Yemeni Wedding with Sword Dance

Although Yemeni wedding traditions vary in the cities, mountains and on the sea, in each the common ululating, sword dancing and celebrating for three days bring joy to the union of individuals, families and tribes. Video is an example of the sword dance performed at Yemenite weddings. For a complete description of the three day wedding festivities

Yemeni women's wedding celebrations take place in the "mafraj", a spacious room with large rectangular windows on all sides. As in other Arab cultures, the bride sits on a throne-like chair for everyone to admire. The women drape basil leaves and flowers over their ears and wear all the gold jewelry they own. more