Arab, Syrian in Kuwait

Introduction / History

The Levant Arabs settled all over the Arabian Peninsula and later migrated to North Africa. They are spread from Israel to Kuwait and as far east as Iran. "Levant" is a broad term that includes several groups of Arabs: the Jordanian, Palestinian, Iraqi, Chaldean, and Syrian Arabs. Each of these speaks a different form of the Arabic language.

Before the Syrian Civil War began in 2011, there were already 18 million Syrian Arabs in Diaspora. This earlier group was mainly comprised of people seeking economic opportunities, though there were also political refugees. Most of these people have financial and educational means. They are (to various degrees) assimilated into a different culture.

Most of the Syrian war refugees are in Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey or Germany. They also live in dozens of other countries including Kuwait.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Syrians were among the first to go to Kuwait as guest workers. Some Syrians in Kuwait are second-generation. They work a variety of jobs from stone masons, and construction workers to butchers to high-paying professional jobs. They are caught in a strange situation. They are only allowed to stay in Kuwait for a certain period, but because of the civil war, they can’t return to Syria. Kuwait is not allowing new arrivals from Syria. Though they are usually not refugees themselves, Syrians are concerned about friends and family in their home country.

Most Syrian Arab marriages are monogamous. In the past, all marriages were arranged by the parents; however, it is becoming more acceptable for young people to choose their mates.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Syrian Arabs in Kuwait are Shafiite Muslims or Alawites. The Shafiites are one of four schools of Sunni Islam. There are Shia splinter groups among them, namely the Twelvers and Imamis. However, Syrian Arabs have also had a strong Orthodox or Maronite Christian presence.

What Are Their Needs?

Syria is unstable. It is very difficult to live in one part of the world knowing your loved ones are in danger. This takes an emotional toll on Syrians in Kuwait.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Diaspora situation will provide Syrian Arabs the chance to embrace the only savior.
Pray that Syrian refugees will spend time reading God’s word and discipling new Christian believers.
Pray for Syrian Arab Christians who will disciple others and teach them to do the same.
Pray for Syrian Arab family leaders to have dreams of the victorious and righteous Christ and share their experiences with many others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project