In the heart of a city where the sun glistens off towering skyscrapers and the Arabian desert stretches into the horizon, Dubai stands as a beacon for lovers seeking to celebrate their union in a manner as grand as their dreams. It’s here, amidst this blend of modern marvels and ancient traditions, that Wendy El-Khoury, CEO of Wedded Wonderland, had the pleasure of speaking with Zainab Al Salih, the visionary founder of Carousel Weddings & Events, about the magic of planning a destination wedding in Dubai.

From Corporate to Couture: The Genesis of Carousel Weddings & Events

Zainab’s journey into the world of wedding planning began 15 years ago, sparked by a heartfelt request from a bride new to Dubai and far from her family. What started as a venture into corporate events transformed into a calling that combined passion, creativity, and a deep understanding of love’s nuances. “Being a wedding planner in Dubai is incredibly fulfilling,” Zainab shares, highlighting the joy of working with diverse cultures and religions, embodying the very essence of what Dubai represents: a melting pot of traditions celebrated in unity.

The Dubai Advantage: Weather, Venues, and More

Dubai’s year-round sunshine and stable climate make it a perfect wedding destination, especially for winter weddings. With a plethora of luxury venues and religious centers catering to all faiths, Dubai ensures that every couple finds their dream setting. “What’s more iconic than a wedding with the Burj Khalifa as your backdrop, or the serene desert, or even by the sea?” Zainab muses, underlining the city’s versatility.

Beyond the Ceremony: Immersing Guests in Dubai’s Culture

Zainab and her team go beyond the wedding day, organizing excursions that showcase Dubai’s rich heritage, from charming old neighborhoods to modern marvels. This immersion into the city’s depth and culture ensures guests leave with experiences etched in their hearts.

Busting Myths: Dress Codes, Alcohol, and Party Life in Dubai

One of the most significant revelations from this conversation was the clarification of common misconceptions about Dubai. 

“Do I have to cover up? No, Dubai is a very open and progressive city with respect. As long as everyone is respectful, people are open to do whatever they want. Everyone lives in peace and harmony and everyone is accepting of each other.” shares Zainab. 

“Can we serve alcohol at our wedding? Can we dance?” Zainab answers confidently, “Yes, to both.” In Dubai, as long as respect is maintained, you’re free to celebrate your destination wedding in any way you desire, supported by the city’s hallmark of impeccable service and the warmth of local hospitality that welcomes expats and guests alike with open arms. The city’s foundation, built on passion, is evident in its happy residents and exceptional experiences, making it an ideal location for your special day.

The Planning Process: Expertise and Adaptability

Zainab’s expertise shines when discussing the logistical aspects of planning a wedding in Dubai. From navigating the challenges of the pandemic to accommodating last-minute requests, her approach is always calm, collected, and anticipatory. “We’ve planned weddings in as short as three weeks,” she states, showcasing her team’s adaptability and commitment to making dream weddings a reality, regardless of the timeline.

Dubai: A Future Top Destination for Weddings

Looking ahead, Zainab believes Dubai will ascend as one of the premier destinations for weddings globally. The city’s resilience during the pandemic, robust healthcare system, safety, and ease of navigation, combined with the universal language of English, make it not just a feasible choice but a preferred one for couples worldwide.

A Literary Homage to Dubai’s Wedding Scene

Zainab’s recent endeavor, a book on destination weddings in Dubai, is a testament to her love for the city and her desire to share its wedding wonders with the world. The book, a collaboration with Dubai Tourism, is a proud achievement for Zainab, highlighting the diverse traditions and cultures that make Middle Eastern weddings unique.

Planning a destination wedding in Dubai is about embracing the extraordinary, where every detail is imbued with luxury, culture, and unparalleled service. As Zainab Al Salih and Carousel Weddings & Events continue to weave wedding dreams into reality, Dubai cements its place as a city where love knows no bounds, and “I do” is just the beginning of a magical journey. Whether you dream of a lavish affair under the stars or an intimate beachfront vow exchange, Dubai promises a wedding experience as limitless as your love.

Watch the full interview between Wendy and Carousel Weddings & Events below!

READ MORE: WHY YOU SHOULD GET WEDDED AT THE PALACE DOWNTOWN IN DUBAI

Wedded Wonderland is excited to launch the Get Wedded in Dubai 2023 digital magazine, featuring the unparalleled beauty and charm of destination weddings in Dubai. The magazine showcases captivating real weddings across cultures, highlights leading venues, offers guidance from innovative wedding planners, fashion designers, and jewellers, and features a comprehensive directory of preferred suppliers nationwide.

Read the magazine below!