Despite the influence of western commerce & technology, the Arabian Peninsula has retained its own distinctly Arab culture, a culture that has remained closely aligned to its desert origins, & the nomadic bedu life with its ancient hierarchical structures & tribal traditions. The age-old rhythms & customs manifest themselves throughout the Arab world to this day in the many different ways, not least in the renowned Arab hospitality & enduring ties to family & kinship. The author of ” The Arab World Handbook” proves once again to be an indispensable guide & companion for any visitor (on business or pleasure) to the fascinating & sometimes demanding land that is the Arab world. Split into two parts, ” Simple Etiquette in Arabia” & ” The Customs & Culture of Arabia”, James Peters extracts the common denomiators of etiquette in the Gulf, as well as describing the essential first steps in understanding the place, the people & the culture.