The Center for Asian and African Studies at El Colegio de México has conducted research and graduate programs in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) studies for the last 50 years. Through this time, the Center's alumni have moved to teach MENA studies in different universities in Latin America or have staffed ministries of foreign affairs in this region. Besides covering the history and goals of the Center, the presentation will discuss the research carried out by its MENA faculty. Special emphasis will be made of the intellectual traditions that have influenced their work. The paper is based on interviews conducted with retired and current professors at the Centre, as well as with alumni and collaborators.