DUBAI, UAE
As Muslim Clerics continue their ultra-conservative bans on a wide range of practices that are common for most Westerners, such as women driving or some Western media, pornography and related materials are still at the top of the list. Imam Bartatu, based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, had this to say on the subject: “We fear that Western influence will continue to eat away at Muslim culture. This is why we must continue to outlaw these outside influences.”
A few hours away in the United Arab Emirates, copies of 50 Shades of Grey by E.L. James, the sex and BDSM-fueled best selling novel that is often cited as many their first introduction into the world of kink, is selling fast at a local Borders Bookstore and in bookstores at the airport.
“I’m going to visit my in-laws,” said a local Emirati who asked for anonymity at the airport in Dubai. “I need something to read while I travel and I hear this is just the thing. Women in my book club keep making this and the other books in the series the discussion item at our meetings, month after month after month.” She promptly wrapped the book up and slid it into her Louis Vuitton shoulder bag before heading off to her flight. “I’m sure my mother-in-law will give me extra points for bringing this to her.”
