How to Plan a Dreamy Arabian-Themed Wedding in Doha

Are you planning your big day? Just the sound of it makes you feel excited, doesn’t it? Since it’s an occasion you’d want to make memorable, how about doing something not everyone does? Stray from the norm, as it were. How does an Arabian-themed wedding in Doha sound to you? With rich colours, soft lantern light and elegant décor, you can turn your wedding celebration into an event that’s timeless and memorable. Here’s your guide to planning a dreamy Arabian-themed wedding.

Create an Arabian Night Atmosphere 

Luxury, warmth and breathtaking details – this is what an Arabian-themed wedding is all about. It should make you and your guests feel as though you’ve just stepped into a fairytale. Imagine adorning yourself in emerald green, sapphire blue and ruby red, with touches of gold woven into everything from the drapery to the table settings and floral arrangements. It’s a colour palette of royalty, and it instantly creates an ethereal, romantic feel. 

For the tables and seating areas, add indulgent textures like silk, velvet and satin. Cushions, canopies and table runners in these fabrics create a lavish atmosphere, the likes of which you’d see in an 18th-century royal court. 

Lighting is key – Moroccan lanterns and clusters of candles will add a soft golden warmth, and candles also create a sense of mystery. As for flowers, extravagance is the way to go – tall arrangements of roses, orchids and peonies make a stunning statement, and a flower-strewn carpet of fragrant roses and jasmine for the bride’s entrance is the detail that completes the setting.

Select a Venue 

Weddings are not like corporate meetings – the venue matters a great deal. In fact, choosing the right venue is everything. Since, presumably, you’ll be hosting your wedding in Doha, you’re spoiled for choice. There’s a wide range of venues to choose from, ranging from lavish hotels to grand ballrooms. 

Consider the interior carefully and make sure it aligns with what you have in mind. Service and amenities should also be taken into account. If you and your guests are flying into Doha, a hotel with accommodation is the best choice. One option to consider is the Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli. 

Customs and Traditions 

Weddings in Doha are the embodiment of customs and traditions. To make your Arabian-themed wedding feel authentic, you should infuse your day with a touch of Arabian heritage. 

One of the most beloved traditions is the Henna Night, or Laylat Al-Henna. It’s a pre-wedding celebration that brings the bride and her closest female friends and relatives together for a night filled with music, dancing and joy. The highlight of the night is painting henna designs on hands and feet. It not only symbolises beauty and blessings but is also believed to protect the bride from evil spirits.

The Zaffa procession is another long-standing tradition – a lively parade announcing the groom’s arrival. Filled with drum music and dancing, it’s one of the key events of Arab weddings. Including a Zaffa procession in your wedding would be a marvellous addition that makes it feel like a true Arab wedding.

Food 

Food is a key part of any wedding, and when it comes to Arabian-style weddings, it’s everything. The food should delight every sense and leave guests talking about it for days after the celebration.

Start with a spread of Qatari-style appetisers – hummus, smoky baba ganoush, crispy falafel, fresh tabbouleh and stuffed grape leaves make a wonderful first course. For the main course, think of something hearty and filling – lamb kebabs, chicken shawarma and fragrant rice pilaf are ideal. Spices such as cumin and coriander are what give the dishes their authentic Arabian flavour.

When it comes to dessert, your options are endless. Traditional sweets like baklava, kanafeh and basbousa are flavourful Arabian treats anyone would love. Pair all that with mint tea or Arabian coffee.