Bedouin — or Bedu people, as they are sometimes called — literally means “the ones who live in the desert.” It is estimated that 50 years ago, nearly half of Saudi Arabia’s population followed the nomadic way of life of the Bedouin, living in large tents, surrounded by their camels, goats and sheep. Today, the number of truly nomadic people in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be less than 10%, and rapidly decreasing. Many Bedouin, particularly the young, have left their tents in the desert for more modern luxuries and moved to the city. Still, Saudis speak proudly of their roots in the desert, and the traditional qualities of Beduoin hospitality remain an integral part of life in Saudi Arabia.

Bedouin tent near Khobar, Saudi Arabia
Credit: Wendy Cocker