Science Museum of Minnesota - Arabia

Ask Hamzah

Have you ever wondered what life in Saudi Arabia is like? Maybe you've heard about it in the news and are eager to learn more. The Science Museum's newest Omnitheater film, Arabia, will take you on an exploration of Saudi Arabia alongside Hamzah Jamjoom as he sets out to create a film about the land, history, and culture of his heritage.

Hamzah Jamjoom is the first-ever Saudi Arabian film student at Chicago's DePaul University. Born and raised in the city of Jeddah, he came to the U.S. at the age of 17, accompanying his college-age sister. While in America, he found that people were very curious about where he came from and asked him a lot of questions about his culture. He discovered that Americans often have a very limited picture of Saudi Arabia.

This Week's Question

Do you feel the renewed popularity of the folk dancing and abundance of Middle Eastern restaurants in the U.S. help relations and cultural understanding?
- Kali - Albert Lea, MN

View Hamzah's video response here.

Previous Questions

A lot of people in America, in general, have a negative mind-set about the religion of Islam. Can you please explain the religion? - Hassan - St. Paul, MN View Hamzah's video response here.
With your film only taking place in Saudi, does the film portray the rest of the Arab world? Does it show other Arab cultures? - Sam - Minneapolis, MN View Hamzah's video response here.
Can you speak to the culture of music in Arabia and as it is used in the film Arabia? - Julia - Minneapolis, MN View Hamzah's video response here.
I'm traveling to the United Arab Emerates. Can you give me some tips about how to dress, behave, and act respectfully while interacting with the local culture? Also, advise on must-see places. - Caleb - Maple Grove, MN View Hamzah's video response here.
What do you find is the biggest misperception Americans have about Arabia? - Janice - Burnsville, MN View Hamzah's video response here.
How many gallons of oil does Saudi Arabia drill per day? - Maxx - Minnetrista, MN View Hamzah's video response here.
With Saudi Arabia having a minimal film industry, how did you find your passion for film-making? What impact do you anticipate films will have on Saudi culture as films become more accepted? - Lindi - Laguna Niguel, CA View Hamzah's video response here.