Qura University say they have been forced to return to the ways of their forefathers and erect tents in the desert and valleys surrounding the Holy City to escape high rents in districts close to their university. Students living in tents say the situation has affected their studies as they lack basic facilities, such as lighting, which also makes them vulnerable to unwanted guests like snakes and scorpions. Abdulghani Al-Khazmari, who is studying for his masters degree, is living out in his car which he parks every night under a bridge, and sometimes on pavements in quiet backstreets. “I can't afford the rent for a flat, especially at this time of year,” Abdulghani says. He was referring to the pilgrimage season when landlords often give tenants the option of either paying a considerable rise in rent for the period or vacate their buildings. The university's Dean for Student Affairs and Housing, Dr. Saleh Al-Mabouth, however, says that affordable accommodation does in fact exist and that other motives lead students to return to the unrestricted life of the Bedouin. “The university has housing units to accommodate 600 students, of which only 200 are being used,” he says. “The rent costs SR300 and is paid by deducting from students' allowances.” “Some students choose to set up camp outside the university,” Al-Mabouth continues, “because they do not wish to be subject to the rules of university residences.”
