Language
In Levantine Arabic, if someone says “شو خصّك؟” (shū khaṣṣak?), what are they likely implying?
What is “Mind your business?”
This mashed dip made of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic is often debated between Lebanese, Palestinian, and Syrian origins.
What is hummus?
When a Yemeni says “الدنيا بخير” (al-dunya bikhayr) in response to how they’re doing, what are they actually saying?
What is “Things are okay” — often used even when life is hard?
What is the capital of Yemen?
What is Sana’a?
What does “Yalla” mean in almost every Arabic dialect?
What is “Let’s go”?
In Egyptian Arabic, what does the word “بيرغّي” (biyirghi) mean when someone says “هو بيرغّي كتير” (huwwa biyirghi kitīr)?
What is “He talks nonsense” or “He rambles a lot?”
In Yemen, this fermented fenugreek-based foam is a staple topping for hot stews like salta.
What is hilba?
In Gulf and Yemeni majlis settings, guests sit on the floor against cushions. What is this setup called?
What is a majlis?
Which river runs through both Iraq and Syria?
What is the Euphrates?
What sweet cheese dessert, soaked in syrup, is a famous specialty of Nablus?
What is knafeh?
In Gulf dialects, someone says “وينك من أول؟” (wēnak min awwal?). Literally it means “Where were you from the start?” — but what’s the sarcastic implication?
What is “You’re late” or “Nice of you to finally show up?”
What sweet dish made from layered bread, ghee, and honey is traditionally served during special gatherings in Yemen?
What is bint al-sahn?
In traditional Arab weddings, what is the name of the celebratory vocal sound made by women to show joy?
What is zaghroota (زغرودة)?
Which Arab country borders both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean?
What is Morocco?
What does the Yemeni saying “سمحنا له دخل بحماره” (samahna lah, dakhkhal bḥimārah) mean?
(Translation: “We allowed him in, and he brought his donkey too”)
What is “We gave him a little, and he took advantage of everything”?
(Used when someone oversteps after being given kindness or permission.)
In Moroccan Arabic, what does the sentence “بغيت ننعس دابا” (bghīt nʿnass dāba) mean in casual conversation?
What is “I want to sleep now?”
In the Levant, what do the dishes “wara’ enab” and “kousa mahshi” have in common in terms of preparation method?
What is they’re both stuffed (vegetables filled with rice/meat)?
Why is it considered rude in many Arab homes to compliment something too strongly without saying “mashallah”?
What is it could attract the evil eye or be seen as bad luck?
Which country is home to the ancient rock-carved city of Petra?
What is Jordan?
What is the name of the traditional curved dagger worn in Yemeni culture?
What is a jambiya?
In Yemeni Arabic (Sana’ani), someone says “عادني ما خرجتش” (ʿādani ma kharajtish). What does this mean, and how does the structure differ from Modern Standard Arabic?
What is “I haven’t left yet?”
This slow-cooked Yemeni dish, typically buried underground, uses smoky spices and is associated with Hadhramaut.
What is mandi?
In conservative Yemeni and Saudi culture, offering coffee (qahwa) before and tea (shai) after a meal follows what deeper cultural meaning?
What is honoring the guest from start to finish (hospitality protocol)?
Which Yemeni port city was historically known as the “Gate of India” due to its trade links?
What is Aden?
What is the name of the massive desert that stretches across Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and the UAE?
What is the Rubʿ al-Khali (Empty Quarter)?