Bismillah
salam Unit, Yes there has been riots, there has been even violence inside Ka`ba (the sacred masjed itself which is certainly grave, major totally forbideen by Allah). If i remember well, that was during the 80s. Lately, if I recall well, also there has been some terrorist conduct in Mecca.
Muslims commit sins u know, Muslims are no angles. They do break the rules just like any other human being.
Regarding the cultural exchange program between US and MidEast? (like with students?)
i know there is with Egypt. If u want, I can do some search for u. I know for example a number of Amercian political science students who joined the American Universtiy in Cairo for a semester. There is also this Amid East foundation, look for their site. Ford Foundation also provides internship opportunities. Are u interested to come to the ME????