Saudi Arabia and A Traditional Hijaz Dish – Seleek

I’ve always enjoyed when learning how to prepare traditional dishes from my lovely Mother-in-Law, Mama Moudy, the history behind these dishes.  So for this post it is my pleasure to share some more Mama Moudy history and a tasty recipe for the traditional Saudi dish called Seleek.
Seleek, like many of the traditional Saudi main courses, [...]

Saudis and Privacy – Taking it too Far?

When I had my mastectomy one year ago due to breast cancer, I had no problems in discussing and sharing my experience with anyone who wanted to know.  I attribute my forthrightness in this regard to being an American and having grown up in an environment where illness is a fact of life and not [...]

Saudi Marriages: A Bi-Cultural Couple Speak Out

An Australian woman and her Saudi husband have kindly allowed me to interview them about their relationship, bi-cultural experiences and future plans.
To begin with, let’s start with Mohammed.  When did you arrive in Australia?  And what brought you to Australia?

July 2007. I came to study my Masters Degree.
Is this your first time to [...]

Saudi Arabia: H1N1 and Impact on Hajj

On 3 June, the first case of the H1N1 flu was reported in Saudi Arabia and was brought to the Kingdom by a Filipine nurse who had arrived back to the Kingdom after having been on holiday.  Shortly thereafter additional cases were reported.  Of most concern was a Saudi family who was diagnosed with the [...]

Saudi Arabia: Is the Burka and Headcover a Sign of Fanaticism Islam?

I was recently watching news on CNN which was discussing Muslim women who wear the burka (ie, abaya) and headcover and whether such attire was a sign of fanaticism Islam.  The reporter specifically mentioned movements in France, Turkey and Netherlands as well as elsewhere in Europe to make Islamic wear such as an abaya, burka, [...]

Saudis Like Their Lamb

If you are fortunate to be invited to the home of a Saudi for a meal, in all likelihood you will be served some type of dish containing lamb.  In my experience lamb seems to be the favored meat of Saudis.  Lamb will be prepared grilled, baked, fried, boiled and presented in a variety of [...]

June Saudi Fun Quiz is Ready

The June 2009 Saudi Fun Quiz is ready.  You can either click this link or visit it from our Quiz page.   Just a little hint, you may want to review the June monthly posts first!
Good luck and enjoy!

Saudi Arabia and Popularity of Henna

Henna is very popular in Saudi Arabia among both men and women.  Women will use henna to make exquisite designs on their hands, arms and feet for special occasions such as weddings and during the two Eid’s.  Henna is also used by both men and women for the hair as well.
However if you are not [...]

Saudi Arabia and Thoughts of Independence

Today is Independence day in America.  This is the day that Americans will rejoice in the freedom and democracy that is the right of every American citizen.  It is also my first Independence Day in America for quite some time.  The last three had been in Saudi Arabia and prior to that in Pakistan.  As [...]

So You Think YOU Can Dance, Saudi Style

In the United States there is a popular show on TV called “So You Think You Can Dance.”  Contestants who believe they have a natural dancing talent will audition.  If they are selected, then they will compete against a group of other dancers demonstrating their ability to dance from hip hop to classical dance routines.  [...]