In February 2025, Maria Rebecca Zarb travelled to Saudi Arabia to conduct linguistic fieldwork with the Rashayda tribe. Her travels spanned a wide variety of landscapes across the kingdom, where she encountered Rashayda in the urban hubs of Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as on the striking volcanic terrain of Khaybar and the vast, desert plains of Hāʔil. Throughout her time in Saudi Arabia, Rebecca was met with a warm and gracious reception by the Rashayda people. Not only were they eager to share their unique dialect with her, but they also welcomed her into their communities, offering insightful glimpses into their rich history and vibrant cultural traditions. The tribe’s generosity extended beyond language, as they regaled her with fascinating anecdotes and showed her the intricate beauty of their villages.
This immersive experience allowed Rebecca to deepen her understanding of the Rashayda language and culture, fostering a connection that transcended mere academic research and embraced a profound exchange of knowledge and hospitality.
