I've fancied owning an oud since the Incredible String Band used one on "10,000 Spirits".

Only ever seen one for sale and, wouldn't you know, at the time I was broke!

Tried to buy one in Malta a couple of years ago (Malta being as near as I've ever got to North Africa), but to no avail, so bought a baclama (soprano bouzouki) instead.

The search continues!