A Model for a Modern Middle Eastern/Islamic State

During the week at 1 pm eastern time on the Travel Channel, there is a show called Globe Trekkers.  It is a wonderful show for the 18 - 30 year old travelers.  Globe Trekkers use younger hosts to show the best and not necessarily  typical tourist highlights of what the world has to offer.  And when I say the world, I mean the world.  One episode presented the countries of Georgia and Armenia (http://www.pilotguides.com/destination_guide/middle_east_and_north_africa/georgia_and_armenia/index.php), which are not countries I have ever considered visiting.  However, this show presents what makes these poor, simple countries beautiful and full of life.

This past Monday (6/25/2007), the episode consisted of the Arab Gulf States (United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Oman).  From various "Fabulous Life Of..." episodes, I have heard about the wealth and prestige of Dubai in the UAB, but I have never know anything of the culture.  Like most, I assumed that since UAB is in the Middle East and neighbors Saudi Arabia, that it has a very Islamic conservative culture.  However, this show has proven my assumption false.  This episode showed how oil and western influence has brought this country (Dubai in particular) into the 21st century at rapid speeds.  I learned that a majority of the country lives comfortably, education and universal healthcare is provide from oil profits, and that women are free to practice Islam to the degree of conservatism to their choice.  Maybe women are swayed by family decisions, but it is not Islamic therefore Gov't enforce laws for women to cover their heads.  Along with this freedom for women, the city and country itself have massive and architecturally modern skyscrapers bursting out of the desert.  It is an awesome sight, and my choice for my next international vacation.

My point of noting Globe Trekkers, is that UAB and even Kuwait are great examples of Middle Eastern/Islamic countries maintaining their religious values, but having the guts to join the rest of the world in the 21st century.  These states should be a model for converting and helping other Islamic countries in advancing without depleting them of their heritage.  The first country that should look to their neighbors is Iraq.  This is an another reason why we should see Iraq through.  The possibilities are endless for the Middle East.  It is the birthplace of modern civilization as we know it, which brings rich historical relevance to the region.  The area is wealthy in the natural resource of oil, which obviously can fund change and development.   Change may not come rapidly, meaning we MUST STAY THE COURSE.  I believe that change is possible within 2 - 3 generations.  We must push out the radicalism of the current culture before change can happen.  This show helped me realize this and reinforced my stance of staying to stabilize Iraq and eventually the Middle East.