Today I went to the Qatar Womens Association presentation of wedding traditions. The room was set up much like a western wedding reception: covered chairs, floral centerpieces. Then we were served different drinks and sweets as they put on the show. The groom presents a dowery to the bride and it is hers to keep (doesn't go to her family) which includes cloth and jewelery. The night before the wedding is a henna party and all the ladies get together and sing and dance. On the wedding day the groom's father holds a dinner for everyone he knows (and anyone who happens by is invited in.). The village helps out with the grooms expenses. The next day the bride's father holds a lunch for both families. The bride receives visitors for the next seven days at her parents house, then she moves in with the groom.

After the presentation they invited us to a large buffet lunch. Then I got henna on my right hand and wrist, then my picture taken with the traditional wedding "dress" a sheer fabric with lots of embroidery which they wear over a dress and have a cape/veil on their head. All the ladies, including little girls there were dressed in brightly colored dresses and their hair was down and uncoverd. Because this was a presentation there were no men there, so I don't know what they wear.