Ahoy Crew,

Today we’re setting out to explore something extra special—not a place, but a feeling.

Across the deserts, cities, and coastlines of Saudi Arabia, there are three things that shine through everywhere you go: hospitality, tradition, and artful expression.

Let’s dive into three important parts of Arabic culture that make it so rich, warm, and unforgettable.

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☕ 1. Hospitality: A Cup of Tea and a Big Smile

In many Arabic countries, hospitality is everything. Guests are treated with deep respect, even if they’re total strangers. And it all starts with this magical sentence:

“Ahlan wa sahlan!” (Welcome!)

Here’s what often happens when you visit someone’s home:

• You’re greeted with dates and a cup of Arabic coffee or sweet mint tea.
• You’re invited to sit in the most comfortable spot.
• You’re offered more food than you can eat, and told to take seconds (and thirds!).

In the desert, where resources are scarce, sharing is sacred. Even a tent in the sand might open its flaps to a passing traveler, just to offer a warm drink and kind company.

Kindness is the culture.

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👗 2. Traditional Dress: Cool, Comfortable, and Beautiful

In Saudi Arabia, traditional clothes aren’t just stylish—they’re smart for the environment too!

For men:

• Thobe (or dishdasha): a long white robe that protects from sun and heat.
• Ghutra or Shemagh: a headscarf, often held in place with a black cord called an agal.

For women:

• Abaya: a flowing black robe often paired with a hijab (headscarf).
• Today, many abayas come in different styles and colors—some are even embroidered with flowers or patterns.

These clothes help people stay cool, keep sand away, and still look super elegant—like desert royalty!

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✒️ 3. Arabic Calligraphy: Words That Dance on the Page

Arabic writing is not just a way to spell—it’s an art form.

Arabic is written from right to left, and each letter changes shape depending on where it is in a word. This lets artists turn words into flowing, curvy, beautiful designs.

Some calligraphy is:

• Painted on walls and ceilings of mosques
• Used in books and poems
• Even carved into stone!

Words like “peace,” “hope,” and “love” are turned into swirls and curves that look almost like they’re dancing.

Try this: write your name in big, curvy letters—can you turn it into art like Arabic calligraphy?

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🎨 Fun Activity for the Crew

• 🫖 Host a “tea and dates” party at home. Offer your guests a warm drink and let them sit in the comfiest spot!
• 🧣 Try designing your own robe or scarf with patterns you love.
• ✏️ Practice drawing loops and swirls—can you turn a word into something beautiful?

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Arabic culture reminds us that being generous, honoring tradition, and finding beauty in every detail is something to celebrate—whether in the middle of the desert or right at home.