Skip to Main Content

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility: Arab American Heritage

Find resources for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility at the Orange County Library System.

Arab American Heritage Month

Arab American Heritage 

This page is not comprehensive of all Arabic culture. The page is intended as a resource on different topics you can consider as you think about plans for Arab American Heritage Month at your locations. Thank you to our friends at the Arab American Community Center of Central Florida for their help as our cultural consultants. 

Arab American Heritage Month

Arab American Heritage Month is a celebration in the United States that recognizes and honors the contributions of Arab Americans to the nation's cultural, social, political, and economic landscape. The month is observed annually in April.

Arabic Nations

Egypt Sudan Algeria Iraq Morocco
Saudi Arabia Yemen Syria Somalia Tunisia
 Jordan United Arab Emirates Libya Lebanon Mauritania 
Oman Kuwait Qatar Bahrain Djibouti
Comoros Palestine

The month began to be celebrated as early as the 1990s but in an unofficial capacity. In 2017, there was a push to designate April as National Arab American Heritage Month. On April 30, 2019, Debbie Dingell introduced a congressional resolution to formally recognize the month. To date, Arab American Heritage Month is not officially federally recognized with permanent legislation.

President Biden became the first US President to recognize Arab American Heritage Month at the federal level on April 19th, 2021. While not an official proclamation, Biden's acknowledgment was a significant step in recognition. You can read the letter here. On March 31st 2023, President Biden declared April as Arab American Heritage Month.

Outdated Terminology

Middle Easterner: While not inherently offensive, this term is broad and can be imprecise. It's often better to specify a person's country of origin or use more specific terms like Arab American, Lebanese American, etc.

Mohammedan or Muhammadan: These terms are archaic and potentially offensive when referring to Muslims. It is more appropriate to use "Muslim" to describe followers of Islam. While Islam is the most prominent religion in Arabic nations about 7 percent of individuals practice other religions. 

Stereotypes and Tropes

​​​​​Terrorist Stereotype

  • Historical Context: The roots of the terrorist stereotype can be traced back to geopolitical events, including conflicts in the Middle East, particularly since the late 20th century. High-profile incidents, such as the 1979 Iranian Revolution, the Gulf Wars, and the 9/11 attacks, have played a role in shaping perceptions.
  • Media Influence: Media portrayals, especially after 9/11, have often reinforced the association between Arab Americans and terrorism. Overreliance on certain tropes in movies, television shows, and news coverage has contributed to the persistence of this harmful stereotype.

Clip from the TV show Homeland

Veiled Women Stereotype:

  • Historical Context: The association of Arab and Muslim women with veils can be traced to cultural misunderstandings and Orientalist perspectives that exoticize and misunderstand practices such as hijab or niqab.
  • Media Influence: Media representations sometimes reduce Arab and Muslim women to their clothing, portraying them as oppressed or mysterious. This oversimplification neglects the diversity of women's experiences and choices within the Arab American community.

Refugee Stereotype:

  • Historical Context: Wars and conflicts in the Middle East, such as the Lebanese Civil War, the Iraq War, and the Syrian Civil War, have led to significant refugee movements. While some Arab Americans have refugee backgrounds, it is inaccurate to assume that the entire community shares this experience.
  • Media Influence: Media coverage of refugee crises and migration patterns can contribute to the stereotype of Arab Americans solely as refugees. This oversimplification ignores the diverse reasons for migration and the varied experiences within the community.

Primitive or Backward Society Stereotype:

  • Historical Context: Orientalist perspectives that emerged during the colonial era contributed to the perception of the Arab world as primitive or backward. These perspectives often ignored the rich history of science, literature, and cultural achievements in the region.
  • Media Influence: Simplistic portrayals in media sometimes reinforce stereotypes of the Arab world as antiquated or regressive. Failure to depict the modernity and complexity of Arab societies can perpetuate these misconceptions.

All Arabs are Muslim Stereotype: 

  • Historical Context: While many Arabs practice the religion of Islam, not all citizens of Arab  majority countries identify as Arab Muslims; many Arabs are not Muslim. The Copts in Egypt constitute the largest Christian community in the Middle East, as well as the largest religious minority in the region, accounting for an estimated 10% (>10 million) of the Egyptian population.
  • Media influence: The media may not always provide a diverse representation of Arab Americans, focusing on specific narratives that fit prevailing stereotypes. This can contribute to the perception that all Arab Americans are Muslims.  Unfortunately, Arab Americans and Muslims have sometimes been stereotyped as a monolithic group, leading to a conflation of the two identities.

The Islamic Golden Age

A historical period that spanned from the 8th to the 14th century, during which the Islamic world, particularly the Arab world, experienced a remarkable flourishing of intellectual, scientific, cultural, and artistic achievements. This period is often associated with the Abbasid Caliphate and other Islamic dynasties that fostered an environment conducive to scholarly pursuits. Here are key aspects of the Islamic Golden Age:

  • House of Wisdom:
  • Establishment: The House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikmah) was a major intellectual center in Baghdad during the Abbasid Caliphate. Caliph Harun al-Rashid (ruled 786–809) and his successors actively supported the translation of classical Greek, Roman, Persian, and Indian texts into Arabic.

  • Translation Movement: Scholars in the House of Wisdom engaged in a significant translation movement, translating works in various disciplines, including philosophy, science, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and literature. This effort played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting ancient knowledge to the Islamic world.

  • Philosophy and Theology:
  • Aristotelian Influence: Islamic philosophers, such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Al-Farabi, and Ibn Rushd (Averroes), engaged with and expanded upon the works of Aristotle. They sought to reconcile Greek philosophy with Islamic theology, contributing to the development of Islamic philosophy.

  • Theology (Kalam): Theological debates and discussions flourished during this period, with scholars addressing questions related to faith, reason, and the nature of God. Influential theologians like Al-Ghazali made significant contributions.

  • Mathematics and Astronomy:
  • Algebra and Algorithms: Mathematicians like Al-Khwarizmi made pioneering contributions to algebra and introduced the concept of algorithms, laying the foundation for modern algebraic symbolism and computational methods. The word Algebra comes from Al-Jabr which means the reunion of broken parts.

  • Astronomy: Islamic astronomers, including Al-Battani and Ibn al-Haytham, made significant advancements in observational astronomy and contributed to the understanding of celestial bodies.

  • Medicine:
  • Medical Treatises: Islamic physicians, such as Ibn Sina (Avicenna) and Al-Razi, produced comprehensive medical encyclopedias that synthesized and expanded upon knowledge from Greek, Roman, and Indian sources. These works influenced medical practices in both the Islamic world and medieval Europe.

  • Pharmacology: Scholars in the Islamic Golden Age contributed to the development of pharmacology, exploring the properties of various substances for medicinal purposes.

  • Literature and Poetry:
  • Maqamat Literature: Al-Hamadhani's "Maqamat" is an example of literary excellence during this period, featuring a collection of stories narrated by the character Abu Zayd.

  • Poetry: Classical Arabic poetry continued to thrive, with poets like Al-Mutanabbi and Abu Tammam producing celebrated works.

  • Architecture:
  • Islamic Architecture: The Islamic Golden Age witnessed the construction of architectural marvels, including mosques, palaces, and universities. Distinctive features such as geometric patterns, calligraphy, and domes became hallmarks of Islamic architecture.

  • Contributions to Navigation and Geography:
  • Geographical Works: Scholars like Al-Masudi and Ibn Khordadbeh produced important geographical works, contributing to the understanding of geography, trade routes, and diverse cultures.

  • Navigational Instruments: Advances in navigation, including the astrolabe and quadrant, enhanced maritime exploration.

  • Enduring Legacy:
  • The intellectual achievements of the Islamic Golden Age had a lasting impact, influencing subsequent generations and laying the groundwork for the European Renaissance. Many Arabic texts were later translated into Latin, contributing to the revival of classical knowledge in Europe.

The Islamic Golden Age is a testament to the spirit of inquiry, innovation, and cultural exchange that characterized the medieval Islamic world. It represents a pinnacle of intellectual achievement that has left a lasting imprint on the fields of science, philosophy, literature, and architecture.

Islamic Golden Age OCLS Resources

Language and Literature

Arabic Language:

Classical Arabic: The Arabic language itself is a major contribution to world culture. Classical Arabic, used in the Quran and classical Islamic texts, has been a source of linguistic beauty and eloquence.

Learn Arabic on Mango Languages 

Facts about Arabic:

  • About 313 million people speak Arabic in the world 
  • Official language in 22 countries 
  • There are at least 30 dialects of Arabic
  • There are no capital letters in Arabic 
  • Arabic is written and read from right to left 

Arabic Literature: Arabic literature spans poetry, prose, and various literary forms. It has made substantial contributions to world literature, influencing diverse literary traditions.

Islamic Golden Age:

Translation Movement: During the Islamic Golden Age (8th to 14th centuries), scholars in the Arab world translated Greek, Roman, Persian, and Indian texts into Arabic, preserving and expanding knowledge in various fields, including literature.

Library of Alexandria 

The Library of Alexandria was a massive and renowned library in the ancient city of Alexandria, Egypt. It was established in the 3rd century BCE and is considered one of the most important cultural and scientific centers in the ancient world.

The Library of Alexandria housed hundreds of thousands of manuscripts and texts in various fields such as science, philosophy, literature, medicine, and engineering. It served as a center for studies and research, attracting numerous scholars and brilliant philosophers.

Cultural and literary references highlight the significance of this library as a symbol of knowledge and learning in Arab and Islamic history.

Oral Traditions, Storytelling, and Folk Tales

One Thousand and One Nights (Arabian Nights):

This famous collection of Middle Eastern folktales has had a profound impact on world literature. The frame story of Scheherazade and the tales within it showcase the richness of Arab storytelling. The tales, including "Aladdin's Wonderful Lamp," "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves," and "Sinbad the Sailor," have become iconic and have influenced literature, art, and popular culture worldwide.

Hikayat (Arab Short Stories): 

Hikayat refers to traditional Arabic short stories that were often passed down orally. These stories cover a wide range of themes, including adventure, romance, and morality.

Folk Tales and Legends:

Juha Stories: The character of Juha (Nasreddin Hodja in Turkish) is featured in humorous folk tales known across the Arab world. These stories often involve Juha's clever and humorous responses to various situations.

Animal Fables: Traditional fables involving animals, such as Kalila wa Dimna, offer moral lessons and are rooted in ancient storytelling traditions.

Zajal and Nabati Poetry:

Zajal and Nabati poetry are forms of oral poetry performed in colloquial Arabic. They often incorporate humor, satire, and social commentary, making them accessible to a broad audience.

Proverbs and Sayings:

Arab culture places great importance on proverbs and sayings that encapsulate wisdom, life lessons, and cultural norms. These are often shared orally and contribute to the oral tradition.

Shadow Puppetry:

Shadow puppetry, known as Khayal al-Zill in Arabic, involves creating stories using shadow figures projected onto a screen. It has been a popular form of entertainment and storytelling in the Arab world.

Trailblazers in History

​​​​​​Ahmed Zewail (1946–2016): An Egyptian-American scientist, Zewail won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1999 for his work on femtochemistry, becoming the first Arab-American Nobel laureate in a scientific field.

Linda Sarsour: A Palestinian-American activist known for her work in civil rights and advocacy. Sarsour co-chaired the Women's March in 2017 and has been an influential voice in social justice movements.

Linda Sarsour OCLS Resources

Reem Acra: A Lebanese-American fashion designer, Acra has dressed numerous celebrities and designed bridal gowns. She has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry, showcasing Arab talent on the global stage.

Etel Adnan: A Lebanese-American painter, poet, and essayist, Adnan's abstract artwork has gained international acclaim. She has been a pioneering figure in the art world, breaking boundaries with her unique style.

Etel Adnan OCLS Resources

Naguib Mahfouz:  An Egyptian writer who won the 1988 Nobel Prize in Literature. Mahfouz is regarded as one of the first contemporary writers in Arabic literature to explore themes of existentialism.

Naguib Mahfouz OCLS Resources

Jamilah Salimpour: A pioneer in belly dance, Salimpour is of Lebanese descent and is credited with shaping the development of American Tribal Style (ATS) belly dance, influencing the dance form globally.

Tony Shalhoub: A Lebanese-American actor, Shalhoub won multiple Emmy Awards for his role in the TV series "Monk." He has had a successful career in film and television, earning critical acclaim.

Paula Abdul: An American pop singer, dancer, and choreographer of Syrian descent, Abdul achieved fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She became the first woman to win the MTV Video Music Award for Best Choreography.

Paula Abdul OCLS Resources

Rashida Tlaib: A Palestinian-American politician, Tlaib is one of the first Muslim women elected to the U.S. Congress. She represents Michigan's 13th congressional district.

Rashida Tlaib OCLS Resources

Rony Seikaly: A Lebanese-American former professional basketball player, Seikaly played in the NBA and was the first player of Lebanese descent to be drafted in the first round of the NBA Draft.

Notable Figures

Huda Zoghbi - Lebanese-American geneticist renowned for her groundbreaking research on neurological disorders, particularly the discovery of the gene linked to Rett syndrome.

Farouk El-Baz - Egyptian-American scientist and geologist who played a crucial role in the Apollo moon missions, utilizing his expertise to select landing sites, analyze lunar geological features, and pioneer the use of space photography to study the Earth. 

Ahmed Zewail – Egyptian American Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry and pioneer of Femtochemistry, which studies chemical reactions at an ultra-short timeframe. Former Director of the Physical Biology Center at Caltech.

Charles Elachi – Lebanese American former head of the Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL), who was responsible for the research and development of numerous flight instruments and missions for solar system exploration including the Mars Odyssey (2001) and Mars Exploration Rovers Spirit and Opportunity.

Michael Debakey – Lebanese American world-renowned surgeon who invented the artificial heart pump and was a Presidential Medal of Freedom awardee.

Joseph Jacobs – Lebanese American founder of Jacob’s Engineering, one of the largest engineering and construction companies in the world.

Mohammed Hashish – Egyptian American inventor of the water jet cutter that revolutionized machining and material cutting.

Reem Acra - Lebanese-born fashion designer celebrated for her elegant and luxurious bridal and evening wear, dressing prominent figures including royalty and Hollywood stars.

Zuhair Murad - Lebanese fashion designer renowned for his intricate and glamorous couture creations, often worn on red carpets and at high-profile events.

Rami Kadi - A Lebanese fashion designer known for his haute couture creations that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary styles, gaining recognition for his intricate and glamorous designs.

Gigi Hadig- Palestinian American international model of the year who has made 35 appearances on various international versions of Vogue Magazine in the span of just 4 years. 

Rami Malek - Egyptian-American actor, recipient of an Academy Award for his transformative performance as Freddie Mercury in "Bohemian Rhapsody" and acclaimed for his role in the TV series "Mr. Robot."

Tony Shalhoub - Emmy-winning actor of Lebanese descent, renowned for his versatile roles, notably as the obsessive-compulsive detective Adrian Monk in the TV series "Monk."

Haifaa al-Mansour - A Saudi Arabian filmmaker, known for her groundbreaking work as the first female Saudi director, with films like "Wadjda" and "Mary Shelley."

Hoda Kotb- Egyptian American host on the Emmy-award winning Today Show on NBC. 

Dj Khaled - Palestinian-American music producer, DJ, and media personality known for his chart-topping collaborations and his role in shaping the contemporary hip-hop and rap scene.

Rabeh Saqer - Saudi Arabian singer and composer recognized for his influential contributions to Gulf music, fusing traditional styles with modern elements.

Yasmine Hamdan - A Lebanese singer and songwriter, known for her innovative blend of Arabic and electronic music, contributing to the alternative music scene.

Rashida Tlaib - U.S. Representative, the first Palestinian-American woman in Congress, known for her advocacy on social justice issues and progressive policies.

James Zogby - Founder and president of the Arab American Institute, a leading advocate for Arab American rights and political engagement.

Hala Ayala - A Virginia State Delegate and advocate for women's rights, known for her commitment to social and economic justice issues.

Rony Seikaly - Lebanese-American former professional basketball player who played in the NBA, showcasing skill and athleticism as a center for several teams.

Rima Fakih - Lebanese-American beauty queen and professional wrestler, notable for being crowned Miss USA in 2010 and her achievements in sports entertainment.

Robert Saleh – Lebanese American NFL head coach for the New York Jets. Won the Super Bowl as the assistant coach for the Seattle Seahawks.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Justin Abdelkader- Jordanian American former NHL player for the Detroit Red Wings and current Swedish hockey player for EV Zug.

Leila Aboulela - A Sudanese author recognized for her novels exploring themes of identity, migration, and cultural clashes, with works like "Minaret" and "The Translator."

​​​​​​​Kahlil Gibran (1883–1931): A Lebanese-American poet, writer, and philosopher, Gibran's work, including "The Prophet," has had a profound impact on literature and remains influential worldwide.

Najwa Dance Corps - Contemporary dance group founded by Lebanese-American choreographer Nadine Helal, blending traditional Arab dance with modern aesthetics.

Karim Nagi - Egyptian-American musician and dancer, dedicated to promoting understanding and appreciation of Arab music and dance through educational programs and performances.

Helen Zughaib - A Syrian-American artist known for her vibrant and politically charged paintings, capturing the complexities of Arab identity and the human experience.

Etel Adnan - A Lebanese-American poet and visual artist celebrated for her abstract landscape paintings and transcendent poetry that often reflects on war, displacement, and cultural identity.

Kahlil Gibran - A Lebanese-American poet, philosopher, and artist renowned for his work, "The Prophet," a collection of poetic essays.

Linda Sarsour- Palestinian-American political activist and co-chair of the Women's March. She is known for her advocacy work on issues such as civil rights, immigration reform, and women's rights.

Dr. James Zogby- Lebanese-American political activist and the founder and president of the Arab American Institute. He has been a strong advocate for Arab American political participation and has worked on issues related to foreign policy and civil rights.

Dr. Debbie Almontaser- Yemeni-American educator and civil rights activist. She has been involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding and is known for her advocacy for Muslim American communities.

Abed Ayoub- Palestinian-American attorney and civil rights advocate. He serves as the national legal and policy director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), working to address discrimination and bias against Arab Americans.

Sarab Al-Jijakli: Syrian-American activist and the co-founder of the Network of Arab-American Professionals (NAAP). He has been involved in community organizing and advocacy, particularly focusing on issues related to the Syrian community.

Nadia Tonova: Palestinian-American human rights advocate and the executive director of the National Network for Arab American Communities (NNAAC). She has been involved in addressing issues affecting Arab American communities, including civil rights and immigration.

Orlando Figures

​​​​​​Fares Wehbe: An entrepreneur and founder of the Arab American Community Center in Orlando, Florida. He has been actively involved in promoting cultural awareness and community engagement.

Dr. Adel Eldin: Of Egyptian descent, is a physician and philanthropist based in Orlando. He has been actively involved in community service and healthcare initiatives.

Ahmed Bedier: A community activist and the co-founder of United Voices for America. He has been involved in advocacy work on civil rights and social justice in the Orlando area.

Dr. Mohammad Shakfeh: A physician and community leader in Orlando. He has been active in promoting educational and healthcare initiatives in the Arab American community.

Florida Figures

​​​​​​Donna Shalala: Of Lebanese descent, served as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Bill Clinton. She later became the President of the University of Miami, contributing to education and public service in Florida.

Ragheb Alama: A Lebanese singer and composer, has a significant fan base in Florida, where the Arab American community appreciates his contributions to Arabic music.

Tawfiq Barqawi: Also known as Abu Ali, is a Palestinian-American community leader in Tampa, Florida. He has been actively involved in advocacy and community service, particularly within the Palestinian diaspora.

Hassan Shibly: An attorney and civil rights activist who has been involved in the Arab American community in Florida. He served as the executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Florida chapter.

Ghada Irani: Of Lebanese descent, is a community leader and activist based in South Florida. She has been involved in various cultural and philanthropic initiatives within the Arab American community.

Cuisine and Food Traditions

Staple Ingredients:

  • Grains: Wheat, barley, rice, and bulgur are staple grains used in various dishes. Bread, in the form of pita or flatbreads, is a common accompaniment.
  • Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and fava beans are widely used in Arab cooking, contributing to dishes like falafel and various stews.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is a key component in Arab cuisine, used for cooking and as a condiment.
  • Spices and Herbs: Common spices include cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint add freshness to many dishes.

Mezze:

  • Appetizer Spread: Mezze refers to a variety of small dishes served as appetizers. It includes items like hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves.

Kebabs and Grilled Meats:

  • Shawarma and Kebabs: Grilled or roasted meat, such as shawarma (rotating spit-cooked meat) and kebabs, is a popular street food and main course.
  • Mixed Grills: Mixed grill platters often feature a variety of meats, including lamb, chicken, and beef, seasoned with aromatic spices.

Grain Dishes: 

  • Mujaddara: a dish consisting of cooked lentils together with groats, generally rice, and garnished with sautéed onions.

Rice Dishes:

  • Makloubeh: An inverted rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a layered presentation.

  • Mansaf: A traditional Jordanian dish featuring lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce, often served with rice and flatbread. 
  • Kabsa: A traditional rice dis with meat and spices, commonly association with Saudi Arabian cuisine. 
  • Machboos: A popular Middle Eastern rice dish, particularly in Gulf countries, prepared with spiced meat (such as chicken, lamb, or fish) and aromatic rice.

Tagines and Stews:

  • Tagine: Originating from North Africa, tagine refers to both the cooking vessel and the slow-cooked stew made with ingredients like meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
  • Fasoulia: A stew made with green beans, tomatoes, and meat, commonly enjoyed in Arab households.

Sweets and Desserts:

  • Baklava: Layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup create the famous sweet known as baklava.
  • Qatayef: A dessert commonly enjoyed during Ramadan, qatayef are stuffed pancakes filled with sweet cheese, nuts, or dates.

Coffee and Tea Culture:

  • Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): Arabic coffee, often flavored with cardamom, is a symbol of hospitality. It is served in small cups without milk.
  • Mint Tea: Mint tea, often sweetened with sugar, is a popular beverage and a symbol of hospitality in Arab culture.

Saffron and Rosewater:

  • Floral Flavors: Saffron and rosewater are frequently used in Arab desserts, adding distinct floral and aromatic notes.

Regional Specialties:

  • Kabsa: A traditional rice dish with meat and spices, commonly associated with Saudi Arabian cuisine.
  • Mahshi: Vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice and meat.

Holidays and Celebrations

Eid al-Fitr

Celebrated by Arab American Muslims, Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar. In 2024, the holiday is observed from the evening of April 9th through April 10th. It involves special prayers, feasting, and the exchange of gifts.

Eid al-Fitr OCLS Resources

Eid al-Adha

Observed by Arab American Muslims, Eid al-Adha typically falls about 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son. Families often come together for prayers and share in the ritual of sacrificing an animal.

Eid al-Adha OCLS Resources

Mawlid al-Nabi

The celebration of the Prophet Muhammad's birthday is observed by some Arab American Muslim communities on the 12th day of Rabi' al-Awwal in the Islamic calendar, which varies in the Gregorian calendar.

Coptic Christmas

Celebrated by Arab American Christians of Coptic heritage on January 7th, Coptic Christmas involves religious services, feasting, and festive gatherings. It's important to recognize that some members of the Arab community celebrate Christmas on December 25th. 

Assyrian New Year (Akitu)

Celebrated by some Arab Americans of Assyrian heritage, Akitu, the Assyrian New Year, is typically observed in March or April. It involves cultural events, traditional dances, and communal celebrations.

St. Barbara's Day (Aid il-Burbara)

Celebrated on December 4th by some Arab American Christians, especially those of Lebanese descent, St. Barbara's Day involves preparing and sharing a traditional dessert called "Aid il-Burbara."

Dance

Dabke

  • Dabke is a traditional group dance performed in a line or circle, commonly associated with celebrations and social gatherings, characterized by fast-paced footwork, handholding, and a sense of community. It is often performed during joyous occasions and celebrations.

Raqs Sharqi (Belly Dance): 

  • An expressive dance style characterized by isolations of the hips, abdomen, and torso. It often involves intricate costumes and is performed to a variety of Middle Eastern music.

Khaleeji Dance: 

  • Khaleeji dance is associated with the Gulf countries and is characterized by expressive hand movements, flowing dresses, and rhythmic footwork. It often accompanies traditional music and poetry.

Tanoura Dance: 

  • Originating from Egypt, the Tanoura dance is inspired by Sufi mysticism. Dancers, dressed in colorful skirts, spin continuously, symbolizing a spiritual journey.

Raks Al Assaya (Stick Dance):

  • A folk dance that involves dancers using sticks, often depicting mock combat or storytelling. It is performed in various Arab regions with local variations.

Samah Dance: 

  • Samah is a Sufi ritual dance performed as part of spiritual gatherings (dhikr). It involves repetitive movements and whirling, aiming to achieve a trance-like state and spiritual connection.

Hagallah Dance: 

  • Hagallah is a traditional dance associated with Bedouin communities, featuring lively footwork and expressive gestures. It is often performed during weddings and festive occasions.

Sa'idi Dance: 

  • Sa'idi dance is from Upper Egypt and is characterized by energetic footwork, cane twirling, and jumping. It is often performed at celebrations and cultural events.

Music

Maqam System:

Maqam is a system of melodic modes in traditional Arabic music. It provides a framework for improvisation and expression, with each maqam conveying a specific mood or emotion. 

Arab music often utilizes microtonal scales, which include intervals smaller than those found in Western music. This contributes to the distinct sound of Arabic melodies.

Arab Classical Music:

Tarab, meaning "enchantment" or "ecstasy," is a central concept in Arab classical music. It emphasizes emotional expression and the connection between the performer and the audience.

The oud (lute) and qanun (zither) are iconic instruments in classical Arab music. They play a central role in orchestras and ensembles.

Andalusian Music:

Moorish Legacy: Andalusian music, with roots in Al-Andalus (Islamic Spain), features intricate melodies and rhythmic patterns. It has influenced both North African and Middle Eastern musical traditions.

Al-âla is a specific style of Andalusian music, characterized by vocal and instrumental components. It is often associated with poetic and lyrical themes.

Folk and Popular Music:

Rai Music: Originating in Algeria, Rai is a popular music genre known for its fusion of traditional Arabic sounds with Western elements. It often addresses social and political issues.

Khaleeji Music: Hailing from the Arabian Gulf region, Khaleeji music incorporates local instruments such as the oud and mirwas. It includes various genres like Sawt and Fidjeri.

Islamic Nasheeds: Nasheeds are Islamic vocal music that often conveys spiritual themes. They are performed in various styles and are popular in religious and cultural contexts.

Mawwal and Improvisation: Mawwal is a form of vocal improvisation in Arabic music. Singers often use mawwal to express deep emotions and showcase their vocal prowess.

Hip-Hop

Arabic hip-hop is a segment of hip-hop music performed in the Arabic-speaking world. Due to the variety of dialects and local genres which exist in the localities, Arabic hip-hop music may appear very diverse depending on the country of the song. Like most artists of the genre, hip-hop artists from the Arabic-speaking world are highly influenced by American hip-hop

Arabic Music Instruments:

Ney and Kawala: These are flute-like instruments often used in classical and folk music.

Tabla and Darbuka: Percussion instruments like the tabla (drum) and darbuka (goblet drum) play a crucial role in providing rhythmic patterns in Arab music.

Violin and Kanun: Instruments like the violin and kanun (zither) are commonly used in various Arab music genres.

Arts and Crafts

Calligraphy

Kufic Script: One of the earliest forms of Islamic calligraphy, characterized by angular and geometric letters. It is often found in Quranic manuscripts and architectural inscriptions.

Thuluth Script: Known for its cursive and flowing style, Thuluth is often used for decorative inscriptions in architecture and manuscripts.

Naskh Script: A versatile script used for both everyday writing and decorative purposes. It is known for its legibility and is commonly used in manuscripts and on monuments.

Arabesque Design

Geometric Patterns: Arabesque design often features intricate geometric patterns that adorn various surfaces, including walls, textiles, and ceramics.

Floral Motifs: Arabesque incorporates stylized floral motifs, showcasing a harmonious blend of nature and art. These motifs are commonly found in Islamic architecture.

Architecture

Moorish Architecture: Found in Spain and North Africa, Moorish architecture features horseshoe arches, decorative tilework (zellij), and intricate stucco ornamentation.

Mamluk Architecture: Prominent in Egypt and Syria, Mamluk architecture is known for its use of ornate geometric patterns, domes, and minarets.

Ottoman Architecture: Characterized by large domes, arches, and decorative tiles, Ottoman architecture is prominent in Turkey and the surrounding regions.

Ceramics and Pottery

Iznik Pottery: Originating from the Turkish town of Iznik, this style features vibrant colors and intricate floral patterns. It is often used for tiles, dishes, and other ceramics.

Fritware Ceramics: Developed during the Islamic Golden Age, fritware ceramics feature intricate designs and vibrant glazes. They are commonly found in mosques and palaces.

Textiles and Carpets

Embroidery: Traditional Arab embroidery, known as "tatreez," often includes elaborate patterns and motifs on clothing and textiles. Each region has its distinct style and motifs.

Metalwork

Filigree and Repoussé: Arab metalworkers excel in filigree (delicate wirework) and repoussé (hammered relief). These techniques are often used to create intricate designs on jewelry, lanterns, and metal artifacts.

Brass and Copperware: Arab artisans create ornate brass and copper items, including trays, lamps, and utensils, featuring intricate engravings and embossing.

Woodwork

Mashrabiya: Decorative wooden screens with intricate geometric patterns, used in traditional architecture to provide privacy and ventilation.

Inlay Work: Wood inlay, known as "khatam," involves the intricate arrangement of small pieces of wood, bone, or metal to create geometric patterns on wooden surfaces.

Arab American Businesses

Restaurants

Cedar Halal Food and Grill 

12100 E Colonial Dr, Orlando

Flame Kabob

7536 Dr. Phillips Blvd, Suite 360, Orlando

Habibi Lebanese Grill 

2451 S Hiawassee Rd, Orlando

Beirut Bakery & Deli

11757 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando

Maraya at Sabrina’s Restaurant

8100 Crystal Clear Lane, Orlando

Shopping

Adam Halal Meats or Mera Bazar

7333 Lake Underhill Rd, Orlando

Alexandria Market

6148 Hanging Moss Rd, Orlando 

Apna Bazaar

9404 S Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando

Big Bazaar

485 S Kirkman Rd Unit 108, Orlando

International Food Market 

977 N Goldenrod Rd, Orlando

Muslim Memories 

12236 S Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando

Arab American Lit