The people of Dubai did not only celebrate Eid el-Fitr this week, but also the marriage of three members of the emirate's royal family.
In mid-May, during the holy month of Ramadan, three sons of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Dubai's Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, officially signed their marriage certificates to their now-wives.
The wedding ceremony was held on June 6, which marked the third day of Eid, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. In accordance with Islamic traditions that encourage gender segregation, the event was exclusive to men, with reports of a separate reception for women being held at a later date.
Sheikh Hamdan (Dubai's Crown Prince) got married to Sheikha Sheikha bint Saeed bin Thani Al Maktoum, Sheikh Maktoum (Deputy Ruler of Dubai) to Sheikha Mariam bint Butti Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Ahmad (Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation) to Sheikha Midya bint Damlouj Al Maktoum.
The event saw the grooms and guests wear bishts (men's cloaks) over Khaleeji kandoras (floor-length white garment). As for entertainment, a male troupe performed the traditional Al-Ayala "stick dance."
Speaking to The National, wedding guest Hamdan Al Samt described the ceremony as "spectacular" and "amazing."
"The greetings took a few moments because everything was conducted smoothly. It was well organised [...] Everyone was happy, everybody was smiling. You could see the happiness of the nation inside," he explained.
In case you didn't make the exclusive guest list, here's a glimpse at the festivities:
The royal family made sure to share footage of the celebrations with the virtual world
"May happiness and peace always surround my family, my country and my people," wrote Sheikh Mohammed
Thousands of male guests made their way into the venue
A close-up of Sheikh Hamdan, the eldest among the grooms
Traditions took center stage at the ceremony
Of course, the UAE's leading figures were in attendance
Many dignitaries and prominent businessmen were also on the guest list
Royals were all smiles throughout the event
UAE flags decorated the hall
And Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan's phone cover
Some fans attempted to crash the wedding, to no avail
Dubai Palace definitely rose up to the occasion
