For example, in May 2005, representatives of several Christian churches in the country signed an agreement with the Government of Qatar for a 50-year lease on a large piece of property in the capital Doha on which they intend to erect six churches at their own expense. Also the a new constitution explicitly provides for freedom of worship, of association and public assembly though there are some restrictions.

From Sand to Pearls to Oil

Qatar may be best known around the world as the home of Al-Jazeera, the controversial Arabic language satellite television news channel. For centuries Qatar was simply a peninsula of sand jutting into the Gulf of Arabia where the local Arabs were building ships and sustaining themselves through pearl hunting, fishing and weaving. Oil was discovered in Qatar in 1939. Presently oil and gas account for more than 55% of GDP, roughly 85% of export earnings, and 70% of government revenues. Qatar even has the potential to supply up to one third of the world's natural gas resources transforming Qatar into one of the world's richest countries. As much as 75% of the population is comprised of immigrant workers including Arabs, Iranians, Indians, Pakistanis, Europeans, Americans, Filipinos and others.

The Wahhabi

Qatar embraced Islam very early in the 7th century. Later Qatar maintained ties with the Ottoman Empire and the Khalifate. Today Qatar is highly influenced by the Wahhabi Islamic reform movement's interpretations of Islamic law on a political and social level. Wahhabis believe their role as a movement is to restore Islam from what they perceive to be innovations, superstitions, deviances, heresies and idolatries. It is a Sunni movement very opposed to Shi'a tendencies.

Non-Muslims may not proselytise, and the government regulates the publication, importation, and distribution of non-Islamic religious books and materials. No foreign missionary groups can operate openly in the country. The number of Christians from all denominations and levels of commitment in the country is estimated at 8-9 percent, primarily foreign workers.

Flag of Qatar

Map of Qatar

Prayer Requests:

* The Al-Thani family has ruled Qatar since the mid-1800’s. Pray that the the leading members of the family would know how to wisely lead the nation. The Emir has 3 wives and 15 children.

* Pray for the church building project. There have been delays and some Muslim media have complained about the project. May the churches be refuges for many.

* Pray that nominalism, immoral and unspiritual behaviour would be greatly reduced in the Christian community. It will only be in this way that believers may gain respect in the Muslims and bring real blessing to the nation.

* Some Qataris and foreign workers are discovering Christ through the media and contacts with local believers. Pray for those who are discovering the risen Messiah as they grow in their faith.

About Qatar (World Factbook)

Ruled by the al-Thani family since the mid-1800s, Qatar transformed itself from a poor British protectorate noted mainly for pearling into an independent state with significant oil and natural gas revenues. During the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Qatari economy was crippled by a continuous siphoning off of petroleum revenues by the amir, who had ruled the country since 1972. His son, the current Amir HAMAD bin Khalifa al-Thani, overthrew him in a bloodless coup in 1995. In 2001, Qatar resolved its longstanding border disputes with both Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Oil and natural gas revenues enable Qatar to have one of the highest per capita incomes in the world.

Economy of Qatar

Oil and gas account for more than 60% of GDP, roughly 85% of export earnings, and 70% of government revenues. Oil and gas have made Qatar one of the world's faster growing and higher per-capita income countries - in 2006 per-capita income equaled that of the EU. Sustained high oil prices and increased natural gas exports in recent years have helped build Qatar's budget and trade surpluses and foreign reserves. Proved oil reserves of more than 15 billion barrels should ensure continued output at current levels for 23 years. Qatar's proved reserves of natural gas exceed 25 trillion cubic meters, more than 5% of the world total and third largest in the world. Qatar has permitted substantial foreign investment in the development of its gas fields during the last decade and is expected to become the world's top liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter in 2007. Qatar is also trying to attract foreign investment in the development of its non-energy projects by further liberalizing the economy.

Statistics for Qatar

Population: 848,016 (July 2011 est.) World rank #160

Life Expectancy at Birth: 75.7 years. World rank #84

Ethnic Groups: Arab 40%, Indian 18%, Pakistani 18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%

Religions: Muslim 77.5%, Christian 8.5%, other 14%

Languages: Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language

Literacy: 89%

School life expectancy: 12 years

Modern Standard Arabic is a major language in Qatar, but also much Farsi is spoken. Listen to or download Farsi Gospel Recordings here ...>>

"Qatar Rides the Oil boom - The Pearl - Video

While most countries are suffering from high oil prices, they are also fuelling one of the biggest transfers of wealth in history. A video with a difference.

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| · Population: 541,000

The first inhabitants of Abu Dhabi were Bedouins (nomads) of the Bani Yas tribe whose customs remained unchanged for a thousand years. However, the new generation sees little need to retain the traditions.

* As the young people put aside the culture of their fathers, pray that this void would not be filled with secular materialism, but by a hunger for God and His truth.

As the modern city of Abu Dhabi continues to grow, new high-rise apartments and offices are replacing decaying 1960s compound homes built with the first oil revenues. As the city grows its inhabitants face all the issues of any large city. Many who are lonely, needy, and feeling trapped are ready to hear good news.

* Pray that those Christians working in the city will have open eyes to see these needs and also have compassionate hearts.

Before the advent of oil, Abu Dhabi was a small fishing village on an island. Now it is a large modern city with outstanding architecture; it is also the political and financial centre of the UAE. The pre-eminence of this city and its role in the UAE brings with it responsibilities both to the federation and to the entire Arabian Gulf region.

* Pray that decision-makers in the capital will be wise and compassionate stewards of this influence and authority. Pray that the Christians whom they may meet prove to be faithful role models, influential work colleagues, and examples of Christ.

Dubai

| · Population: (674,100 in city and 1,510,000 in the metropolitan area)

Shopping malls are the main place of recreation during the hot summers in Dubai. Materialism and the lust for money make Dubai a somewhat "cut-throat" business environment.

Flag of the UAE

Map of the UAE

* Pray that Muslims turn to Christ instead of secular materialism. Remember in prayer those Christians who seek to bear witness to Christ through their business activities in Dubai, since this is an especially stressful calling.

The Burj Al Arab, a seven-star hotel, is an image recognised around the world and identified with Dubai. The Burj, or "tower", symbolises more of Dubai than just an amazing feat of architecture. Decadent opulence, craving for the biggest and best, and a desire to be seen as a modern city in the eyes of the world underlie many of the local building projects.

* Pray that people of the Emirates will see that their need for significance is best met in a personal relationship with Christ.

Many local families have grand palaces for homes. The ruling sheikhs look after their people well by providing homes, education, and financial assistance. Many are discovering that material comfort does not necessarily bring happiness.

* Pray for the witness of the many Christian servants (mostly Filipinos and Indians) who live in these homes. May they have courage to serve their employers as they would the Lord, so that their employers may desire to serve the Lord Jesus.

"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Matt 5:16)

Al Ain

| · Population: 318,000

Al Ain is the birthplace of the late UAE ruler, Sheikh Zayed al Nayhan. On the crossroads of a significant desert trade route, Al Ain is steeped in an influential past. The only large inland city in the country, and a border city with the Omani township of Buraimi, Al Ain is as much today a place of crossroads as it was in ancient times.

* Pray that this city will also be a crossroads with the gospel message proclaimed enthusiastically by the many who visit there.

Al Ain's green oasis feel is only possible through the presence of water. Irrigation systems are used like arteries to supply groves of trees with water from its source in the mountains. The Arabic word for water ("mai") is used figuratively to describe something easy, sweet or pleasant.

* Pray that the people from Al Ain would come to know the One who is the source of living waters. Pray that they will come to know Christ as their "living water".
Mountain ranges dominate the Al Ain oasis. The rainfall on these mountains is trapped underground to supply the springs, which water the oasis.

Evidence of civilisations 3,000 years old speaks of a time when this region was cooler and more fertile. Even within living memory there is talk of when it rained more and these plains supported wandering herds of goats and camels.

* Pray that the searing spiritual dryness of this place will be replaced with "streams in the desert".

The information on these pages has been provided by the "Praying Through the Arabian Peninsula" intercession effort. We strongly recommend using their prayer material (printed and digital), which is available from the website www.pray-ap.info.

Video: UAE

Sky from Philip Bloom on Vimeo.

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Praying for the people in Saudi Arabia’s holy city

Mecca is the spiritual centre of the Islamic world. The religious sites participated in by the pilgrims make Mohammed’s teaching and activities more real. Each day millions of Muslims turn toward Mecca five times each day during their daily prayers. Thousands of people work in Mecca managing, maintaining and cleaning hotels, working in restaurants, transporting food, selling food, working as guides, selling gold jewelery and souvenirs.

Many more work in the transportation industry driving buses and taxis. The banking industry is important as well because the millions of pilgrims who arrive in the region need cash. All types of public health activities (doctors, nurses, inspectors, ambulance personnel and trash pick-up workers) are present trying to assure good health and safety for the millions of visitors. The general coordinator of “30 Days” even studied in university with some men who became public health administrators for the pilgrimage. In recent years the construction industry has been transforming the area around the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba in order to receive even more pilgrims. People who come to Christ in Mecca are rare but some have been known to find the Lord in this city of 1.7 million people.

Saudi Flag

Map of Saudi Arabia

Prayer Starters:

• Use Revelation 4:11 and 5:4-14 to declare that Jesus is worthy to be worshiped by the people of Mecca (from the lowest labourer to the princes of the Saudi royal family).
• Pray for friendships, dreams, visions, internet, print and media exposure to multiply the gospel to the many workers listed above (cite them by name).
• Pray for new believers to be well integrated into believing communities.

Listen to the Podcast - DAY 03 - Mecca's Working Class

Video: Renewing The City of Makkah [1:20]

poor quality but it gives an idea

The Dates for Ramadan

The dates for Ramadan are established according to the Islamic lunar calendar of 354 days. Starting 11 days earlier each year, it takes about 33 years for the Islam calendar to go through all the seasons. Because of the changing nature of the Islamic year the 2011 booklet is actually our 20th edition. There have been 20 Islamic lunar years since the beginning of “30-Days” in March 1993.

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As the conversation continued he said he was from Peshawar on the Afghan border which is a real hotspot for militant and violent Islamists. He described himself as a Pashtun, one of the great tribal peoples of South Asia. He had developed enough language ability to speak some English, Arabic and Hindi in addition to Urdu. One of his last comments was striking. "Working all night I see a lot of things which I would prefer not to see. There are too many prostitutes here. Too many Ruskies (Russians), too many illegal things at night."

The Dark Side

Dubai is a small city state in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In recent years, however, it has become a world class city of gleaming towers and walled villas. Dubai’s shopping centres even have a ski slope, an aquarium and under water zoo along with luxurious shops. But unfortunately the city is not only made of outward beauty. About 85% of the inhabitants are non-Emiratis. A majority of the foreign workers come from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and other Arab countries. Many live in substandard or crowded housing and work terribly long hours. Muslims, including the local Emiratis, make up about 50%+ of the 1.6 million population (In all the United Arab Emirates - population 5 million - the figures are: Muslim 65%, Hindu 17%, Christian 9% Buddhist 4% other or unknown 5%). While the vast majority of foreign workers are men, women from various countries have also arrived mostly working in housekeeping and service jobs while some are employed in Dubai’s night life as indicated by the Pakistani taxi driver. The city definitely has its dark side. The large amounts of money in Dubai’s financial and real estate markets attracts all kinds of legal and illegal activities (1 Tim 6:10).

Flag of the UAE

Map of the UAE

Prayer Starters for Dubai

Many of the foreign workers who consider themselves Christian are actually fairly nominal in their faith. Some are true and committed believers in the Messiah.

• Pray that these believers may really provide an example to Muslims and non-Muslims about what it means to walk in God’s ways (Mt. 4:16, John 8:12).
• Pray that the knowledge of God could come to the Emiratis, other Arabs, the Pakistanis and the Bangladeshis. Emirati society is especially closed to outsiders. The actual contact between Emiratis and non-Emiratis is fairly limited. Pray for openings so that all these peoples could discover the Messiah.

Video: In This City (1:51)

In This City from Salomon on Vimeo.

Shot on Canon 7D, 50mm f/1.8 and 18-200 Sigma f/3.8-5.6 50 shutter

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Praying specifically for the Utaybah tribe

There are about 150 major tribes in Saudi Arabia. This year we are asking believers to pray specifically for the Utaybah tribe (also spelled Utaiba, Otaibah or Otayba).

The Utaybah tribe has traditionally lived just north of the present Riyadh-Mecca highway in the desert between the Saudi capital, Riyadh, and Jeddah on the Red Sea. The residence of the tribal leader is Afif, a small town of 90,000 about 600 kilometres West of Riyadh.

Many Utaybah are found in Riyadh, Jeddah and as far away as Kuwait. The Utaybah tribe has historically had an important role in the Saudi army dating to the early days of the reign of Abdul Aziz Al Saud, founder of the present ruling dynasty. The Utaybah tribe is composed of three major branches: the Barga (the largest branch), the Rwog, and the Banu Saad (Sons of Saad). Each of these branches are divided into many clans and families.

The Rwog clans and families are:

• The Talhah clan including the following families: Alasa’adah, Alhufah, Alsumarrah, Alhanateesh, Algharbiah, Alkarashemah, Alddalabehah, Alghawariah, Altheebah, Alhamameed, Alhezman, Almaghaibah, Thoi Zarrag, Alghadhabeen and Alawazem.
• The Mezhem clan includes the following families: Thoi Thubait, Alothyan, Alghubaiat, Almarashedah, Alje-tha’an, Alseaheen, Thoi A’ali and Thoi A’tyah.
• The Bano Saad includes: the Albatnain, Allessah, Alsurairat and others.

Saudi Flag

Map of Saudi Arabia

Prayer Starters:

Worship God, the Lord of the desert. Read the Messianic Psalm 72:1-2. Proclaim God’s sovereignty over the desert and the Utaybah tribe. Pray for the revelation of the Messiah among them and for their salvation. See verse 9: “Let the nomads of the desert bow before him, And his enemies lick the dust.” Pray for at least one of the five sub-clans listed above. You are among some of the first persons to ever specifically mention these sub-clans in prayer.

(See the site www.LoveSaudis.com for additional information about Saudi Arabia).

Listen to the Podcast - DAY 04 - Saudi Arabian Tribes

Video: Sights from Saudi Arabia [3:56]

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Some History of Bahrain

Like many other States, Bahrain has been occupied by various political powers including the Portuguese, Iran and as a British protectorate. It became independent as a nation state in 1971. It remained dependant on pearl and shrimp fishing until the discovery of oil in 1932. During this time Bahrain used its income to develop the state. Its education has one of the highest standards in the region and has claimed the highest literacy level in the Arab world. It has developed several further education institutions with the help of expatriate skills and the increasing number of Bahrainis that return from the west with advanced degrees. Since oil levels have reduced over the past 20 years it has now become a significant Gulf Banking centre.

Freedom in Bahrain

The population of over 700.000 is about 70% Bahraini and other Arabs constitute about 10%. These would include Palestinian, Egyptian and Saudi Arabs. The rest are from Iran and Asia with a minority of Europeans. The population is 90% Muslim, the only non-Muslims would be from the expatriate community. It has one of the largest Arab Christian community in the Gulf and permits freedom of worship to the expatriate churches.

The government is officially opposed to mission work but is not very hostile towards Christianity. There is opportunity for Arab Christians to be a witness to Jesus in their workplaces and there are active house groups who have freedom to meet together.

Effective opportunities for Christian witness are Radio and literature. The International Bookfair offers opportunities to distribute Bibles and other Christian literature in Bahrain. There has been a very encouraging response to the scriptures that have been made available.

Flag of Bahrain

Map of Bahrain

Prayer Guide for Bahrain

* Pray for the work of Christian literature to a state that prides itself on it's literacy level. Pray for Hunger for the word of God.

* Pray for Arab Christians to be bold in their witness of Jesus. That their lives would reflect a Christlikeness to the people they live amongst.

* Pray for the work of Radio as it broadcasts from the Seychelles and for the finances to continue this effective work.

* Pray too, for other media tools such as Video Television and now Internet in making gospel available to the young and old alike.

Background on Bahrain (World Factbook)

Bahrain's small size and central location among Persian Gulf countries require it to play a delicate balancing act in foreign affairs among its larger neighbors. Facing declining oil reserves, Bahrain has turned to petroleum processing and refining and has transformed itself into an international banking center. Sheikh HAMAD bin Isa Al Khalifa, who came to power in 1999, has pushed economic and political reforms and has worked to improve relations with the Shi'a community. In February 2001, Bahraini voters approved a referendum on the National Action Charter - the centerpiece of Sheikh HAMAD's political liberalization program. Shia political societies participated in 2006 parliamentary and municipal elections. Al Wifaq, the largest Shia political society, won the largest number of seats in the elected chamber of the legislature. However, Shia discontent has resurfaced in recent years with street demonstrations and occasional low-level violence.

In early 2011, Bahrain's fractious opposition sought to ride a rising tide of popular Arab protests to petition for the redress of popular grievances. In mid-February, on the tenth anniversary marking the King's initiation of his democratic reform initiative, a vanguard of hardline activists - who rejected the legitimacy of the Al Khalifa regime and have sometimes instigated low-level violence - organized demonstrations in Shia neighborhoods demanding a new constitution, release of hundreds of Shia prisoners, and an end to discriminations in all sectors of society. Cycles of protestor deaths, funerals, and clashes with security forces ensued, escalating domestic tensions and leading Wifaq legislators to formally resign from the national legislature in protest in late-March 2011. Nearly a month of mostly peaceful opposition demonstrations followed before hardline elements within the Shia opposition undertook new provocative protests. The government's offers of modest political and economic concessions went and the king's "national dialogue" with the opposition - led by his son, the reform-minded Crown Prince - also languished in disagreements over procedure and preconditions. In mid-March 2011, with the backing of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) capitals - especially Riyadh and Abu Dhabi - King HAMAD put an end to the mass public gatherings and increasingly disruptive demonstrations by declaring a state of emergency and authorizing the military to take all measures to "protect the safety of the country and its citizens." Manama also welcomed a contingent of mostly Saudi and Emirati forces as part of a GCC deployment intended to help Bahraini security forces maintain order. By mid-April security forces had largely relegated demonstrations to outlying Shia neighborhoods and villages, and negotiations between the government and opposition reached a stalemate. Manama exacted retribution against opposition groups and their supporters through mass firings, arrests, and sectarian incitement.

Economy of Bahrain

With its highly developed communication and transport facilities, Bahrain is home to numerous multinational firms with business in the Gulf. Petroleum production and refining account for over 60% of Bahrain's export receipts, over 70% of government revenues, and 11% of GDP (exclusive of allied industries), underpinning Bahrain's strong economic growth in recent years. Other major segments of Bahrain's economy are the financial and construction sectors. Bahrain is actively pursuing the diversification and privatization of its economy to reduce the country's dependence on oil.

Statistics on Bahrain

Population: 1,214,705
note: includes 235,108 non-nationals (July 20011 est.) World rank #156

Life Expectancy at Birth: 78.15 years. World rank #52

Ethnic groups: Bahraini 62.4%, non-Bahraini 37.6%

Religions: Muslim (Shi'a and Sunni) 81.2%, Christian 9%, other 9.8%

Languages: Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu

Literacy: 86.5% -- Male: 88.6%, Female: 83.6%

School life expectancy: 14 years

Video: Poverty in Bahrain + differences between Shia and Sunni

This is a CNN documentary, very good.

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The Sultanate of Oman, easily accessible from Dubai, is situated in the northeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. A little smaller than the United Kingdom, its major products and industries include petroleum, dates, citrus and tropical fruit, incense, mineral oil, fisheries, and tourism. Sultan Qaboos bin Said has ruled the country with a stable government for the past 35 years. In this time Oman has built up a modern infrastructure and is trying to enlarge its economy. Its five largest cities are Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, Nizwa and Sur.

Muscat (population: 514,000)

Muscat is the capital of Oman. Omanis from all over the country come here for study, government services, economic reasons, and medical treatment. A large percentage of the population is foreigners (engineers, specialists, university teachers, skilled workers), since it has only begun building up a university system in the last 30 years.

Salalah (population: 186,000)

Salalah is situated about 1,000 km southwest of Muscat - about 11 hours by bus through barren wastes. Salalah, the only area in Oman where the monsoon rain falls, is fruitful. At its greenest time in the autumn, thousands of visitors come for the Khareef festival. Because of its connection with the Sultanate of Zanzibar, off Tanzania, many Omanis in Salalah are Swahili-speaking. There are several Christian denominations in this city.

Sohar (population: 135,000)

Sohar is said to be the home of Sindbad, the famous Omani seafaring hero. It is considered a conservative city with a traditional lifestyle. Many of the older generation have not received any schooling.

Nizwa (population: 85,000)

Nizwa is situated about 85 km west of Muscat in the mountains. For centuries, the city has been famous as a center for handicrafts, craftsmen, and the arts. However, it is also a center for superstition and the occult. Silver amulets manufactured in Nizwa are worn in many parts of the Arab world.

Sur (population: 75,000)

Sur is the least evangelized Omani city, situated in the eastern point of Oman. Historically it is known for its famous shipyards, where ships are still being built and repaired. The famous Omani dhows sailed as far as China. The population is very conservative.

Flag of Oman

Map of Oman

Prayer guide for Oman:

* In Oman, 75% of the population follows Ibadi Islam, which is generally considered heretical by Sunnis. Ibadis believe that they are the "true" Muslims, making them even more resistant to Christianity. Pray that God may bring breakthroughs.

* Omanis are friendly and hospitable but restrained. They consider it impolite to discuss religious questions, making it difficult to have deep conversations with them. This may be a result of having been persecuted by Sunnis. Pray for the Holy Spirit to open hearts for conversation.

* There are many Christians among the foreign workers in Oman. Pray that their light will shine (Matt 5:14).

Background on Oman (World Factbook)

The inhabitants of the area of Oman have long prospered on Indian Ocean trade. In the late 18th century, a newly established sultanate in Muscat signed the first in a series of friendship treaties with Britain. Over time, Oman's dependence on British political and military advisors increased, but it never became a British colony. In 1970, QABOOS bin Said al-Said ousted his father and has ruled as sultan ever since. His extensive modernization program has opened the country to the outside world and has preserved a longstanding political and military relationship with the UK. Oman's moderate, independent foreign policy has sought to maintain good relations with all Middle Eastern countries. In February and March 2011, in response to protester demands, QABOOS reshuffled his cabinet, pledged to create more government jobs, and promised to implement economic and political reforms, such as granting legislative and regulatory powers to the Council of Oman.

Economy of Oman

Oman is a middle-income economy in the Middle East with notable oil and gas resources, a substantial trade surplus, and low inflation. Tourism and gas-based industries are key components of the government's diversification strategy. By using enhanced oil recovery techniques, Oman succeeded in increasing oil production, giving the country more time to diversify, and the increase in global oil prices throughout 2010 provides the government greater financial resources to invest in non-oil sectors.

Statistics on Oman

Population: 3,027,959
note: includes 577,293 non-nationals (July 2011 est.) World rank #135

Life Expectancy at Birth: 74.22. World rank #104

Ethnic groups: Arab, Baluchi, South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi), African

Religions: Ibadhi Muslim 75%, other (includes Sunni Muslim, Shi'a Muslim, Hindu) 25%

Languages: Arabic (official), English, Baluchi, Urdu, Indian dialects

Literacy: 81.4% -- male: 86.8%, female: 73.5%

School life expectancy: 12 years

Muscat - Capital of Oman - Video

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The UAE is Complex and Diverse

The UAE is one of the most politically stable countries in the region and since the establishment of the federation; the emirates have ironed out inter-emirate squabbles and tensions, cementing that stability. The UAE is a complex and diverse place. It's a short drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, but a massive culture leap. Abu Dhabi remains deeply conservative, while Dubai is far more liberal in comparison. The northern emirates are far less developed than the economic powerhouses of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

This group of small Muslim nations has remained hidden over the centuries, but with the discovery of oil in the 1970s, they have been brought to the world's attention. As a result of the oil boom, breathtaking advances from poverty to fabulous wealth in the last 30 years has brought a tremendous transformation to this land. Building a modern society on the sand, they now have one of the highest incomes per capita in the world. Massive development schemes are funded by oil wealth. Education, health care, and social services are virtually free.

Abu Dhabi has enormous oil reserves. Dubai and Fujairah's are much smaller, and the other four emirates have little or no oil.

Change in the UAE

Of the many different tribes that make up the country's national population, very few were ever wholly nomadic. The majority of them were settled, at least for much of the year, engaging in simple agriculture, or in the age-old practice of harvesting the pearl banks and fishing. Only about 20% of the inhabitants of the UAE are nationals. The rest are all foreign workers. There are large groups of Indians, Pakistanis, Iranians and Southeast Asians. The population is, however, 95% Muslim. Sunni Islam is the religion of the state.

The radical changes over the last three decades have made the UAE citizens more cosmopolitan and open to new ideas, yet Islamic fundamentalism has increased restrictions. Many are in daily contact with foreign Christians, but not all believers have opportunities to share their faith because of the possible consequences. There is freedom to worship and witness within the expatriate communities, but no outreach to the indigenous population is officially permitted.

Flag of the UAE

Map of the UAE

Prayer Guide for the UAE

* Pray for the Christian foreign workers, that their lives and testimony would be a witness among those who share a common language.

* Pray for those who have material wealth, that they would not be satisfied with earthly riches, but that they would seek after Jesus, the greatest treasure there is to be found. (Matthew 19:23-26)

* Ask God to break the influence of the spiritual principalities and powers that are keeping the Muslims from hearing and receiving the Good News of the gospel. (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

Background on UAE (World Factbook)

The Trucial States of the Persian Gulf coast granted the UK control of their defense and foreign affairs in 19th century treaties. In 1971, six of these states - Abu Zaby, 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah, Dubayy, and Umm al Qaywayn - merged to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). They were joined in 1972 by Ra's al Khaymah. The UAE's per capita GDP is on par with those of leading West European nations. Its generosity with oil revenues and its moderate foreign policy stance have allowed the UAE to play a vital role in the affairs of the region.

Economy of the United Arab Emirates

The UAE has an open economy with a high per capita income and a sizable annual trade surplus. Despite largely successful efforts at economic diversification, about 30% of GDP is still directly based on oil and gas output, and the fortunes of the economy fluctuate with the prices of those commodities. The government has increased spending on job creation and infrastructure expansion and is opening up its utilities to greater private sector involvement. Dependence on a large expatriate workforce and oil are significant long-term challenges to the UAE's economy.

About UAE

Population: 5,148,664 (July 2011 est.) World rank #114
note: estimate is based on the results of the 2005 census that included a significantly higher estimate of net immigration of non-citizens than previous estimates

Life Expectancy at Birth: 76.51 years. World rank #71

Ethnic groups: Emirati 19%, other Arab and Iranian 23%, South Asian 50%, other expatriates (includes Westerners and East Asians) 8%
note: less than 20% are UAE citizens

Religions: Muslim 96% (Shi'a 16%), Christian, Hindu, and other 4%

Languages: Arabic (official), Persian, English, Hindi, Urdu

Literacy: 77.9% -- Male: 76.1%, Female: 81.7%

School life expectancy: 13 years

Video: Dubai - the fastest growing city in the world

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Yemen is a country with contrasting geography. Moving inland from the narrow coastal plain one quickly arrives in a relatively well watered mountainous region which eventually leads to the desert "Rub al-Khali". The capital, Sanaa, with its 1,3 million inhabitants, is located at an altitude of 2350 meters. Isolated during 1500 years, visited only by a relatively small number of foreigners, this city is legendary for its brutally. The architecturally unique old city stands proudly in the middle of modern districts swept by the clouds of dust raised by passing cars.

Christian Missionaries to Yemen

Christian missionaries came to the Arabian Peninsula around Yemen in the early 4th century and won many converts. Christianity eventually became the official religion and pagan rituals were abolished affecting the trade of incense and therefore Yemen's economy.

When Islam came to Yemen it was readily embraced as a refreshing change for most of the population. Yemen or el Yemin, was the name given by Muslims which means "the right hand side when facing East from Mecca". Some Yemenis claim they were the first to turn to Islam as a nation. Since Islam was embraced it has been the religion of almost everyone but there has never been an atmosphere of unity in the country either religiously or politically. After suffering four centuries of occupation and then division between the north and the south at the hands of the Turks and the British, Yemen eventually united as a republic in 1990.

However after 1993 elections civil war erupted with the South wanting to separate, since that time Yemen has had an unsettled peace. Little progress has been made in national life since much foreign income was lost during the Gulf war when a million Yemeni's were repatriated losing lucrative jobs in Saudi Arabia.

Khat or qat - destructive however it is spelled!

Much of the male populations meager income supports the habit of chewing "qat," (or khat) a green leaf that acts as a mild stimulant inducing euphoria when chewed. Due to its high market value qat is produced instead of coffee and other crops.

Background information on khat (qat) is on our site here ...>>

Flag of Yemen

Map of Yemen

Yemen has almost been forgotten for centuries by the western world. Renowned for its remoteness this nation has had little desire to come to terms with the rest of the world. Yemenis themselves are a hard independent people not easily touched by the Gospel message. The few known national believers are isolated without an indigenous church. As a result of the prayers of God's people over the past few years there is now a softening and growing interest from among some Yemenis. Many listen to Christian radio broadcasts from outside in Arabic and there is demand for Bibles even though it is difficult to distribute them.

Prayer is needed for this nation as the Party for Islamic reform in the country is strong and there is much pressure on Yemenis to remain Muslim.

Prayer Guide for Yemen

* Pray for the nations leaders to come to know Christ and for wisdom to rule their land in righteousness and justice.

* Pray for the heritage of Arabia Felix and prosperity to be restored.

* Pray for aid opportunities to open up in the nation for Christian workers.

* Pray for Christian Radio programmes to reach into remote villages as well as the cities.

About Yemen

Yemen , officially Republic of Yemen, republic, 207,300 sq mi (535,800 sq km), SW Asia, at the southern edge of the Arabian peninsula. The present nation of Yemen was formed in 1990, when the Yemen Arab Republic (the former Yemen or Northern Yemen) and the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (the former Southern Yemen) were unified. Yemen is bordered on the north by Saudi Arabia, on the east by Oman, on the south by the Gulf of Aden, and on the west by the Red Sea. The islands of Kamaran, in the Red Sea, Perim, in the Bab al-Mandeb, and Socotra, in the Arabian Sea, are part of Yemen. Sana is the capital; the port of Aden is the country's commercial capital.

Background on Yemen (World Factbook)

North Yemen became independent of the Ottoman Empire in 1918. The British, who had set up a protectorate area around the southern port of Aden in the 19th century, withdrew in 1967 from what became South Yemen. Three years later, the southern government adopted a Marxist orientation. The massive exodus of hundreds of thousands of Yemenis from the south to the north contributed to two decades of hostility between the states. The two countries were formally unified as the Republic of Yemen in 1990. A southern secessionist movement in 1994 was quickly subdued.

Public rallies in Sana'a against President SALIH - inspired by similar demonstrations in Tunisia and Egypt - slowly built momentum starting in late January 2011 fueled by complaints over high unemployment, poor economic conditions, and corruption. By the following month, some protests had resulted in violence, and the demonstrations had spread to other major cities. By March the opposition had hardened its demands and was unifying behind calls for SALIH's immediate ouster. Media reports indicated that as many as 100 protesters had been killed and many more injured amid the protests. Domestic and international efforts to mediate a resolution to the political crisis had not yielded a deal as of mid July.

Economy of Yemen

Yemen, one of the poorest countries in the Arab world, reported average annual growth of 3.5% from 2000 through 2006. Yemen is struggling to control excessive spending and rampant corruption. Yemen is dependent on foreign aid to finance its budget deficits and development projects. A liquefied natural gas facility is opening. Yemen has limited exposure to the international financial system and no capital markets. Yemen continues to face difficult long term challenges, including declining water resources and a high population growth rate.

Children in Yemen

The number of malnourished children under the age of five (5) years old has now exploded to 750,000 in Yemen. UNICEF says the number has been pushed up because of the turmoil in the country.

About Yemen

Population: 24,133,492 (July 2011 est.) World rank #49

Life Expectancy at Birth: 63.74 years. World rank #173

Ethnic groups: predominantly Arab; but also Afro-Arab, South Asians, Europeans

Religions: Muslim including Shaf'i (Sunni) and Zaydi (Shi'a), small numbers of Jewish, Christian, and Hindu

Languages: Arabic

Literacy: 50.2% -- Male: 70.5%, Female: 30%

School life expectancy: 9 years

Video - Yemen: Qat (2:10)

Yemen: Qat from Pete Milnes on Vimeo.

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The whole world heard about Kuwait after the Iraqi invasion of the country in 1990. Kuwait’s oil wealth has attracted people from many parts of the globe and now half of its 2.5 million people are non-nationals! About 85% of the population is Muslim (Sunni 70%, Shi'a 30%); the other 15% are Christian, Hindu and Parsi (Zorastrianism). The earliest inhabitants of Kuwait were originally from the Al Aniza Bedouin tribes who migrated from central Arabia to escape drought in the early 1700s. Attacks from the Wahhabi tribes in the interior caused them to seek protection from Great Britain. Kuwait eventually became a British protectorate in 1897 and gained its independence again in 1961.

A hundred years ago, Christians came to Kuwait and helped the Kuwaitis through medical services. Positive Christian contributions to Kuwaiti society continue today. In addition the Kuwaiti government not only allows Christianity to flourish, but also provides meeting facilities for Christian worship. On any given week, various congregations amounting to 40,000 people use the facilities to hold church services and other meetings. Christians have freedom to praise and worship, as long it is not outside of the church walls.

Flag of Kuwait

Map of Kuwait

Many Christians in Kuwait believe that the Lord has called them to be a lighthouse showing the way to God to the surrounding nations. Some pastors say the Lord reminds them to be a Bethlehem – where salvation came to the world. One pastor in Kuwait writes, “We have seen that during the last nine years, the Lord started a deep process to fulfil the destiny of this country through gathering the pastors of the many congregations. The pastors are not just concerned with their local congregation, but instead are looking for the godly transformation and blessing of Kuwait.”

Prayer points:

* Many Kuwaitis are seeking the Lord, mainly through watching the satellite television. Local Christians need to be able to disciple, train and equip those who are discovering Christ. May they become imitators of God, as dearly loved children (Ephesians 5:1).

* May the Lord continue to build a mentality centred on the Kingdom of God which is not just focused uniquely on the activities of individual churches (Mt 6:33a).

* Pray for godly Christlike leadership of the major churches (1 Timothy 3:1-13).

* Pray that Kuwaiti believers will exhibit godly values through their business activities with non-believers. (Colossians 4:5).

* Additional committed godly Christian women are needed to minister to other Kuwaiti and non Kuwaiti women (Titus 2:3-5).

* Greater religious freedom by law is desired (Acts 28:30-31).

* May God reveal himself to the younger generations of Christians and non-Christians. Some have opportunities to meet other committed Christians through travel and extensive studies abroad (perhaps a bit like the man in Acts 8:26-40).

* Pray that the Government will give land with permission to build more churches.

* In 1951 many Christian bookshops were shut down. Pray for the opening of new bookshops with permission to sell Bibles.

About Kuwait (World Factbook)

Britain oversaw foreign relations and defense for the ruling Kuwaiti AL-SABAH dynasty from 1899 until independence in 1961. Kuwait was attacked and overrun by Iraq on 2 August 1990. Kuwait spent more than $5 billion to repair oil infrastructure damaged during 1990-91. The AL-SABAH family has ruled since returning to power in 1991, and reestablished an elected legislature that in recent years has become increasingly assertive.

The country witnessed the historic election in May 2009 of four women to its National Assembly. Amid the 2010-11 uprisings and protests across the Arab world, stateless Arabs, known as bidoon, staged small protests in February and March 2011 demanding citizenship, jobs, and other benefits available to Kuwaiti nationals. Youth activist groups - supported by opposition legislators and the prime minister's rivals within the ruling family - in March of 2011 rallied for an end to corruption and the prime minister's ouster.

Kuwait's Economy

Kuwait is a small, rich, relatively open economy with self-reported crude oil reserves of about 96 billion barrels - 10% of world reserves. Petroleum accounts for nearly half of GDP, 95% of export revenues, and 80% of government income. Kuwait's climate limits agricultural development. Consequently, with the exception of fish, it depends almost wholly on food imports. About 75% of potable water must be distilled or imported.

Statistics about Kuwait

Population: 2,595,628 (includes 1,291,354 non-nationals) (July 2011 est.), world rank: 139

Life Expectancy at Birth: 77.09 years, world rank: 66

Ethnic Groups: Kuwaiti 45%, other Arab 35%, South Asian 9%, Iranian 4%, other 7%

Religions: Muslim 85% (Sunni 70%, Shi'a 30%), other (includes Christian, Hindu, Parsi) 15%

Languages: Arabic (official), English widely spoken

Literacy: 93.3% - male:94.4%, female:91%

School Life Expectancy: 12 years

See also PrayforKuwait.com: special insights and downloadable Word files on the blog section.

+ Google Map Link: Kuwait City, Kuwait

+ Listen to or download Gospel recordings in Modern Standard Arabic.

Kuwait City - Video

Photo story of Kuwait - very nice

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