Arab, Lebanese in United Arab Emirates

Introduction / History

The Levantine Arabs historically lived in a region called "the Levant". This includes Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Syria. Sometimes included in the region are Egypt, Iraq and Turkey. Originally speakers of Aramaic and followers of Canaanite culture and language, the Levantine Arabs gradually came to speak Arabic and to practice Islam for the most part.
Today, large populations can be found worldwide. A surprisingly large percentage of them are found in the Western Hemisphere, especially in Brazil, the U.S., Canada and Mexico as well as other Latin American countries. A substantial number live in African countries as well. There is a small number in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

What Are Their Lives Like?

Social life is extremely important to Lebanese Arabs. They like to share a daily coffee time by sitting on the floor and drinking coffee from cups without handles. Their diet basically consists of wheat bread and porridge made with boiled meat or chicken.
Despite Islamic teachings, the reality of different classes of Lebanese Arabs persists. The type of clothing worn has become one of the determining factors. Levant tribesmen dress differently than other villagers and can be easily recognized. The women wear veils both in town and at home.
To preserve their people, Lebanese Arabs are only allowed to marry those inside their own group. Levant Arab society is patrilineal, which means that inheritances are passed down through the males. In this system, boys inherit more than girls. Since children are considered a family's greatest asset, females are valued for their ability to bear children.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Levant Arabs have had a close association with Islam throughout their history. Islam still greatly influences the lives of Lebanese Arabs.

What Are Their Needs?

The UAE hosts Lebanese Arabs who are mostly Muslim. There are fewer Christians among them than there are in other countries. A Muslim who professes faith in Jesus Christ can lose his family, his honor, his job or even his life. Intercession is the key to reaching them with the gospel.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will raise up faithful intercessors who will stand in the gap for Lebanese Arabs.
Ask the Lord to call people who are willing to reach out and share the love of Christ with them.
Ask God to give the Lebanese Arab believers opportunities to share the love of Christ with their own people.
Pray that their traditional Muslim culture will soften, creating open doors for the gospel to be heard and heeded in the UAE.
Ask the Lord to raise up Lebanese disciples who will make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project