Cultural Observations

The week of Eid has passed, tomorrow everyone returns to work. On the day of Eid, I found myself wandering the city with ten thousand men and about 50 women. Every business was closed, so we were all just walking around. Finally, and sadly, I found a Burger King that was open. Sadly, because it would be an American business that did not observe the holiday. I thought it was disrespectful, but gladly consumed my hammour sandwich anyway. (hammour=fish) Then at about 6pm, the sun went down and all the families came out. Shops opened up and there were people everywhere. Since then the city has been abuzz with sales and celebrations.

My friend and I toured the Emirates Palace Hotel yesterday. It is majestic, and certainly royalty would not feel out of place staying there. Photos to follow.

Women are treated respectfully here, but while it is illegal for men and women to display affection for each other in public, it seems that men are quite comfortable walking hand in hand, or standing with their arms around each other. It is also common to see guys taking photos of each other in front of a landmark, or acting like a couple. They probably are NOT a couple, it just is culturally acceptable for men to be openly affectionate.

I don't see women treat each other this way. They walk together in groups, but remain more aloof. I am fascinated by the women who cover themselves completely. They are not repressed, I promise you. They are quite elegant and proud. As a matter of fact, I suspect they look at me disdainfully, as I display my face and hair like a Brazen Western Harlot. Thank goodness for the colorful Indian women, in sarees and salwar kameez. I try to hang out with them on the bus. Also the cute little Philippina women are perky in t-shirts and slacks. We aren't as mysterious as our Arab sisters, but we stick together and don't let ourselves feel intimidated!

I feel quite safe on the streets, as the cool weather at night makes it a favorite time for everyone to be out and about. There aren't any homeless or beggars that I have seen, and no one hassels you to buy things or tries to hustle you. I do get stared at a lot. I must look out of place. Believe it or not, everyone guesses that I am Russian! Ha Ha