by Dalal, age 9 from Kuwait City, Kuwait, asks Santa about Christmas weddings, the Persian Gulf, and Kuwait’s Christian expatriate community.
Dear Santa, my name is Dalal, and I am nine years old. I live in Kuwait City, Kuwait, where my jidda says our tall glowing towers along the water light up the whole skyline every single night.
Dear Dalal, a glowing skyline like that is one of the easiest, prettiest landmarks I get to fly toward all December, your jidda picked a truly dazzling hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Do you like Christmas weddings? My auntie is getting married right around the holidays this year.
I love a good Christmas wedding, Dalal, twinkling lights and a joyful celebration make for a wonderful combination. Your auntie picked a truly festive time to start a whole new chapter.
My teacher says Kuwait is a small country right on the Persian Gulf, known for its oil industry. Is that true?
It is true, Dalal, Kuwait sits along the Persian Gulf, and its oil industry has shaped much of the country’s modern growth. I always enjoy that glittering coastline on my way in to visit you.
My jidda says most people in Kuwait are Muslim, but many workers from other countries who are Christian celebrate Christmas here quietly. Is that true?
It is true, Dalal, Kuwait is home to a large community of workers from countries like the Philippines and India, many of whom are Christian and keep their own quiet Christmas traditions alive. Wherever I find even a small gathering celebrating, I am always glad to bring a little extra warmth to their night.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Dalal Al-Fahad
Kuwait City, Kuwait
P.S. Can you bring my auntie extra good luck for her Christmas wedding?
Already arranged, Dalal, a wedding this festive deserves all the luck available.
