Mustafa Sa'eed tells Ahmed about his past and his connection to the oasis. He reveals that he was once a wealthy merchant who lived in the city but chose to leave his materialistic life behind and find peace and solitude in the desert. He transformed the desolate oasis into a lush garden filled with date trees and made it his sanctuary.
As Ahmed listens to Mustafa's stories, he begins to reflect on his own life, his relationship with his tribe, and his understanding of the world. He recognizes that he is at a crossroads, torn between the traditional ways of his nomadic existence and the allure of the modern and materialistic world.
During their conversation, Mustafa narrates a parable about a Bedouin who encounters a genie and expresses three wishes: a large quantity of dates, the power to fly, and the ability to return home. The Bedouin's wishes symbolize his desires for wealth, freedom, and connection to his roots.
Mustafa's parables and conversations prompt Ahmed to contemplate the nature of time, the pursuit of happiness, and the significance of one's place in the world. The old man's wisdom challenges Ahmed to question his values and priorities, leading him to reconsider his own journey and the direction of his life.
In the end, Ahmed leaves the oasis and rejoins his tribe, armed with new insights and a deeper understanding of himself. He carries with him a handful of dates, which serve as a tangible reminder of his encounter with Mustafa Sa'eed and the profound impact it had on his life.