* Pithi: During the Pithi, the bride and groom’s guests perform a ceremony where the couple is fed sweets and covered in "pithi". Pithi is a paste made out of chickpea flour, tumeric and rose water, and it is meant to help provide the couple with a glowing complexion for their special day.  

An informal lunch will be served and all guests are welcome to attend. Please note that formal invites did not include Pithi details so please rely on the website for the most up to date time and location details. 

** Mehndi & Sangeet: Mehndi (or Henna) parties are held for Gujurati brides, and are celebrated a few days before the wedding with family and friends.  Mehndi artists draw designs on the bride's hands and feet (as well as those of other female guests), resulting in a deep red-brown stain that lasts several weeks.  Henna designs are said to protect and adorn the bride.

The Sangeet is a music and dance party, where guests can meet each other and mingle with great food and music! 

Dress code etiquette in Dubai: Dubai is the most tolerant of UAE states when it comes to dress code.  Women should feel free to wear the cocktail/evening dresses that they would normally wear in Canada/UK/US. As always, ethnic wear (sarees, etc) are also perfectly acceptable at all of the events. 

When in public, respectful attire is required (e.g., men should wear shirts unless on the beach or at a pool, and women should not wear skirts/shorts that are shorter than mid-thigh, bathing suits are acceptable at beaches and hotels). For more information on local laws and customs, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates/local-laws-and-customs

Gifts: Your presence is the best gift we can receive!