Predominately known for the Iraqi invasion, “Desert Storm”, and of course, its contribution to the world’s Oil supply, Kuwait was not always a wealthy country. Contrary to stereotypical belief, not all Kuwait nationals reap the reward of the wealth oil has brought to the country.
Before the discovery of oil, Kuwait’s community was thriving with fisherman and deep sea pearl divers, which served as the small countries main source of income. Family, religion (Islam) and communities of friendships were and still are important values. It’s not uncommon to find extended family residing together in large, villa-style houses.
Within these houses are rooms referred to as Diwania (pronounced Dee-Wan-ee-a), where men gather enjoying each others company. Often discussions lead to issues concerning the majority population (Kuwaitis and foreigners), which are: the educational system, water and electricity conservation, and the housing crisis. Land is incredibly expensive and only available for Kuwait nationals to purchase. Apartments are quite spacious, however, rent ranges from $900-$2000 a month. Women also have rooms they gather in, known as receiving rooms, usually lavishly furnished and decorated.
When not engaged in a detailed conversation with friends and family, Kuwaiti’s enjoy time at the beach, stay overnight in beach houses known as Chalets and go “desert camping” with family and friends. It’s this kind of gathering, between friends and family, that makes life in Kuwait fulfilling.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Fascinating glimpse into the Kuwait community. I feel that I have gained some understanding into the culture, and factors that might have shaped it. You pulled the various aspects of community into your blog quite nicely.
ReplyDeleteI liked the way you described your community, it was a really interesting read. Since i've never been outside the U.S. myself, i like to hear about all the different cultures out there.
ReplyDeleteThis was such a great story. It was almost emotional to me at some points. Awesome post!
ReplyDeleteJamie Groth
This was so interesting! "desert camping?!" Sounds awesome! It's fun to read your posts because i can learn so much about the kuwait culture!
ReplyDeleteKelli
ReplyDeleteVery interesting and intriguing post. I'd like to hear more about this tradition of "desert camping." What are points of similarity/difference with the culture you grew up in?
Rich
InTeReStInG..
ReplyDeletewhat happens if genders cross over into the other's rooms?
as an American do you find the more deliberate subordination of your gender repressive or have you been able to adapt?
isn't the internet great to be able to share in an online community from anywhere in the world?
Elisa,
ReplyDeleteIt is more a cultural, respectful atmosphere, rather than deliberate. I don't feel repressed in any way, shape or form. In fact I hold a higher position in my career, and have had more opportunities to meet people from all over the world in extra-curricular orgainzations, then I ever did in the United States.
Good job in your post it was very interesting to read
ReplyDeleteFabulous read – I love learning about other cultures! It is so interesting to find out the lifestyles of ordinary people in the Middle East that transcend our understanding that can sometimes be rooted in a “stereotypical belief” as you said, whether through ignorance or deliberate misinterpretation. I also really enjoyed your description of the Diwania rooms – is it kind of like the formal sitting rooms of the European Georgian Era? I can just imagine how beautifully elaborate the decorations in the women’s rooms are! Wonderful post.
ReplyDeleteextremely interesting. good job
ReplyDelete