food
A chickpea and tahini spread that's deeply rooted in the middle eastern culture, and originates from Iran
What is hummus?
This river flows through Iraq and joins the Tigris River before emptying into the Persian Gulf.
What is the Euphrates River?
This long, loose-fitting garment is traditionally worn by men in many Middle Eastern countries.
What is a thobe?
This ancient Egyptian queen is famous for her beauty and her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
Who is Cleopatra?
In Israel, this Jewish holiday lasts eight days and celebrates a miracle involving oil and the rededication of the Temple
What is Hanukkah
Crispy, fried patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Typical toppings include hummus, tahini sauce, chopped salad, pickles, and various sauces.
What is Falafel?
This desert, one of the largest in the world, covers much of Saudi Arabia.
What is the Arabian Desert?
This head covering worn by many Muslim women covers the hair but leaves the face visible.
What is a hijab?
Legendary boxer changed his name after converting to Islam and became one of the most famous Muslim athletes in the world.
Who is Muhammad Ali?
Celebrated by Christians in countries like Lebanon and Egypt, this holiday marks the birth of Jesus ad is observed on December 25 or January 7, depending on the tradition.
What is Christmas?
Thinly sliced meat that's stacked on a vertical rotisserie and roasted for hours. It's then shaved off and served in a pita or wrap with various toppings and sauces.
What is Shawarma?
This country is located on two continents, Europe and Asia.
What is Turkey?
A small cap worn by Jewish men, especially during prayer, religious study, and at meals. It's a sign of respect and recognition of God's presence. Wearing one is seen as acknowledging that there is always something "above" you.
What is a Kippah?
This Babylonian king is famous for one of the earliest written law codes in history.
Who is Hammurabi?
During the Muslim month, many people fast from sunrise to sunset as a way to practice self-discipline and spiritual reflection.
What is Ramadan?
A dish of eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, chili peppers, onions, and spices. It's a classic breakfast meal all over the Middle East and parts of North Africa.
What is shakshuka?
This body of water lies between Saudi Arabia and Africa and connects to the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal.
What is the Red Sea?
men primarily wear the galabeya (a loose, ankle-length robe) and sometimes a schenti (kilt) in ancient times. Women traditionally wear the kalasiris (a sheath dress) or a similar long dress, often accompanied by shawls or veils.
Egypt
This Ottoman sultan ruled during the empire’s golden age in the 1500s and was known in Europe as “the Magnificent.”
Who is Suleiman the Magnificent?
Observed mainly by Shia Muslims, this holiday commemorates the death of Imam Husain and is marked by mourning rituals, especially in Iraq and Iran.
What is Ashura?
This dessert is based on shredded phyllo dough that's layered with cheese, soaked in sweet syrup, and topped with crushed pistachios.
What's Knafeh?
This city is considered holy in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
What is Jerusalem?
In Oman, this embroidered cap worn by men is often paired with a white dishdasha and varies in design depending on regional patterns.
What is a kumma?
This young Pakistani activist won the Nobel Peace Prize after standing up for girls’ education.
Who is Malala Yousafzai?
This Muslim holiday, celebrated at the end of Ramadan, focuses on family gatherings, charity, and festive meals.
What is Eid al-Fitr?