Weddings are the celebration of traditions. Emirati wedding is a luxurious celebration influenced by local traditions and the Arabs’ long-standing culture.
Emirati marriages are held in accordance with strict Islamic regulations and are lavishly celebrated. The vibrancy and magnificence of Emirati weddings are unrivaled, and it varies depending on the specific preferences that one wants to follow.
EMIRATI WEDDING PREPARATIONS
The traditional wedding celebration in the UAE lasts seven days, beginning with the Al Khoutha, the marriage proposal ceremony. The groom’s father asks the bride’s father for her hand in this ceremony, which is then followed by a marriage contract agreement known as Al Akhd.
Before the wedding, the groom presents the bride with perfumes, jewelry, silk fabrics, and other essential goods, which she uses to make her magnificent wedding attire, known as Addahbia.
A bridal shower, also known as Henna night, is held 2-3 days before the wedding, and all of the bride’s female relatives and friends are invited to enjoy a night of music, dance, and delicious food. The bride receives gifts from all the guests, including jewelry, expensive gowns, and cash.
Perfumes are a popular gift for newlyweds. The women dance and celebrate with the bride, and the henna artist draws exquisite designs on the bride’s hands and feet.
The usage of flowers is quite important in UAE weddings, starting with the bridal shower and ending with the wedding day. Fresh flowers, whether used for decor or gifting, exude positive energy and add vibrancy to the event with their brilliant colors and smells.
THE WEDDING DAY
The religious ceremony of Nikah is performed in the presence of the family on the wedding day. A religious figure known as a Maulvi or Qazi officially marries the couple during this ceremony. After the ceremony, the celebrations start with a great feast.
Most Emirati brides dream of wearing highly beautiful full-length gowns in white or cream. Emirati brides choose gowns that are both romantic and extravagant, as well as gowns that are meticulously designed. They might be made of silk or satin and embellished with lace or chiffon for extra texture. They will be ornamented with pearls, sequins, crystals, or silk flowers.
The groom’s appearance is also important as the bride’s attire. For the wedding day, the groom will usually wear a Bisht. This is a gorgeous black Arab cloak that is used on important occasions. The Bisht is usually embroidered with fine gold and silver threads.
There are different ceremonies for men and women in Emirati weddings. The rationale for this is so that Muslim women who wear hijab can rejoice without being judged by strangers at the celebration. Emirati weddings are the perfect opportunity for women to flaunt their designer gowns and jewels. Dancing, elaborate decorations, and enjoyment are all part of the bride’s reception.
The men’s party also have their separate dancing and enjoyment sessions. The men dress in a Kandoura/Thawb / Kandura, a traditional white dress. As per the traditional dance form, men stand in a line holding a thin gold cane in one hand. In addition, the men at the head and end of the line occasionally hold a little firearm, after which they all dance to Emirati music.
DELICIOUS FEAST
Once the dance and music are over, and are ready to relax, traditional Emirati food is the next part of the wedding, filling the stomach and heart with mouth-watering cuisines. Guests are welcomed with coffee and dates, followed by a variety of desserts and tasty food items.
The luxury of Emirati weddings varies depending on the family’s financial situation. However, it is a celebration that you must experience once in a lifetime that will stay in our memories forever.
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