Arab and Middle Eastern weddings in Canada, from Lebanese, Syrian, Palestinian, Jordanian, Iraqi, Egyptian, Moroccan and many other families, are big, generous celebrations. Montreal, Ottawa, the Greater Toronto Area, Windsor, Calgary and Edmonton all have large communities, and couples often blend family customs with Canadian venues.
Traditions differ between countries, faiths and families, so talk them through with both sides.
The katb kitab or religious ceremony
For Muslim couples, the katb kitab (or nikah) is the marriage contract, signed with an imam, witnesses and close family. It is often held at a mosque or at home before the main celebration. Christian Arab couples often marry in an Orthodox, Catholic or Maronite church.
To be legally married in Canada you also need a provincial marriage licence and a registered officiant. Many imams and priests are registered, so ask yours. Our guide to who can marry you in Canada explains the basics.
The henna night
Many families hold a henna night a day or two before the wedding, with music, food, traditional dress and henna for the couple and guests. It is usually smaller and more relaxed than the wedding itself.
The zaffe
The zaffe is the joyful entrance into the reception: drummers, dancers, sometimes swords or candles, and loud, happy music leading the couple into the room. A zaffe troupe usually performs for 15 to 30 minutes. Ask the venue about space for the troupe to enter, and whether drums are allowed in their hall.
The reception
Expect a long night with dabke dancing, a full table of mezze before the main meal, and sweets like baklava and knafeh. Some couples cut the cake with a sword. Plan for a DJ or band who can play Arabic music as well as the other songs your guests love.
What to ask venues and vendors
- ✦Can you bring a halal caterer, or does the venue offer halal food?
- ✦Is the venue alcohol-free if you would like it to be?
- ✦Is there space and time for a zaffe and a dabke line?
- ✦Has your photographer covered an Arab wedding before?
- ✦Do hair and makeup artists work with hijab styling, if you need it?
On OpenDates, businesses can tick the traditions they know well. Browse Middle Eastern and Arab wedding businesses across Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is the katb kitab the same day as the wedding?
Sometimes. Many couples hold it weeks or months before the reception, and some hold it the same morning.
How long is a zaffe?
Usually 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the troupe and how many songs you choose.
Can we have a dry wedding at a hotel or hall?
Yes. Ask the venue how they price a reception without a bar, and whether the bar minimum can be waived.
Plan it in one place
Find venues and vendors free on your date with OpenDates, and keep the guest list, budget, wedding website and seating chart together in OpenDates Ever After, free for couples.
Mabrouk! Kristina
Photos from Pexels.