Sponsored: The Australian Arab Community
The Australian Arab community is a vibrant and diverse group that has been an integral part of the country for centuries. Although Arabs have been present in Australia since the early days of European settlement, sizable numbers did not arrive until the middle of the 19th century when they began to come as indentured laborers, mainly from Lebanon and Syria.
Since then, successive waves of Arab migrants have arrived from a variety of countries, including Palestine, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and more recently, Yemen and Sudan. According to the 2016 census, there are now over 200,000 people of Arab ancestry living in Australia, making them one of the country’s largest migrant groups.
The majority of Australian Arabs live in Sydney and Melbourne where they have established vibrant communities that enrich the cultural life of these cities. Arabs have also made significant contributions to many different aspects of Australian society, including politics, business, academia, sport, and the arts.
While there are many different nationalities and cultures represented within the community, there are also many similarities. In general, the Australian Arab community is family-oriented, hard-working, and hospitable. Let’s take at some of the most noticeable things about this wonderful community.
Its diversity has to be considered one of the most noticeable
One of the most noticeable things about the Australian Arab community is its diversity. Arabs have been immigrating to Australia for centuries, and as a result, there is a wide range of nationalities and cultures represented. Lebanese, Syrian, Egyptian, Iraqi, Yemeni, and Palestinian Arabs make up the majority of the community, but there are also significant numbers of Moroccan, Algerian, Sudanese, and Tunisian Arabs.
Values remain the same regardless of lifestyle choices
This diversity is reflected in the way that members of the Australian Arab community live their lives. While some Arabs continue to dress traditionally and live in close-knit communities, others have adopted a more westernized lifestyle, in terms of dress and even in regard to activities enjoyed. For instance, many have immersed themselves in Australian culture as they enjoy using the best online casinos Australia has available, with gambling a rather popular pastime for many Down Under. Nevertheless, there are certain values and traditions that remain important to the vast majority of Australian Arabs.
Family is one of the most important things
Family is one of the most important things to Australian Arabs. In general, families are large and extended family members often play a significant role in day-to-day life. Family gatherings are common and usually revolve around food. Meals are often shared amongst several family members and friends and it is not uncommon for people to drop in unannounced.
Hospitable people
Australian Arabs are also renowned for their hospitality. Visitors are always made to feel welcome in Arab homes and are often treated to traditional dishes such as kibbeh (a type of meatball), falafel (fried chickpea balls), and shawarma (marinated meat that has been cooked on a rotating spit).
Hard-working
Members of the Australian Arab community tend to be hard workers. They place a high value on education and many Arabs go on to graduate from university or college. Arab Australians also have a strong work ethic and are known for being entrepreneurial. In fact, Arabs were some of the first Australians to open businesses in many different industries including food services, construction, real estate, transport, and retail.
Conclusion
The Australian Arab community is an integral part of Australian society. It is a diverse group of people who share common values such as family orientation, hard work, and hospitality. If you ever have the chance to meet someone from the Australian Arab community, you will be sure to be impressed by their warm hospitality and delicious food!
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