Hijazi Arab in United Arab Emirates

The Arabic desert voices of the Hijazi tell much about their lives and culture as they roam the harsh deserts of the United Arab Emirates with their camels, sheep and goats that provide their main source of livelihood. Sitting around open fires outside their tents generally made from woven goat or camel hair, they often recite poems or sing songs accompanied by a lute (oud), flute or drum while relating stories about their history or lives. The women are particularly skilled in this art. Although they have few possessions, one that is important is their coffee cooking pot. The majority consider manual labor jobs as degrading. However, more of them are accepting wage-paying jobs in urban regions to improve their lives with better housing, medical and educational opportunities.

Ministry Obstacles

The Hijazi Arabs strongly identify with the Islamic religious system and they are nomadic. These are key reasons why they are not being reached for Christ.

Scripture Focus

"Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world."  Hebrews 1:1-2

Scripture Prayer

Pray that today’s people group comes to understand that the one, true God has spoken through His Son, Jesus Christ. Pray they would have the wisdom to listen to Jesus.

Prayer Focus

Ask God for a serious, planned effort by caring followers of Christ to reach the Hijazi so they can have the opportunity to allow Christ to bless their families and communities. Pray for Christians to provide the Hijazi with gospel recordings, fine-tuned Bible radios and biblical stories of Jesus. Ask God to give them a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the cross.