Differences in body language in Arab and Western countries
Body language can be very different between cultures, and it can also be a source of misunderstandings between Arabs and Western societies. Distance between people when talking to each other Westerners frequently stand further away from each other, whereas Arabs...
Benefits of camel milk
Camel milk has for many centuries been an important source of nutrition for Nomads living in harsh desert environments. However, camel milk is now commercially produced and sold. It has recently gained attention as a health food in more developed countries. It is also...
Driving and driving behaviour in some Arab countries
Erratic driving behaviour Driving in some Arab countries can be an interesting experience for visitors who are not used to erratic driving behaviour. Do not expect drivers to stick to any rules or speed limits, use an indicator or have any regard for other drivers....
The impact of coronavirus on Ramadan
During Ramadan 1.8 billion Muslims around the world are observing the month-long spiritual contemplation unlike ever before. Coronavirus has forced the hands of governments, with traditions that have stood for centuries unable to be observed due to...
Teaching Arabic in UK schools (Part 3)
Where could we go next? Language Ambassadors for Arabic In order to garner interest in learning Arabic for both students and schools, we need to raise awareness of this amazing language. Perhaps current university students of Arabic could act as ambassadors by...
Teaching Arabic in UK Schools (Part 2)
Part 2: Why don’t we teach Arabic in UK schools? In our current global climate, it seems increasingly evident that British schools could benefit by branching out from the classic language offerings of French, German and Spanish. With 1.2 billion native speakers of...
Teaching Arabic in UK Schools ( Part 1 )
Why should we teach Arabic in schools? In our current global climate, it seems increasingly evident that British schools could benefit by branching out from the classic language offerings of French, German and Spanish. With 1.2 billion native speakers of Mandarin and...
Tree of Life in Bahrain – a symbol of hope
Flourishing in the middle of the desert The Tree of Life (Shajarat-al-Hayat) is located in Bahrain. It is on a hill in a barren area of the Arabian Desert, 40 kilometres from Manama. This enormous abundantly green tree (Prosopis cineraria) is almost 10m high and over...
Find someone to practise your Arabic with
Just by speaking to real people, your confidence comes on in leaps and bounds. In our interconnected world, it is easier than you might expect to find a language partner. Taxi Drivers In my experience, taxi drivers are always happy to exchange words in their language...
