Bedouin Society: Structure & Hierarchy

In his seminal work “The Arab Of The Desert,” H.R.P. Dickson provides a thorough and detailed account of the Bedouin Arabs, particularly those inhabiting the regions in and around Kuwait in the early 20th century. His writing delves into the intricate social system of the Bedouin, shedding light on their unique way of life that … Read more

Between Tradition & Modernity: Gerturde Bell on Jordan’s Bedouin

In the early 20th century, Gertrude Bell, a renowned British writer and explorer, vividly captured the essence of her experiences in the tribal lands of Jordan. One particularly evocative account details her visit to a Bedouin sheikh’s tent, Fellah Al Issa, in the Balqa region, an encounter that elegantly illustrates the cultural and social norms … Read more

John Keane’s Mecca Pilgrimage: Cultural & Spiritual Insights

In the realm of Islamic tradition and historical travel literature, John Keane’s “My Journey to Medinah” stands as a captivating memoir that chronicles the profound journey of an English traveller through the heart of the Islamic world. Keane, living between 1854 and 1937, ventured far beyond the familiar boundaries of his native England to immerse … Read more

Lady Anne Blunt Jordan Desert Trek

“A Pilgrimage To Nejd” by Lady Anne Blunt stands as a captivating account of her journey through the Arabian Peninsula in the mid-19th century. This book is a rich tapestry woven with the threads of cultural encounters, geographical explorations, and the socio-political dynamics of a region little known to the Western world at that time. … Read more

Ibn Saud’s Prelude to War 1918

In his seminal work “Arabia”, St. John Philby provides an intricate portrayal of his experiences and observations in early 20th century Saudi Arabia, shedding light on the cultural, political, and environmental landscapes of the region. Through his narrative, Philby unveils the complexities of life in the Wahhabi capital during the holy month of Ramdhan, offering … Read more

Tribal Hospitality Laws in Western Iran: Freya Stark

In her seminal work “The Valley of the Assassins,” Freya Stark provides an evocative and insightful account of her travels through the tribal regions of Western Iran. Her narrative contains an exploration of nomadic hospitality, deeply rooted in the axioms and traditions of the lands she traverses. Stark notes the precariousness of arriving at a … Read more