Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
Nestled in the waters of the Persian Gulf, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s strategic significance has transcended centuries, evolving from a vital trade hub and pearling centre to a modern state. The path to its sovereignty in 1971, transitioning from a British protectorate, is a tale woven with the threads of local aspirations, regional politics, and … Read more
In his pioneering work, “The Arab of the Desert,” H.R.P. Dickson offers an intricate and vivid portrayal of the bedouin people, an indigenous nomadic group inhabiting the areas around Kuwait and the broader Arabian Peninsula in the early 20th century. This ethnographic masterpiece delves into the nuanced and complex tapestry of their lives, beliefs, and … Read more
Historically, the tiny nation of Kuwait was not known for its oil, but for a different kind of treasure – pearls. Long before black gold began to flow from the sands of the Arabian Peninsula, pearl diving was a critical element of Kuwaiti culture and the backbone of its economy. The pristine waters of the … Read more
Lady Anne Blunt’s travel memoir, “Pilgrimage To Nejd,” , one of her most famous books, offers a fascinating glimpse into her experiences during her journey in Nejd. As the daughter of Lord Byron and wife of Wilfrid Scawen Blunt, Lady Anne Blunt’s observations and encounters with the people of Nejd provide valuable insights into the … Read more
Few travel narratives capture the essence of adventure and cultural immersion as vividly as Lady Anne Blunt’s odyssey through the Jordanian desert, a focal narrative in her work, “A Pilgrimage to Nejd.” Lady Blunt’s journey, characterised by encounters with the diverse tribes of the Arabian Peninsula and the challenging elements of the desert, serves as … Read more
The Battle of Aqaba was a watershed moment during World War I, an event that highlighted the falling fortunes of the Ottoman Empire and the ascendant strength of the Arab Revolt. Occurring on July 6, 1917, this pivotal battle took place in the port city of Aqaba, situated at the forefront of the Red Sea. … Read more