Messages such as “Cool Kuwaiti wants to meet a pretty girl” and “I love you Eagle of the Orient” flash along the bottom of the television screen as a sultry singer gyrates to the music.

Switch on, day or night, any of a dozen Arabic music channels and that is what you see: the new pop stars of the Middle East pouring out love songs, surrounded by crowds of exuberant back-up dancers. Everyone on screen is young, beautiful and exuding a sensuality that pushes the boundaries of what is considered decent in the Arab world.