In this Issue
Our Ramadan Issue, gives you an exclusive look inside the Holy Kaaba. We also discuss Ramadan, its benefits, and share Ramadan photo stories from across the Gulf.

Feature
How the date palm came to the U.S.
It all began towards the end of the 19th C, when the U.S. Department of Agriculture sent out a group of ‘Agriculture Explorers’ to search the world for profitable crops.
Arts and Culture
In photos: Alfresco iftar in Bahrain’s Manama
A photo tour that will make you feel like you were there.
Their most cherished Ramadan memories
Our readers share their favorite memories.
Sekka Extra: The World Cup no one’s watching
This alternative to the World Cup intends to enhance global relations and international understanding.
Ramadan tents – How did they become part of the month?
Tents have also sprung up across the United Kingdom and the United States, wherever Muslim communities are present.
Inside the Holy Kaaba
Our Omani photo storyteller, Adnan Al Balushi, visits the factory in which the kiswah is made.
Are we witnessing the last days of Ramadan TV?
Ramadan is like a US Super Bowl Sunday that stretches for an entire month.
How Ramadan shines a light on bad habits
One of the most easily observable and demonstrable behavioural changes during Ramadan is the reduced frequency of swearing/cussing on social media.
Secret revealed: Kaftans’ popularity in Ramadan
Khaleeji women look up to Kuwaiti kaftan designers for inspiration and the latest trends.
Travel
Why North Island is perfect for Khaleejis
A holiday destination perfect for short holidays such as Eid, long weekends, and national holidays given the distance.
In pictures : Ramadan in…
Located in the center of old Hofuf, a city in the eastern province of Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, most reports indicate that Qaisariah Souq is approximately two centuries old.