Rural settings or abandoned buildings are an important element in Saudi horror and urban legends; a historical photo of Saudi Arabia. (Getty Images/AN photos by Saleh AlGhannam)
The excitement of a Halloween-like celebration is celebrated in Saudi Arabia by viewing scary films and recounting spooky stories that are derived from a long history of oral storytelling. These tales have long been ingrained in culture, providing moral guidance, worldly insights, and admonitions for wrongdoing.
Nawaf Al-Huwaimel, a prominent Saudi storyteller, highlights the enduring appeal of horror stories, with jinn tales and the suspense they bring being a particular favorite among Saudis. Over time, as written stories and novels emerged, the horror genre found a significant place in storytelling, attracting a devoted following.
Rural settings or abandoned buildings are an important element in Saudi horror and urban legends; a historical photo of Saudi Arabia. (Getty Images/AN photos by Saleh AlGhannam)
One chilling tale that has left its mark on Saudi culture is that of Humar Al-Qaylah, known as the Midday Donkey. This hideous being, with a human-animal hybrid appearance, emerges during midday, creating fear and discouraging children from venturing out in the scorching heat.
Stories of ghouls, ogres, and supernatural beings have ancient roots, going back to pre-Islamic times. These tales are woven into Arabian storytelling classics, with various adaptations and interpretations over the years.
Stories certainly can be more scary when they feel relatable or familiar.
Imagination is a key element of these tales, with the storytellers skillfully creating an environment that intensifies the fear experienced by the audience. Familiar settings, superstitions, and eerie character names contribute to the spine-tingling effect.
The tale of Humar Al Qaylah was told to frighten and prevent children from going out at noon. (Getty Images)
Rural settings and abandoned structures play a vital role in Saudi horror and urban legends. One such story, Umm Al-Saaf and Al-Leil, features an old witch who becomes talkative at night, accompanied by cockroaches. This tale, like the one of Humar Al-Qaylah, is shared to keep children indoors, particularly during windy and rainy weather.
A common tale, one that combines myth and legend is the tale of Humar Al Qaylah, meaning the midday donkey. (AlEqtisadiah)
The surroundings and local elements often influence the composition of these stories, adding to their unique charm. In the case of Umm Al-Saaf and Al-Leif, the presence of palm trees in the Eastern Province lends authenticity to the tale.
