Etiquette for Gifting During Engagements and Weddings in Dubai
| Etiquette Tip | What to Know |
| No Haram Items | Avoid alcohol, pork, and pigskin products. |
| Right Hand Only | Give/receive gifts with your right or both hands (palms up). |
| Open Gifts Privately | Don’t open gifts in front of others. |
| Double Wrap Gifts | Use protective wrap first, then decorative. |
| Choose Thoughtful Gifts | Personalized or quality items are preferred over pricey ones. |
| Go Local | Opt for Arabic sweets, perfumes, or cultural items. |
Are you invited to a grand Emirati wedding? If that’s a nod, you must learn a little bit about etiquette for gifting during engagements and weddings in Dubai. As they say, when in Rome, dress like a Roman.
Wedding gifting etiquette is a sacred and much-cherished part of Islamic culture in the UAE, which many expats and even locals get wrong sometimes. For those last-minute gifting needs, services like Same Day Gift Delivery Dubai can be a lifesaver, ensuring your present arrives on time and in style.
Don’t worry, our fellow readers, we have just the guide for you. In this article, we’ll offer you a crash course in Dubai wedding etiquette to not only help you find an appropriate gift but also have a time of your life at the luxurious Nikah.
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Stay Clear of Haram Products
Gifts such as alcohol and pork are completely out of the question. They are not only considered taboo but are forbidden in Islamic traditions.
This includes items crafted from pigskins, such as belts or shoes and alcohol-infused food items. For extra brownie points, look for halal-certified products such as traditional sweets, premium date boxes, and luxurious chocolates.
Show Your Verbal and Non-Verbal Appreciation
Always accept gifts with your right hand, as left hands are often frowned upon in religious gatherings or celebrations. When using both hands, keep your palms up and showcase your appreciation for the invite and the gift.
Who doesn’t like guests appreciating the wedding decor and food? Use non-verbal communication such as smiling, handshakes and nods to convey your gratitude and joy.
While choosing the perfect gift is important, organizing a wedding in Dubai has its own special charm and difficulties. To fully grasp the situation, read our comprehensive guide on Top Wedding Planning Tips in Dubai.
Open Gifts in Private
The gift-sharing tradition is considered an intimate one between the receiver and the giver. While you offer presents in front of the guests, it is ideal to open your presents when you are at your home or have some privacy. Opening gifts in private showcases your humility and respect towards the guests.
Quality and Thought are Everything
The glamorous decor, sparkling firecrackers, and luxurious cars may pressure you into buying expensive or multiple presents. Look for personalized gifts such as customized gift hampers, engraved jewelry, and customized photo albums. These gifts not only offer a unique personal touch but showcase your attention to detail and love towards them.
If you’re considering gifting flowers, make sure they’re as timeless as the occasion. Explore our blog on the Best Long-Lasting Wedding Flowers in Dubai to find blooms that stay fresh and meaningful long after the celebration ends.
Double The Gift Wrap
Unwrapped gifts are seen as last-minute options and are frowned upon. Secondly, it is a tradition to wrap your wedding or engagement gifts twice. Once with a light, often transparent cover for protection, and then a beautiful gift wrap from the outside.
Also, look for complementary gift wrap designs such as gold for weddings and floral for baby showers, etc. Gift wraps are what build anticipation for your gifts.
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Gift Local Products or Cultural Experiences
The UAE is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage. They take pride in their people, language, and traditions. Respect those and search for gifts that offer the lucky couple something new without hurting anyone’s sentiments. You can choose from these popular options:
- Arabic Sweets: No matter the country, everyone loves their traditional sweets. Baklava, Kunafa and Turkish delights are some sweets that will put a smile on everyone’s face. Try new variants that include exotic ingredients such as rose, saffron, or cinnamon.
- Embellished Goodness: Search for glamorous and elegant items such as necklaces, rings, and earrings for weddings. You can also pick an ornate trousseau trunk or embroidered potli bag for a unique and premium gift.
- Personalized Gifts: Family photos and customized “His and Her” mugs are great personalized gift items. You can choose monogrammed travel kits and gift hampers.
- Fragrant Delights: Perfumes and fragrances in general are a major part of UAE culture. From incense, aromatherapy candles, to luxurious perfume sets, there is a range of gift choices.
Be it a Nikah in the living room of the house or a grand engagement party at the Palm Jumeirah beach, gifts are at the heart of every celebration. Sharing gifts is an old tradition and a great privilege.
Be considerate, plan strategically, and enjoy the grand celebrations with the people who love and respect you. Hopefully, our detailed guide has prepared you for your upcoming gifting odyssey.
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