Jiddah Travel Forum

My good friend is Arabic and is due in September. It is a girl. I was wondering what would the appropriate gift be that follows the Arabic tradition for her and the new baby. I asked her and she did tell me about killing the sheep, shaving the head, and the naming celebration. Is there anything else. I want to do something that will mean a lot to her and her family. Her husband is arabic but she is an international child. Her Mother is "I think" is caucasian but her father I know is Arabic. Also, what are some things not to do that would be seen as bad taste. Traditional things that Americans or westerns do that would be offensive to her arabic traditions so that I do not do them.

I think its very sweet what you want to do for your friend. What she told you about the sheep and all pretty much cover it! I recently gave birth myself and my other western friends (Im also married to saudi) got together and threw me a shower. Just your typical american baby shower. They invited a few saudi women and they all had a blast!
Women here dont really give traditional gifts...Anything you'd like to get as a gift yourself would be great. Strollers, clothes, toys, car seat, Ive even been given perfumes and body stuff for when I need a nice pick me up. If there are more traditional things done its usually done by the immidiate family. If throwing her a shower isnt an option, then just get her something nice for the baby! I'm sure whatever you get she'll love.

I will tell you some of the arabic tradition when your friend gives birth.
Most of people here make the coffee and tea and two or more types of healthy food (home made food).. and take these with them for the woman.
As for the gift, it can be money, or things for the new born girl and her mother like shower shampoo, clothes, shoes, jewelary

I hope this helps