Mariquilla: Shaikh Majid binding to the daughter of Ali Beljafla via melcha. Perhaps it can compare with a Western type of engagement. It is a very private matter which would not made public in any case by the ruling family and which is celebrate only in the circle of family and close friends. Within this ceremony the marriage contract will be signed and bride and groom tie the knot. Now the couple is considered to be married legally. Therefore from this day the couple can see each other, talk to each other in private and refer to themselves as spouses. But the marriage is not consumed yet and the couple do not live together. With the official wedding reception which can celebrated weeks, months or even years later the marriage will sealed and the couple begin a married life together. With the wedding reception the marriage will be officially announced also.
As a hint for those who are interested in the customs of gulf region: In the members area there is a thread which helps to understand cultural and traditional things of UAE and the gulf states. There's more to learn about different topics like engagements, weddings, divorces, traditions, way of life in the UAE and gulf countries, food, spices, heritage, family life, present and past and and and......