Saharan Desert Jinn (Jenun)
In Mauritania, belief in desert jinn (jenun) is deeply embedded in culture, shaped by the vast Sahara. Made of smokeless fire, they inhabit deserts, ruins, oases and remote passes; sandstorms, mirages and the howling of winds are read as their work. Some jinn are Muslim and harmless, others malevolent; travellers fear being led astray, and fqihs use Quranic verses and incense for protection.