While driving through the Arabian desert in search of a campsite, the author and a friend encounter Ahmet, a hospitable local man. He warmly invites them to his land, gives a tour of his property, and offers a place to camp. Later, he returns with his family for a moonlit dinner in the dunes.
Agmetshares his story: married to his first cousin as tradition dictates, he now plans to take a second wife, as is common in his culture. He also has a Filipino girlfriend in the capital—arranged online and supported through a jewelry shop he set up for her. Though he cares for her, marriage is out of the question; only an Arab Muslim woman can become his wife.
Despite the rising costs of dowries, Ahmet is determined. He has already chosen a second cousin’s daughter and plans to propose soon.
The next morning, after a desert sunrise and a home-cooked breakfast, the guests continue their journey, leaving behind a memorable tale of tradition, modernity, and desert hospitality.
