Gulf Bedouin in United Arab Emirates

Gulf Bedouin in United Arab Emirates

The name "Bedouin" is derived from the Arab word bedu. It is a term used for those groups who migrate with their herds. Today, many Bedouin live as semi-nomads. Political borders are of little importance to the Bedouin, although various government restrictions are now having more affect on their migratory lifestyle than in times past. While most of the Bedouin are Sunni Muslims (many of the Malikite branch), there is still a basic belief in spirits known as jinnis. The jinnis are, according to Muslim legend, spirits capable of assuming human or animal form and exercising supernatural influence over humans.

Ministry Obstacles

It's not easy to establish long-term, trusting relationships with the semi-nomadic Bedouin. Special effort is needed to befriend these people.

Outreach Ideas

Gospel radio may be very effective in reaching the Bedouin. Pray for excellent programming that will capture the interest of the Bedouin, and that they will find these broadcast frequencies.

Scripture Focus

"I will praise the Lord as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath."  Psalm 146:2

Scripture Prayer

Pray for the Lord to raise up people from this people group with this kind of dedication to the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray the few believers in Jesus among the Bedouin will have hungry hearts to be real disciples of Christ. Pray they will live holy lives, and learn to live joyously as they are filled with the Lord's Spirit. Pray they will not be fearful to bear testimony to the Lord's goodness. Pray that many Gulf Bedouins will come to love God with their whole being and will walk in His ways.Pray the Bedouin tribes will be able to make necessary adjustments to the changing conditions of the 21st century. Pray their children will have opportunities to attend schools.