The Demand for Freedom

Still don't believe that freedom is an innate, natural desire? Still believe that freedom is contrary to the culture of the Middle East? Still believe that even the Saudis, who buy Wahhabism hook, line, and sinker, don't want freedom? Then explain this phenomenon.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) -- The restaurant, like all Riyadh eateries, has taken precautions to prevent its male and female diners from seeing or contacting each other.

Circular white walls surround each table in the family section, open only to women alone or women accompanied by close male relatives. Other male diners are on lower floors.

Yet despite the barriers, the men and women flirt and exchange phone numbers, photos and kisses.

They elude the mores imposed by the kingdom's puritanical Wahhabi version of Islam -- formulated in the 18th century -- by using a 21st century device in their mobile phones: the wireless Bluetooth technology that permits users to connect without going through the phone company.

"It's more fun coming to a restaurant these days," said Mona, 21, as her two friends giggled. Their Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones rested on the table next to the remnants of a dinner of club sandwiches and fries.

"I've been using Bluetooth since it came out last year. We're always looking for new things to add a spark to life," Reem, 24, said.

The women would not give their full names when talking about communicating with the opposite sex -- so strong is the taboo in this kingdom where men and women are strictly segregated. Unrelated men and women caught talking to each other, driving in the same car or sharing a meal risk being detained by the religious police.

But connecting by Bluetooth is safe and easy. Users activate the Bluetooth function in their phone and then press the search button to see who else has the feature on within a 30-foot (9-meter) range.

What's that? Men and women who risk arrest by the religious police in order to do what they want? Men and women who reject the puritanical demands of their segregational society? Men and women who desire freedom, and are willing to exercise their rights in secret using the latest technology?

Perish the thought.