Emirati Women’s Majlis: Coffee, Gossip and Culture

From its religion to daily habits, Arab culture is serene and calm. For women, the Emirati Women’s Majlis serves as a perfect gathering place for Arab women to relax and engage in a social activity that has evolved into a platform for social empowerment.

About Emirati Majlis:

A Majlis is an Arabic word that means a gathering or sitting. In the past, when people gathered for important discussions and negotiations, it was referred to as a Majlis. As the Emirati Majlis is typically a social gathering held at someone’s home or in a large lounge or hall, it is comfortable with sofas, cushions, and soft carpets. The gossip here strengthens females’ friendships; young girls learn tradition and culture from their elders, and now, in the modern world, the older generation also gains knowledge from their girls, and their conversations vary from education and marriage to technology as well.

Food and Coffee:

In Majls’ light-roasted Arabic coffee, prepared with saffron and rose water, is served to the guest women in traditional small, handleless cups, known as Finjan. Serving coffee is a sign of respect, welcome, and friendship. Along with these, Dates, traditional Emirati sweet snacks, light bites such as savory nuts, and fruit platters also served as an expression of warmth, care, and cultural pride.

Modern Touch:

In modern-era Majli’s various activities are also designed to educate women on specific topics. Like book club set-ups, art and craft sessions, cooking and baking workshops, and most importantly, small business entrepreneurs talk among young females to support their businesses.

Dress Code:

When it comes to representing cultural modesty, elegance meets with Emirati women. Although a gathering is private,they are encouraged to adhere to proper dress codes, featuring modest designers such as Abaya, Shayla, and kaftans, as well as gold jewelry, which the host admires as a reflection of cultural and personal style, and a sign of respect to the host.