El Houma

El Houma (Arabic: الحومة) is an Arabic term, primarily used in North Africa, referring to a neighborhood or quarter, often a traditional or historical one. The term carries connotations of a close-knit community, characterized by social cohesion and shared cultural values. While sometimes used generally to mean "neighborhood", it often specifically refers to older, more established urban areas, particularly in medinas or traditional city centers. The character of an el houma is often shaped by its inhabitants, who may share similar socioeconomic backgrounds, family ties, or historical connections to the area. The word can also imply a sense of belonging and identity for the residents. The term is used in various Maghrebi dialects of Arabic.