ABSTRACT
The chapter sheds light on problematic definitions of the region referred to as Arabia. It starts with two direct questions: what is Arabia, and who are the Arabs? The attempt to answer these questions uncovers a multiplicity of prejudices that seem to hinder our current ability to conceptualize the binding characteristics of Arab people today, making it also difficult to assess the historical development of the region and its future urban possibilities. So, this chapter attempts to locate possible gaps in our current understanding of Arab-ness; to define the parameters of what is considered Arabian; to discuss and evaluate the different sources of knowledge we currently have about the subject; and finally, to outline a general framework for re-interpreting it.
