Invited to a wedding in Saudi Arabia? Celebrations are often held separately for men and women, start late and are full of hospitality. Here is what guests can expect.
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Formal: men often wear a thobe or a suit; women wear evening wear, with an abaya over it when arriving and leaving.
Ask the family or a close friend; customs vary, and many guests simply bring their good wishes.
Receptions usually start in the evening and can continue past midnight, sometimes until the early hours.
Mabrook!: Congratulations! (Arabic)
Reply as the invitation asks; invitations are often personal, so do not bring extra guests.
A Muslim marriage in Saudi Arabia is formalised with the marriage contract, the nikah, which is central to the marriage and usually signed in the presence of close family and witnesses. This is often a smaller gathering, held some time before the main celebration, and families may use different names for it. The wedding party that most guests attend comes later. Customs vary between regions and families, and many couples adapt traditions to suit them.
In public venues, men and women usually celebrate in separate halls. Men gather with the groom and his family, often with coffee, dates and a generous dinner. In the women’s hall, guests often dress in elaborate evening wear, since the space is private, and there may be music and dancing. Later in the evening, frequently around midnight, the bride makes her entrance, walking slowly so that everyone can admire her. Sometimes the groom and close male relatives join the women’s hall briefly to exchange rings or pose for family photographs, after which the celebration may continue with food and dancing until the early hours. No alcohol is served.
Saudi weddings are known for their generosity. Expect Arabic coffee, dates, sweets and a large meal. Follow your hosts’ lead, and if you are unsure where to go or when, ask a member of the family.
Families with younger children are sometimes welcome at the women’s celebration, but this varies, so check the invitation. Because receptions run late, plan rest beforehand and consider leaving earlier with younger guests after thanking the hosts.
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If a Saudi colleague invites you, attending is a kind gesture. Ask a colleague who knows the family about dress, timing and gifts.
In public venues, men and women usually celebrate separately. This allows women to dress up and celebrate freely in a private space.
The signing of the marriage contract, usually with close family and witnesses. It often takes place before the main wedding celebration, so check which event your invitation is for.
Receptions usually begin in the evening, and the bride often makes her entrance late, around midnight. Celebrations can continue until the early morning.
