Arabic Majlis

In Middle Eastern culture, the Arabic Majlis is a traditional gathering place. It reflects generations of cultural heritage, hospitality and architectural excellence. More than just a room, this common room actively facilitates social interaction, sharing of information, decision-making, and relationship-building. Arabic Majlis combines beauty with cultural significance to make it a luxury in both traditional and modern homes.

Concept of the Arabic Majlis

The concept of the Arabic Majlis deeply embeds itself in the cultural fabric of the Middle East. It represents a community gathering space designed to foster harmony and promote values ​​such as kindness and consideration for others. It is a multi-functional space for family or social gatherings on the one hand or political and commercial events on the other, thus promoting local cultural heritage. Furthermore, it shows how important people-to-people contacts, especially face-to-face, remain in Arab societies.

Historical Roots & Significance of Arabic Majlis

“Majlis” comes from the Arabic word “jalasa”, meaning to sit. In the olden days, these were places where local elders or leaders would meet up for governance, dispute resolutions, and important decisions. However, besides its practicality, it shows Arab hospitality and provides the basis for the transmission of oral traditions based on certain cultures.

Historically, the majlis of the pavilion belonged to the Bedouin tribe, which reserved a special place for visitors. The hosts welcomed their guests with coffee and a day of respect and hospitality. This concept changed over time in such a way that it evolved from pavilions to permanent structures, but its main purpose was still to facilitate conversation in the community.

Embracing Design Principles & Interior Design in Arabic Majlis

Layout & Structural Design

Large open spaces that are mostly rectangular or rectangular and can comfortably accommodate many people characterize a typical majlis. Floor mats or sofas that are not so high on the walls themselves usually provide seating, leaving the center empty. This program encourages interaction and makes people feel at home.

Decorative Elements For Majlis

Majlis is a complete showcase of color, pattern and print. A traditional Arabic text, usually containing verses or poetry from the Quran, often presents itself to enhance spirituality. Timber and plaster tile are used to create geometric patterns, a hallmark of Islamic art, for harmony and balance.

In majlis, rugs play an important aesthetic and practical role. Wonderful hand embroidery is used to add warmth and comfort to the space. The colors used are deep reds, golds, blues and greens, reflecting the cultural heritage and natural resources of the region.

Creating Lighting And Atmosphere

Majlis lighting often has a soft atmosphere achieved by lamps, chandeliers and wall sconces. These recessed lighting fixtures, equipped with inlaid glass and stunning metal panels, create beautiful light and shadows, thus fostering an atmosphere of calmness throughout the room.

Highlighting the Role of Arabic Majlis in Society

Hosting Social Gatherings | Arabic Majlis

Social networks, whether a family gathering, a party, or any other informal gathering of people, welcome guests and encourage relationships. The host shows kindness and respect to their guests by serving Arabic coffee and dates.

Preserving Cultural Heritage | Arabic Majlis

In this fast-paced world marked by globalization and technological progress, Majlis stands out as a cultural preservation institution. It showcases and celebrates traditional art while recalling classic tales, traditional knowledge stories and other elements that connect younger generations to their roots.

Facilitating Political and Business | Arabic Majlis

In many Arab countries, it is common practice for political leaders or business executives to form majlis. This is because of its historical importance as a place of negotiation or mediation.

Observing Etiquette in the Arabic Majlis

Greetings And Welcome

As you enter the majlis, immediately greet everybody with “as-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you). The oldest person will be the first one to shake your hand, followed by everyone else. Before entering, you must remove your shoes unless your host says otherwise. Be quiet when you walk in so other people don’t wake up from the noise.

Respecting The Seating Arrangement

Respect the seating arrangement. Older adults or senior individuals can sit in a separate chair, usually the one at the front of the room. Honored guests sit near their designated spot, alternatively try to grab a seat to make sure no one gets left behind.

Taking Part In Conversation

Be respectful and courteous when speaking. Avoid controversial or highly sensitive topics except from your host. Make eye contact.

Giving And Receiving Food

Take the kahawa (Arabic coffee) and dates, which are served admirably. Hold your coffee cup in your right hand. The server will serve the coffee from his/her right side, or he/she will start with the guest who’s well-aged on top. When you have eaten enough, stir it to the side. Set it down if you want more. 

The General Character | Arabic Majlis

Stay polite. Do not spread your legs or lean into a chair. Make sure your mobile device is in silent mode and avoid using it during meetings. Wait for the host’s instructions as you begin your meal. Eat and drink with your right hand.

Respect For Older adults And Hospitality

Let older adults speak first, giving them comfortable seats. Also, remember to thank them warmly for their hospitality before you leave. Appreciate the meeting and express your appreciation.

Leaving the Majlis

Leave quietly and respectfully. Tell everyone as you leave, and thank each of them individually. The guests can walk you to the door when it is time to leave. Appreciate this.

Cultural Sensitivities

Dress respectfully according to local custom. Don’t criticize your hosts or their home and how they received you.

Radyinterior and the Arabic Majlis

Balancing Tradition And Innovation

RadyInterior designs, as such, integrate both traditional aspects with present-day aspects, making them highly suitable for any majlis design using geometric patterns, calligraphy designs and others, thus ensuring the space remains true to its cultural period and is built with a combination of modern amenities like smart lighting and affordable furniture.

Featuring Customized Items

This style shines through custom design elements unique to RadyInterior Design in most of their projects. They include customized furniture pieces in the Majlis, hand-conceived woodwork crafted especially for each client, and uniquely created artworks. Every room in these spaces serves a purpose: to enhance the decorative appeal of the Majlis and to create uniqueness in each area according to the owner’s preferences.

Enhancing The Guest Experience

At RadyInterior, our design philosophy is based on the belief that it’s all about making the visitor feel at home. In a majlis, create a comfortable atmosphere for guests by paying careful attention to details such as seating arrangements, choice of lighting, and choice of clothing, among other factors.

Conclusion On The Arabic Majlis

With a design that embodies the Islamic art system and rich cultural heritage passed down from one generation to the next, Arabic Majlis stands out as a timeless symbol of hospitality, culture, and community even when modern influences have relieved and other benefits have improved; However, its significance in being a meeting place for all, taking part in groups and preserving such traditions remains.

The RadyInterior approach to majlis symbolizes the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. As such, RadyInteriors creates timeless yet modern majlis spaces built on a combination of antiquity, the principle of materials, and sustainability. Majlis resist change because they remain local spaces that bring us together even to this day when people live faster.