All About Bedouins in the Middle East

Most Bedouins speak Arabic and identify as Sunni Muslims, generally observing Muslim holidays and traditions. Bedouin society is tribal and patriarchal, with men generally taking on a more public role, while women have a more private presence in the community. When Bedouins were truly nomadic, they lived in tents, which were divided into two sections. One area was for men and their guests, and the other section was for women, which served as a reception area for female guests, and the space where meals were prepared. Bedouin camps vary in size, with anywhere from several to fifteen tents, depending on the family and community.  

The traditional Bedouin diet consisted of meat, milk and dairy products, plus bread, rice, dates and beans. Bedouin meals are generally prepared over an open fire, and eating is generally a communal event. In addition to coffee, tea is an especially important part of Bedouin culture and social life. Tea is often served as a welcome offering for guests, and while it is a simple (yet strong) mix of black tea leaves and sugar, sometimes sage, mint, cardamom and cinnamon are added for extra flavor.