The wandering Bedouin who live in the Arabian Peninsula live in black tents which are usually about 10 meters long and 4 meters wide. These tents consist of several strips of cloth sewn together which can be added to or reduced according to the needs of the family. The tent is pitched on three parallel lines of poles. Usually, one side is left open and it is always anchored firmly enough with taut ropes to stand up to the fiercest winds.

The material for the tent is thick and hard-wearing. It is woven by the women on rough looms from goat and camel hair.

Inside the tent the women’s compartment is often divided off by a shoulder-high screen. The side nearer the entrance is reserved for the men and for receiving guests. The part occupied by the head of the family has fireplace and every thing necessary for the ceremony of making and drinking coffee.

The furniture consists of cushions, rugs and leather pouffes. The most important item is a copper tray on a folding wooden table which is sometimes elaborately carved and decorated with inlaid ivory.