Northern Africa and the Middle East

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to wear any specific clothing, such as a head covering (for women), when you visit NAME?

In many areas, it is not required for Western men or women to conform to a dress code. Out of respect for the culture, many workers choose to dress as the local population. Saudi Arabia is the only country that requires Western women to fully cover.

Speaking of covering, what is that head cover called?

The head covering is officially called a hijab (hee-JAB), although each country may have a different individual term for it. (Hijab is the Arabic word for "cover" and stems from a root verb which means "to veil" or "to screen".) The facial covering that may accompany the hijab is called a niqab (nee-KAB), and is available in half versions (leaving the eyes exposed) and full versions (fully covering the face).

Is it dangerous to travel in NAME?

Most of the countries in NAME are extremely safe, even more so than the United States. People are usually very friendly and hospitable. In some places, it pays to be cautious – the same as when traveling in the US.

What do the people eat?

The food is very good. The general pallette consists of rice, meats (generally lamb or chicken), fresh vegetables and fruits.

How about a mosque? Have you ever been in one?

There are many beautiful mosques open to tourists. Most mosques require visitors to remove one's shoes upon entering, out of respect.

What does the inside of a mosque look like?

The main room where prayers are offered is a large, open space. The men are allowed to pray in the main prayer hall, while women are generally required to pray in a partitioned area or separate room. The prayer hall is devoid of furniture, since bowing and prostration is a part of Muslim prayer and men sit on the floor during teaching.

I've heard that all mosques face towards Mecca. Is that true?

Yes. Inside the prayer hall of the mosque is a wall called the qibla wall, which is aligned towards the Muslim holy city of Mecca, in Saudi Arabia. In the center of the qibla (KIB-lah) is an inset niche or depression called the mihrab (mihh-RAB), which indicates the direction towards Mecca.

How do Muslims treat their children?

Children are considered special gifts and are treated very well, not only by families but by the community. It isn't unusual for a stranger to stop and help a child or even correct someone else's children when the parent is not around. For instance, when dining out as a family don't be surprised if your child is given a "tour" of the restaurant and kitchen – without you! Wait staff love to greet, hold, and entertain children.

Have you ever ridden a camel? What is it like?

Riding a camel is a unique experience. While it may be fun at first, it takes an experienced derrière to ride a camel for an extended period of time. Getting on and off the camel for the first time can take most people by surprise; it's similar to being on a roller coaster. Unlike horses, camels are less comfortable to ride when they run.

Further Discovery

• Fast Facts about NAME
• Religions of NAME
• Peoples of NAME
• Countries of NAME

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