More than 100 people visited a celebration of the unification of Saudi Arabia in the Memorial Student Union yesterday.

The celebration in the Senior Ballroom included information about Saudi Arabian life and an opportunity for visitors to dress in traditional Saudi Arabian clothing and eat typical Saudi Arabian food. Visitors could also get their names written in Arabic.

"We are proud of our country's unification," said Eisa R. Alharatani, president of the university's Saudi student club, which sponsored the event. He added that part of the reason for the three-hour celebration was to show Americans the Saudi Arabian culture and history.

King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud unified the kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Sept. 23, 1932. Although the country is celebrating its 64th anniversary, Saudi Arabian roots date back to the early 18th century, according to a handout from the Saudi student club.

David Dunford, adjunct instructor of contemporary international politics, spoke about his experience in Saudi Arabia and the importance of knowing about the country. He spent four years in Saudi Arabia and worked at the American Embassy in Riyadh, the country's capital.

"It is very important for Saudis to get together and reaffirm their culture," Dunford said.

He added that it is also important for Americans to learn about Saudi Arabia.

"Americans know very little about Saudi Arabia. We depend on imported oil, and our biggest producer is Saudi Arabia. It behooves us to know about the country," he said.

Sean Murray, finance junior, said he found out about the celebration through the Associated Students and had his picture taken dressed in Saudi Arabian clothing.

"They told us who wears the clothes and what season they're worn in," he said. Murray said that he was shocked to find out that Saudi Arabia was only 64 years old.

The location of the celebration brought up the issue of visibility with some visitors.

Dana Mahan, philosophy junior, came with Murray to the event and said that it was not well publicized. "Had I not come with Sean, I wouldn't have come. A lot of people just don't know it was here."

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