrast to traditional rote memorization as it encourages student ..read more

Arabic tiles, also known as Islamic tiles, are fascinating examples of the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Arab world. These tiles are renowned for their intricate geometric patterns, vibrant colours and precise craftsmanship, which make them an enduring symbol of Islamic art. The history of Arabic tiles can be traced back to the Islamic Golden Age, which flourished from the 8th to the 15th centuries. During this period, Islamic civilisation witnessed remarkable advancements in art, mathematics, and architecture. Islamic artists and craftsmen drew inspiration from nature ..read more

Desalination –  a critical technology The Middle East has long faced water scarcity challenges. These are due to an arid climate and limited freshwater resources. However, the process of desalination is providing a promising solution to meet growing water demands. Desalination has emerged as a critical technology by transforming seawater into drinking water. Desalination plants have become the backbone of water supply systems in many Middle Eastern countries and provide a lifeline for millions of people. The abundance of seawater along the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea offers an ..read more

Arabian horses are known for their grace, elegance, and rich cultural heritage. They have fascinated people for centuries.  Originating from the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabian horse is one of the oldest and most influential horse breeds in existence. Their lineage can be traced back more than 4,500 years. Evidence of their existence can be found in ancient rock art and inscriptions. This breed played a vital role in the development of other horse breeds and contributed to their refined appearance, endurance and spirit. Arabian horses are easily recognisable due to their unique physical tr ..read more

The Middle East has long been a region rich in history and culture with natural untouched landscapes. While exploration has traditionally been dominated by male adventurers, there have been numerous brave and trailblazing women who have ventured into the region, breaking barriers and leaving their mark. In this article, we will focus on the achievements of some remarkable female explorers in the Middle East. Gertrude Bell  Gertrude Bell, (photo above) often referred to as the “Queen of the Desert,” was a pioneering British explorer, archaeologist, and writer. She explored the Middle East ..read more

majlis  المجلس,  is an Arabic term meaning “sitting room” Nestled at the heart of Arabian culture and hospitality lies the Arabian majlis  – a space that transcends mere architecture and serves as a sanctuary for communal bonding and tradition. This culturally significant room has deep-rooted historical significance. It has acted for centuries as a place for people to gather, converse, and share stories. The majlis often characterised by its opulent yet welcoming atmosphere, draws inspiration from the region’s rich history and nomadic lifestyle. Traditionally adorned with intric ..read more

it’s important to be respectful and considerate of the religious and cultural customs observed within the mosque. Here are some guidelines on how to behave appropriately: Dress modestly and remove your shoes Both men and women should dress modestly when visiting a mosque. Women are usually required to cover their hair with a headscarf and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Menn should wear long pants and avoid sleeveless shirts. Mosques typically require visitors to remove their shoes before entering. Look for a designated area or shoe rack where you can place your sh ..read more

Anybody who moves to an Arab country will sooner or later come across the expression wasta or that somebody has wasta and can get things done. In the Arab world, the term wasta holds significant cultural and social implications. Wasta is a colloquial expression that is prevalent in Arab societies. It represents the practice of using personal connections or influential relationships to gain advantages, favours, or even shortcuts past administrative roadblocks. These can include securing employment, accessing services, obtaining permits or even bypassing bureaucratic hurdles. Wasta is ..read more