SaudiDialect
NewsLetter
March
Edition
In this issue, we take you beyond the language and into the heart of Saudi culture.
Learning the Saudi dialect isn’t just about words it’s about understanding how people truly communicate in real life.
In this edition, we take you on a journey through Saudi culture, from traditional flavors to inspiring figures and iconic destinations.
Discover the story behind Marqooq, one of Saudi Arabia’s most beloved traditional dishes, explore the impact of Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah as a leading Saudi figure, and step into the historic beauty of Al Abu Sarah Palaces in Abha.
We also bring you closer to the vibrant cultural scene with highlights from this month’s events, where heritage meets modern Saudi life.
All of this is designed to help you not only learn the Saudi dialect, but truly connect with the culture, people, and everyday life in Saudi Arabia.
Marqooq: A True Saudi Homemade Experience
Marqooq is one of the most well-known traditional dishes in Saudi Arabia, often associated with home, family, and warmth. It stands out for its rich taste and unique texture, combining broth and dough in one hearty dish.
The base of Marqooq starts with a flavorful meat broth, usually made with lamb cooked alongside onions, garlic, and tomatoes. A blend of spices such as cumin, black pepper, and dried lime (loomi) is added, giving the dish its distinctive depth of flavor. As the broth develops, vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, pumpkin, and carrots are included, creating a balanced and nutritious meal.
What makes Marqooq truly unique is the dough. Thin sheets of dough are rolled out, cut, and added directly into the simmering broth. As they cook, they absorb the rich flavors, becoming soft and perfectly integrated with the rest of the ingredients.
More than just a meal, Marqooq represents the simplicity and authenticity of Saudi cuisine. Each bite brings together meat, vegetables, and dough in a comforting and satisfying way, making it a favorite for many.
Cultural Cue
Marqooq
✎𓂃 Saudi Famous Figure : Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah: A Symbol of Humanity and Leadership
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah is one of Saudi Arabia’s most respected figures in the medical field and humanitarian work. He is widely known for his dedication to saving lives and improving healthcare, both locally and globally.
Throughout his career, Dr. Al-Rabeeah has played a major role in leading complex medical operations and supporting people in need. He is also recognized for his leadership in humanitarian efforts, especially through his work with international relief programs.
What makes Dr. Al-Rabeeah truly inspiring is not only his professional success, but also his commitment to compassion, service, and making a real difference in people’s lives. He represents a powerful example of how knowledge and humanity can come together to create lasting impact.
“Humanity comes first”
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah
Learning about influential Saudi figures helps language learners connect with the cultural and intellectual context behind the Saudi dialect. Through voices like Dr. Al-Rabeeah, learners can better understand the values, ideas, and perspectives that shape communication in Saudi society, something we aim to share at SaudiDialect.com.
It is not related to place, religion, or politics, but is based on science and humanity
| Arabic | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| لا علاقة للأمر | laa ‘alaaqah lil-amr | no relation to the matter |
| بالمكان أو الدين | bil-makaan aw ad-deen | to place or religion |
| أو السياسة بل | aw as-siyaasah bal | or politics, rather |
| يرتكز على العلم | yartakiz ‘ala al-‘ilm | is based on science |
| والإنسانية | wa l-insaaniyyah | and humanity |
╰┈➤At SaudiDialect Online Course, every lesson has color–coded words, supported by audio and video to help you learn and remember words more easily. Interactive exercises and feedback are also included to guide your progress and reinforce your learning.
Learn Arabic Letters the SaudiDialect Way
We've launched a complete Arabic basics course focused on one thing — helping you truly understand Arabic letters in a simple and practical way.
This is not just about memorizing the alphabet. Letter Lab teaches you how letters actually work, connect, and form real words — step by step.
You can access it inside SaudiDialect, or take it as a standalone course if you want to focus only on the Arabic basics.
A simple, structured way to start reading Arabic with confidence.
A Cultural Journey Through the Years
Each year highlights a special theme that reflects creativity, heritage, and the future.
The Year of Arabic Calligraphy
Arabic calligraphy is not just writing — it's an art form that reflects culture, identity, and history. In 2023, the beauty of Arabic letters and their artistic expression was celebrated across generations.
The Year of Arabic Poetry
Arabic poetry has long been a powerful voice of emotions, stories, and traditions. In 2024, the focus was on celebrating poetic heritage and inspiring new generations to appreciate the rhythm and beauty of Arabic words.
The Year of Handicrafts
Handicrafts represent the creativity and daily life of past generations. In 2025, traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and embroidery were highlighted as a way to preserve cultural identity and celebrate handmade artistry.
The Year of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is shaping the future of how we live and learn. In 2026, the spotlight is on innovation, technology, and the growing role of AI in education, business, and everyday life.
Al Abu Sarah Palaces
Where History Meets Nature in Abha
Nestled in the charming village of Al-Azizah, near Al Soudah in Abha, the Al Abu Sarah Palaces stand as one of the most captivating heritage landmarks in Saudi Arabia’s Asir region. Surrounded by lush green mountains and cool highland air, these historic palaces offer visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Built in 1835 by Sheikh Laheq Abu Sarah, the site consists of three iconic structures: Qasr Waze‘, Qasr Aziz, and Al-Musalla Fortress. Constructed from local stone and juniper wood, and coated with traditional qadad, the palaces were designed to serve both as comfortable homes and strong defensive fortresses. Their thick walls, small windows, and multi-level architecture reflect the ingenuity of traditional Asiri building techniques.
After a careful restoration completed in 2016, the palaces have been transformed into a vibrant tourist destination. Today, visitors can explore rooms once used for guests, storage, and daily living, while enjoying stunning views of surrounding farms and mountains.
What Happened This Month
The Islamic University Hosts the Cultural Festival with Participation from Over 95 Nationalities
The Islamic University continues to promote cultural exchange by organizing the 12th edition of the Cultural Festival, bringing together students from more than 95 nationalities over the course of seven days filled with diverse activities.
This festival is considered one of the university’s most prominent annual events, offering a unique platform where students from around the world come together to showcase the richness of their cultures. Each country is represented through dedicated booths that highlight traditional clothing, customs, arts, and heritage, reflecting the identity of each nation.
The festival provides visitors with a valuable opportunity to explore multiple cultures in one place, helping to broaden perspectives and deepen mutual understanding among different communities. It also reinforces the values of dialogue, coexistence, and tolerance within an academic environment that celebrates diversity and human connection.
Beyond cultural displays, the event also plays an important role in developing teamwork skills among students. Participants collaborate in organizing their country booths and presenting their cultures in a way that reflects unity and shared purpose. It also serves as a platform for exchanging experiences and building meaningful relationships based on respect and understanding.
This annual event reflects the Islamic University’s commitment to supporting cultural initiatives that combine education with global openness, while promoting peace, harmony, and mutual respect among different cultures. The Cultural Festival stands as a powerful example of how diversity can thrive when brought together in one place
HAPPENED
THIS
March
Society News
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