SAUDI STYLE MAJLIS

Majlis is the Arabic term for living room (or sitting room), salon, or parlor.  It also can refer to the Saudi style seating.  The term actually means "council," which can describe business, social or religious gatherings. Red geometric patterns are often used to cover the cushions which are placed on the floor usually against the walls. Many homes have a room designated for the majlis and it is sometimes called the Bedouin room.  Saudis are known for their warm and generous hospitality.

 

THIS AND THAT

GATHERING PLACE IN AL BALAD

CHOOSE YOUR NUTS, MAKE YOUR OWN FRESH BUTTER

ROADSIDE SHOP IN SAUDI ARABIA

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CDP Theme Day: Photo of the Year

It's always difficult to choose my favorite photo from the past year, as I'm sure it is for other bloggers who participate in City Daily Photo's Theme Days.  City Daily Photo is an online community of photo bloggers from around the world who share images from their cities.  The first day of each month is Theme Day - this month's theme is our favorite "Photo of the Year." 

I like to choose photos with people in them - maybe because so many of my photos don't have people in them.  It's gotten better in the past few years because of the popular use of camera phones, but there is somewhat of a stigma in Saudi Arabia of taking photos of people in this culture, especially of women.  I also like to choose photos that show a slice of life, a slice of culture - and I think this photo fits the bill. 

It was taken one evening as I walked through the oldest part of Jeddah called Al Balad.  This group of men probably gets together each evening to socialize and play games. 

Please visit City Daily Photo's portal to view the other entries in this month's Theme Day.  I'm sure you won't be disappointed.   

Jeddah: Evening Social Life in Al Balad

It's a man's world in Saudi Arabia - and men here are generally very sociable.  I took this photo one evening down in Jeddah's historic district of Al Balad, amidst the aging buildings.  These men had gathered on the sidewalk to visit, drink tea, and play games of dominoes or cards.  I love seeing the sandals off to the side of the large carpet where they sit and enjoy themselves.