There has never been a more critical time to understand the Middle East. Yet the region is often reduced to headlines—conflict, politics, and surface-level narratives. Those news stories rarely delve into the everyday existence, identity, cultures and perspectives of the people who call the region home. That’s where Connect the Cultures comes in.

On Connect the Cultures you’ll discover untold stories about the region’s people — their experiences, their thoughts and their perspectives. You’ll also find insights I’ve gained from my own personal experiences of nearly two decades on the ground in the Middle East. Here you’ll also find clear answers to core questions about the region. All of this will give you a deeper and more nuanced understanding of one of the most complex and pivotal parts of the world.

The stories below are reader favorites. Start with any of them to get  rare firsthand glimpses into the heart of Middle Eastern life, cultures and conflict.