Because of my religion, I was faced with some additional risks by embarking on this exciting journey to the Muslim world. Before departing, I was warned to conceal my Judaism in various ways, ranging from simply covering my Israeli passport stamps, to even wearing a cross and pretending to be Christian. These initial cautions not only scared me, but also astonished me. While I have always been aware of anti-Semitism in the world, there has been very few times in my life that I have even considered concealing my Judaism until this trip. More alarming than the pre-departure advice, was a conversation that I had with a local couple (expatriates from Belgium and Canada) on the plane, who were “impressed” by my bravery and wished me “luck” entering the Arab country with a Hebrew sticker on the back of my passport. However, with a rapid heart and sweaty palms, I made it through customs in the Dubai airport.
From then on, things seemed to be less frightening and similarly stress-free; I found the city of Dubai, in general, to be extremely diverse and tolerant. In fact, there are many facets of this experience that mimic my student tour of Israel last winter break and others characteristic of the winters I have spent with my family in Scottsdale. However, throughout the trip, my religion did seem to be on the tip of my tongue and in the back of my mind. Conflictingly, there were many times where I desired to compare the Islamic traditions and Emirati culture to those of Judaism and Israel, but also there were many times when I felt it best to stay quiet.
Most surprising to me was that the slight anti-Semitism that I did encounter was during my time spent with some of the Emirati youth. Whether it was the university students “boycott” of Starbucks because of supposed Jewish ties, or simply a discussion of marriage practices with an American born Emirati, I was shocked that children growing up during such progressive times, in such a tolerant city, could still posses these biases.
Therefore, while I did not feel that my religion posed any danger and while I would not deter any other Jew from visiting the country, I do feel my Judaism created a perspective for me different from the other students’. Partially, this trip made me sad. To me, it is frustrating to see that two countries and peoples, so brilliant, progressive, and similar in so many ways, cannot recognize and support each other. From what I know about Judaism and Israel, and from what I learned about Islam and the UAE, I know there is much that could be learned and shared between the two. However, this trip primarily helped me to appreciate the religious freedom and tolerance I am allowed in the United States. This trip has made me a smarter and more understanding Jew, American, and student; definitely worth the “risk.”
About the Author: Danielle Rubin is an undergraduate pursuing a business degree at Washington University in St. Louis.
