Middle East Wedding Tradition

Weddings in the Middle East vary from state to state and from religion to another. The Middle East is blessed with many religions and customs.

Each family also may celebrate a wedding differently. A wedding planner for example must ask the Bride about the dos and absolute don'ts in regards to their religion and cultural beliefs so as not to offend anyone.

Some will celebrate a "Week Long" of dinners and entertainment prior to the actual Nuptials and some will celebrate after the Nuptials for "Seven" Days.

The parties could include:

Engagement Party

Family, friends and many relatives and cousins are invited to celebrate. The bride to be might have to change up to 5 dresses. She will also be gifted many gold jewelry and Diamonds as well.

Mahar Party

This is the day when the Muslim's bride and groom get their marriage Contract and sign it in front of a Judge or Imam. Upon the couple's return from the courthouse, they join everyone for delicious food prepared by various relatives and friends.

Wedding Shower Party

Christian Brides will be given a wedding shower by her maid of honor or mother of the bride; this will help the couple in building their nest. Usually kitchen wear is provided. A relative or parent might also gift their daughter an entire Living Room or Bedroom set.

The Henna Party

This is a party for Muslims. It is not customary though for Christians to have a Henna Party. If on the other hand a Christian woman is invited to a Muslim's Henna Party, she will graciously accept to honor the bride. Henna is not mandatory. It is normally done the day before the wedding and lasts till the wee hours of the morning.

The "Wedding" Party

It is done in a reception hall or a Hotel banquet. Lots of family and friends are gathered for an evening of fine dining…Christians will have entertainment, a DJ or Band/Singer(s), Belly dancers etc. Some Muslims may have entertainment and some might not. No Alcohol for some and Christians will definitely have "Arak" or open bar with various brand liquors.

Who Pays For What?

In the Middle East the groom and his parents will pay for the entire wedding.

Today things are changing. The bride's parents might help out or even the couple themselves as they also have an income.

Wedding Gifts

The best gift is "Money" this will help the couple or parents pay for the wedding.