Syria mandates burkinis for women at public beaches: What to know The decree has sparked concern that Syria’s new government could be veering toward a more strict Islamist governance system. Syria
What to know about 1,500-year-old Byzantine tomb uncovered in Syria A contractor found a tomb complex dating back to the Byzantine Empire in Syria's Idlib province, just as many residents have started returning to their homes following the fall of Assad. Syria
In photos: Muslims kick off Eid al-Adha across the Middle East The holiday’s arrival cast a spotlight on deepening humanitarian crises, leadership transitions and shifting regional dynamics. Saudi Arabia
Egypt, Greece pledge to protect Mount Sinai monastery after court ruling: What to know Greece and Egypt have launched a diplomatic effort to reaffirm the status of Saint Catherine’s Monastery, one of the most revered monasteries in Christianity. Egypt
Pope Francis, voice for Middle East peace and first to visit Gulf, dies at 88 By Rosaleen Carroll In Washington, DC, US, reporting on the Middle East
Egyptian proposal to protect formal Arabic has journalists worried Critics say a draft law intended to preserve traditional, formal Arabic and discourage the use of the modern Egyptian dialect threatens the freedom of the press. Egypt
Culture Alert: November the month for contemporary art, photography Several major art events are entering their final weeks and months in the region. Egypt
Why Turkey’s 'naked art' needs protection Stuck between censorious local authorities and vandals ready to smash what they do not like, statues of nudes are quietly being removed from public spaces. Turkey
Alexandria’s France Street still living in its golden age Alexandria's cherished gold district is nestled into an ancient corner where the city's rich heritage and multicultural past is still vibrant. Egypt
Lebanon battles to get its treasures back A marble bull’s head and a statue of a calf bearer, stolen in 1981, are due to return to Lebanon after a legal battle with private collectors in the United States. Lebanon
Is an Egyptian version of UNESCO in the making? After losing in the runoff to the top post at UNESCO, Moushira Khattab proposed the establishment of an Egyptian UNESCO to help promote culture, education and heritage. Egypt
Iraq's clairvoyants see fame, fortune — for themselves The practice of magic and sorcery has become widespread in Iraq as TV channels give them a platform and people pay huge amounts for quick remedies and potions. Iraq
Mud, rocks on menu in Beirut for Sharjah cultural event One of the major contemporary art experiences in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates' Sharjah festival, held events in Beirut, Istanbul, Ramallah and Dakar. Lebanon
Artists in Istanbul grapple with migration, loss The refugee crisis sparked by war and economic upheaval in the Middle East leaves its mark on the Istanbul Biennial and satellite events. Syria
Virtual museum brings world’s masterpieces to Gaza The University of Palestine's new virtual museum lets Gazans experience the world's artwork and monuments without having to leave the besieged Gaza Strip. Palestine
Huge crowds descend on Egyptian city to celebrate Sufi mystic For one week, hundreds of thousands of Egyptians travel to the city of Tanta to honor Ahmed al-Badawi, the most popular Sufi mystic in the country, with ancient rituals and traditions. Egypt
Iraq's female booksellers turn the page on gender roles Iraqi women have started operating their own bookstores in different Iraqi cities, challenging the country's book selling industry that has been dominated by men. Iraq
