Watani Camp at DSF celebrates Al Shuhouh traditional wedding
This year visitors to Watani’s camps were given a glimpse of one of the most ancient wedding ceremonies, the “Zaffa”, performed by Al Shuhooh tribe, the indigenous ‘mountain people’ of the UAE who resided in handmade mud houses in the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. Through several decades of war against the Portuguese army, the Shuhouh people developed their own distinctive culture and language with ceremonial occasions which reflect the harsh realities of war and the need for physical and mental fortitude.
In ancient times, the suitor prepared for his journey to the bride’s house by dressing in the traditional ‘Al Shuhouh’ way, the Emirati kondura, ‘Al Aqqal’ – the black headpiece – onto the head and a "Mehzam" which is a belt with bullets around the waist, out of which juts the traditional ‘Khanjar’ dagger. On the way to the bride’s house, the family members performed the traditional dance called Al Nadbah where men beat drums and throw swords high into the air and catch them with different song rhythms. The ceremony takes two to three hours until the groom arrives at the bride’s house. The groom made the journey as speedily as possible to demonstrate his enthusiasm to settle down and take on his responsibilities as the head of the family.
This traditional wedding celebration is part of the Watani Family Camp which is a major highlight of the 14th edition of the DSF. The Camp is organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
Every weekend, Camp visitors will witness a journey in time to learn about the most prominent UAE traditions and customs in a family atmosphere that is geared to allow visitors to get in touch with the cultural roots of the UAE where the authenticity beats in the heart of the desert.
The Camp will take place, as part of DSF festivities, at the University Campus Street in Dubai, in front of the Al Warqaa 4 area. The camp is open families of all ages and nationalities. You can reserve a tent for overnight stay or one of the Al Maqeel day sites. The low entrance fee makes it a good destination for all families regardless of their income. For further information on the Watani Family Camp or reservations, please call 800WATANI or email [email protected].
