Dear Ali: I'm planning to hold an engagement party, and will probably rent an event hall in a local hotel. Since I don't have many friends, I want to invite my co-workers. What should I keep in mind to guarantee that my Emirati colleagues will come? HA, Dubai
Dear HA: Alf mabrook (a thousand congratulations) on your engagement. This is a big deal, so your guests must feel how special they are by you inviting them face-to-face while handing them an engagement card. If you can't reach them in person, perhaps call them, send a text message or an e-card invitation with the details. After that, call them to follow up.
Do send a message or call again a day before the event to remind and confirm that they’re coming. But only do this for your favourite friends and colleagues – it’s not necessary for every guest you invite.
When booking a venue, try to have it in a popular location. A well-known hotel for such occasions, or a wedding hall, would be better than a lesser-known location, and make sure there will be available parking and good customer service.
Another important thing to consider is the day you hold the event. Don’t expect people to show up on Friday, even though it’s an official day off in the country. Friday, for us, is a family day, and most Emiratis spend this day with their loved ones. Perhaps do it on Thursday night – that’s the best. If you can’t, that doesn’t mean no one will show up, but it will depend on where they live and how far they have to travel to get to the party.
Regarding the time, try to consider prayer times. The best will be after the isha prayer, which is about 7pm to 7.30pm. If you’re unsure, you can always check the prayer schedule published in local newspapers or online.
If you’re inviting many Muslim guests, try to avoid serving alcohol or pork. In any case, inform your guests about your agenda for the event: the dress code, type of food and entertainment programmes. If it meets their expectations, it will help them decide whether to attend or not.
Finally, don’t panic if your guests don’t arrive on time. It’s normal to be late for such informal events here. Though you can add the time when the party will end to your agenda to avoid anybody missing it.
Dear Ali: How can I find a charity organisation for donation in the UAE? SA, Ajman
Dear SA: There are many organisations serving this purpose in the UAE. As individuals, we all are inspired by our leaders to participate in charity campaigns and volunteering throughout the year. Our religion also teaches us to help those in need.
When you are planning to donate or become a part of the volunteering team, choose a cause you sympathise with most, and check for suitable local organisations. Since you are in Ajman, there are organisations there such as Al Ihsan Charity Association, which was founded by Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman. It helps support those who experience difficulties in life, distributes goods to the families and orphans, and assists in families' development projects, medical assistance and religious charity campaigns. You can contact it through its website at www.alihsan.ae.
Once you find a suitable organisation, I’m sure you will meet a lot of new good people who might become lifetime friends.
Ali Al Saloom is a cultural adviser and public speaker from the UAE. Follow @AskAli on Twitter, and visit www.ask-ali.com to ask him a question.
