I agree that this is a sensitive and complicated topic... and yes religion is important.. VERY important; we cannot argue with that, it goes without saying that in order for a Muslim girl to marry any man whether he is Arab, American, Canadian, Italian, British, Asian, Australian, Whomever... He MUST be a Muslim Period. No discussion about it!
What I'm talking about here is how two different cultures can come together and learn to build a life despite the cultural differences. I think it's important that both must understand the differences in their respected cultures and respect those differences.
He has to understand the way Arab cultures are, the way they think, and what is acceptable and what is not.. On the other hand, she also has to understand that he needs time to adjust to this new culture, she has to help and support him during that time. Islam is the most important asset they have in common, and that's what I believe should be the foundation of their relationship, Islam will help build love, grace and affection between the two of them.
I; for example, am a person who understands the American culture very well, so well, it would seem to some people that I was born and raised there, even my accent confuses many of the people I meet! They think I'm lying to them when I say I'm not American or at least Canadian! That's how easily I can blend in with the culture.. However, when it comes to my Arab cultural values I am like any Arab Muslim girl, it is impossible for me to simply forget or ignore these values.
So I dont' think it's only about Love, or only about religion, or only about what they want, or only about attraction. Infact, it's about all of these factors together starting with Religion of course!
I want to thank you all for all your valuable insights, its delightful to hear all the different opinions, hope to hear more soon