Bedouin Culture
Hospitality or 'diyafa' is the highest Bedouin virtue. Any stranger can approach a tent and be sure of three days board, lodging and protection after which he may leave in peace.
A complex code of manners regulates this and all other relationships. Whilst there is a world of difference between the traditional nomad sitting in a remote desert settlement, and the relatively densely populated Dahab, this tradition has lasted the test of time and change of circumstances. However, if someone has a really intense dislike of a visitor to his/her home, here in Dahab the host will simply leave the unwelcome guest alone by the fire. This gesture has more force of expression than a hurling words of abuse.
The hierarchical structure of the family stands firm; it would be unthinkable to question or directly challenge their authority of elders. Shouting insults in public would be socially unacceptable and individuals, especially junior or more lowly members of a family, learn to adopt a playful and jokey manner of handling annoying situations, where most westerners would simply vent their spleen.