ABSTRACT
The earliest form of religious education was given in the mosque by the “Imam” or a passing visitor from Iraq, Najd or Ihsa, who was “learned” in the matters of Islam. The relationship between trade and education was manifested in other ways as well. As competition between the Kuttabs was at its highest, the Mullas used to go to the well-known businessmen of the town with their pupils’ handwriting, and it was for the businessmen to decide which was the best handwriting and consequently the best Kuttab. The Kuttabs were open all year around, except for two weeks in the spring and on religious feasts. Some rich families founded Kuttabs to teach their own children and to teach some of the poorer children free of charge. The opening of Al-Mubarakiyah school was significant not only because it was the first organized school with a planned scheme and curriculum but also because it was initiated and administered by the people.
