Creating an Authentic Arabian-Themed Celebration
An Arabian-inspired gathering can evoke the enchantment of Scheherazade's tales through careful attention to ambiance, décor and culinary tradition. Drawing on the cultural heritage of nations like Morocco and Saudi Arabia, hosts can build an immersive experience featuring draped tents, Persian rugs, aromatic hookahs and traditional dishes served in tagines.
By Alex Ross4 steps
Create an Arabian market atmosphere for the party with authentic Turkish hookahs and Morroccan trunks.
An Arabian-themed party at its finest blends intrigue, allure and custom in a way that could sustain a thousand and one nights. To give the occasion genuine richness, explore the deep history and traditions of Arab nations such as Morocco and Saudi Arabia, along with Scheherazade's Arabian Nights stories. Offer customary fare like hummus and couscous, spin captivating Arabian tunes and build opulent alcoves that encourage visitors to recline in the manner of sheiks in their harems.
Step 1
Arrange compact marquee tents as lounging zones along the edges of the venue. Decorate both the inside and outside of these tents with swags of drapery and scarves. Place Persian rugs on the floor within the tents, then pile them high with embroidered silk cushions and Moroccan-style poufs.
Step 2
Set a hookah at the center of each table to serve as a genuine focal point. Surround every hookah with a mix of taper, pillar and tea candles to light the tables. Hang Moroccan lanterns within the marquee tents and over the dance area, providing illumination with an authentic feel.
Step 3
Present a seated dinner of spicy, traditional Arabic dishes served from an authentic tagine, a Moroccan cooking and serving vessel. Conclude the meal with properly prepared Arabic tea and coffee poured from Arabian-style tea services.
Step 4
Bring in belly dancers to perform during the meal, and have them circulate among attendees once the dancing gets underway. Request that the dancers offer belly dancing instruction on the floor and spontaneous performances for those relaxing in the tents, adding atmosphere and vitality to the gathering.
