Saudi Arabia is home to several Arab groups. The Arab culture arose from the tribes of nomads and villagers who lived in the Arabian Desert. Arabs eventually spread throughout the Middle East and northern Africa, leading to the expansion of the Arab world.
The Hijazi Arabs (also known as the Saudi Arabs) live predominantly along the Red Sea coast and in major urban areas. They speak a language called Arabiya (or Hijazi Arabic).
Though most of the Hijazi speakers live in Saudi Arabia, some have migrated to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
In accordance with their Muslim religion, Hijazi Arab marriages are typically endogamous, which means that they only marry within a small social circle. Inheritance is patrilineal (passed down from fathers to their sons). Hijazi Arab clothing is designed for the harsh desert climate. It is made of lightweight, light-colored fabric and is also loose-fitting, allowing for the circulation of air.
In the past, the Hijazi Arabs considered it shameful and degrading to engage in manual labor. In recent years, they have begun accepting low-paying jobs in order to gain access to medical facilities and better housing. Nevertheless, most of Hijazi Arabs still despise such positions.
Being Muslim, Hijazi Arabs follow the teachings of the prophet Mohammed. They believe that the only way to God is through the teachings of their holy book, the Koran. The Islamic faith is a religion of works based on these five "pillars" or duties: (1) A
Virtually all Hijazi Arabs in the United Arab Emirates are Sunni Muslim. At the present time, there are very few believers within their communities. A profession of faith in Jesus may cost a person his family, his honor, his job or even his life. Evangeli
Ask the Holy Spirit to call people who are willing to share the love of Christ with Hijazi Arabs.
Pray that strong local churches will be raised up among the Hijazi Arabs.
Ask God to raise up prayer teams who will begin breaking up the soil through worship and intercession.
Scripture Prayers for the Arab, Saudi - Hijazi in United Arab Emirates.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
