Guide

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

When Is the Next UAE Public Holiday? Eid Al Adha 2025 Dates Revealed

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Where to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025 in Dubai

An Enchanting Regency-Era Evening Awaits at Dubai's Bridgerton Candlelight Concert

Education

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Nurturing Compassionate Leaders: 8 Ways Dibber Preschools Prepares Your Child

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

Money

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

UAE Residents Be Wary of Food Delivery Scams

5 Signs You've Been Scammed Over the Phone, and What to Do Next

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

Home

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Choithrams Announces Launch of All-Women Operated Store in the UAE

Where to Order Same-Day Valentine's Day Flowers in the UAE

Car

These Are Dubai's New Public Parking Fees From April 2025

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Wellness

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Top 7 Scenic UAE Jogging and Running Routes

IVF in the UAE: Unmarried Non-Muslim Couples Are Allowed to Undergo IVF

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

Need to vent - shaking with fury

98 posts / 0 new

Last post

Log in to post new content in the forum.

2287

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 07:37

TDB, I can only guess your nationality, but whatever happened to the days that the Brits knew exactly what to wear to and how to behave at a wedding? I think smart chic is really a Dubai thing, so can see how others might not have an idea. With respect to your guests bringing others etc., that is absolutely ridiculous. Don't you have a master of ceremonies (or else a good friend) who can sort that out with your guests?

IzzyOnTheSeat82823

5334

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 07:32

I don't get the bridezilla comments - there is always a dress code at a wedding and to expect people to stick to it is just good manners. I mean, can you imagine anyone rocking up to Wills and Kate's wedding in shorts and a t-shirt?

1692

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 07:25

Its easy for us to all say chill out, but I get your frustration. Stress levels are a b#!ch where weddings are involved... I was on jury service, the case was initially 6 months long, and then 8, then we tipped into the year, then 14 months and on it crept! We finished deliberating 10 days before we and 16 guests flew out for the wedding. Fortunately I can look back and laugh now, at the time everything is magnified, but you've done the most important bit 18 months ago. Forget everyone else and just focus on you and DH having a fab day. I'm not much use for hairdressers, but the girls in Ted Morgan are great and I think they are open on a Friday, try speaking to them or the owner and explain, the owner is lovely and I am sure she would do what she could to help. Like some others I haven't a clue when it comes to dressing, so smart chic woukd result in me wearing jeans and a silky top, you will laugh about all the shinanigans eventually trust me. Have a super day xx

434

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 06:46

It is our wedding blessing on Fri - we have spent 18 months preparing, spent the equivalent of a house deposit and have family flying in from all over the world. I am just so angry as it is so stressful and people are just pathetic. For example: * Hair dresser stood me up for the trial and now after rescheduling stood me up again, 3 days before the wedding. How the F am I going to find someone to do my hair now? * Venue demands husband's Emirates ID to waive tourism fee - since he hasn't got this yet we are being charged 3.5k even tho we have residency visas * Guests are being ridiculous - cancelling last minute, asking to bring uninvited guests and now my table plan is totally screwed as half the names don't make sense * Guests have not bothered to even read the invitations, getting the venue wrong (wrong hotel) and TIME! It says ceremony to start at 3:30 and people are like, yes we will get there 3:30 - NO they need to be seated at that time * Guests not understanding dress code - we want smart chic, NOT clubbing outfits, The Oscars style ballgowns or shorts * Guests finding all the above utterly hilarious when I correct them - err no, please can you understand it is extremely stressful I don't understand how some people are grown adults and cannot work out how to get to a venue on time wearing the correct attire. I cannot wait to get on honeymoon (yes we lost our deposit as well to a company that went bust) as laying on this blessing is more hassle than its worth. We eloped originally and I really regret bothering having a wedding, mostly for the benefit of others, who don't give a sh!t how much effort we have put in. I don't understand what is surprising about ANY of this to you - this is how people behave here with regard to social functions - all the time!

485

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 06:09

TDB - focus on what's important. A perfect day is having fun with family and friends.

511

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:49

I feel your pain, we had 2 weddings, one in the UK and one in hubby's home country. Everyone kept saying 'oh you're so lucky' I just thought it was a major stress organising everything twice over as there were people dropping out (but we were still stuck paying 800dhs a head for meals), swapping plus ones last minute, changing meal choices, plus arranging dresses and suits to fit people who were not in the UK was a nightmare. And I was pretty lucky as each of our families in the respective countries did most of the heavy lifting with organising most things and I still found it super stressful. At a certain point I stopped worrying about it (I was just so over thinking about wedding stuff) and all we really wanted was for our families to enjoy it so I just hoped for the best. We had a great days :) For the EID if it the receipt has been stamped by the EID office (which they do for free) it has the same validity as the actual card and can be used for visa renewals and everything so they are having you on. I would complain big time to the highest level possible as that is an outrageous excuse and they are clearly hoping you don't challenge it.

588

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:30

TDB, not meant as a critique, but people wont remember what you said/did/wore. They will remember how you made them feel. Like you I am a little bit of a perfectionist, everything must be just so, and it can take its toll on you. Find your happy zone and STAY there by whatever means for the duration of the ceremony, you will thank yourself later for catching moments in time that will stay with you that otherwise would have been lost to the stress of trying to be organized.

5400

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:20

Thanks WO - I think I found someone, anyone heard of Steve Saleh? Yes it is smart brunch / world cup / wedding attire! I am defo going to pursue this EID charge then, since it seems they are being totally unreasonable. I did query it and fight it, but was told it is govt regulations. Maybe time to get the local friend involved lol! Make sure he doesn't forget to wear his kandoura. Lol. Excellent!

2383

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:11

So sorry you are having all this additional stress and some of the comments on here won't be helping at all. As for invited guests asking to bring others, I find that incredible at this late stage (or any time really) and rather rude of them. I know what I would be tempted to say to them!! Hairworks are also open on a Friday. They have some good stylists at the Ibn Batuta branch but if you are trying a new salon you really need to go for a trial run before 'the day'. I'm sure everything will fall into place and you will have a fantastic day. Try and relax and just enjoy it and then go away on honeymoon and have a lovely time. Good luck.

Doubting Thomas

2298

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:11

Thanks WO - I think I found someone, anyone heard of Steve Saleh? Yes it is smart brunch / world cup / wedding attire! I am defo going to pursue this EID charge then, since it seems they are being totally unreasonable. I did query it and fight it, but was told it is govt regulations. Maybe time to get the local friend involved lol! :-o

493

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:10

Thanks WO - I think I found someone, anyone heard of Steve Saleh? Yes it is smart brunch / world cup / wedding attire! I am defo going to pursue this EID charge then, since it seems they are being totally unreasonable. I did query it and fight it, but was told it is govt regulations. Maybe time to get the local friend involved lol! Make sure he doesn't forget to wear his kandoura. Lol.

1601

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:05

One of the most beautiful weddings I ever attended was in a small country church reception in the school hall, tacky streamers, jam jars with a few wild flowers shoved in on top of plastic table cloths......great home cooked food and a bride in a borrowed wedding dress. Not having a go at TDB or any prospective brides, but honestly feel that the costs of weddings and expectations of the couples and their families are spiralling out of control.

493

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:03

Don't worry, TDB! Things will sort themselves out, they always do in the end. Re: your hair - suggest that when you book you tell salon it's just a 'v important reception' as opposed to a wedding (and get quote upfront) or you will get fleeced as they'll think you are despo 3 days before the event. Re: dress code: tbh I don't know what smart chic is either. Is it basically just smart wedding attire (as in what you would were to uk wedding or Dubai world cup)? I have to say I understand why you would specify dress code as you have ppl of different cultures attending. Anyway, try to relax and enjoy the day. I'm sure you will look and feel amazing :-)

4423

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:02

Tell the hotel that you will make a formal complaint against them. It is wrong. Email the GM and cc everyone higher up. Someone one on here will have a gm contact at the hotel - I'm sure if it

816

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 22:00

Just Joy salon in khalifa A. #025560640 is open Fridays in abu Dabi

BubblingCreek81744

336

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:56

Tell the hotel that you will make a formal complaint against them. It is wrong. Email the GM and cc everyone higher up.

2738

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:50

Life's far too short to be overly dramatic all the time.

1601

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:35

TDB find a quiet spot sit down and take a few gulping deep breaths. It is YOUR and DHs day you have done all you can now sit back don't try and micro manage.You have got some really good tips take those that make sense to you.If you don't allow yourself to enjoy the day you have just wasted all the money time and effort you have put into your blessing. To heck with everyone else YOU enjoy YOUR day. I must say however that the days of people RSVPing seems to be a thing of the past,really bad manners in my opinion. My DS and DIL also had 2 weddings because of relatives kicking off........had pretty much the same outcome as you but DIL was amazing ,water off a ducks back ,she enjoyed both...... Have a wonderful blessing and enjoy yourself.:)

1440

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:29

Ted Morgan at Motor City are open on Friday mornings. Is there a hairdresser in the hotel that you are holding the wedding? If you could get there before Friday for a trial it maybe worth booking with them? I'm sure most of your family and friends will appreciate all the planning and will enjoy the day celebrating your wedding. Try not to stress too much and focus on enjoying the day.

4423

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:23

Turkaz is open on Fridays and the girls are just lovely, I'd highly recommend them and pretty sure they will have someone available to do your hair. Also the have a makeup lady if you need one if them. Yeah, I like the change the booking into your game idea! And name and shame them for not accepting a copy of the application form, even the rta accept the form! Maybe send out an email, reconfirming hotel with exact address and website address as well as defined smart chic description? It'll all be alright on the day, just remember it's the man you're marrying/being blessing too not the family & friends x

816

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:09

[b'>[b'>I am pretty sure juans is open Fridays [/b'>[/b'>not so sure if they are what you are looking for though. Dont stress her out even more. that bad?!

816

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:08

try Bell Femme on Beach Road. i think they are open Fridays and they do wedding style hair

337

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:08

[b'>[b'>I am pretty sure juans is open Fridays [/b'>[/b'>not so sure if they are what you are looking for though. Dont stress her out even more.

Doubting Thomas

2298

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:06

or can't you change the booking to your name ?

816

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:06

I am pretty sure juans is open Fridays not so sure if they are what you are looking for though. As simpleasabc said just sort the guest you want to be around because the rest will take care of themselves- probably even regardless of your arrangements. Take a breath and stay calm. Stress is horrid for your skin and you would not want a breakout. My cousin sounds similiar to you. She put in massive effort at her wedding and frankly no one remembers all the details except how demanding she came across. She truly resents that that is how people remeber her wedding day the most. She was so far in the detail and stress that she could not see it. I cant be sure this is how you come off to those around you but just basing on your post it may be so. I hope everything works out and flows for you on your wedding celebration.

5400

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:05

The salon I am thinking of is Essentials. Their website doesn't work in Firefox or Opera, so I can't tell if they are open on Friday mornings still. This is their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Essentials-Salon-Dubai/110427449020141 Good luck. Can't your hubby get the ID people to get a wriggle on?

Doubting Thomas

2298

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:05

Thanks simpleasabc, at last some helpful advice. Clearly, based on other replies, this is my fault, and no one has ever got stressed planning a wedding before. I am not asking much - please turn up to the correct venue, on time and not wearing a bin bag. If that makes me a bridezilla then so be it. We actually got married 18 months ago just me and DH in a registry office and it was the most romantic day, but our family and friends were desperate we did something that included them too, hence this day. We begged and pleaded re: the EID as we have the application form but it needs to be the actual card. Which sucks. do you happen to have a copy of his previous one - I know it will have expired but the info doesn't date.... nope he never made a copy... I am not making fun of anyone for what they wear but surely some common sense applies? so what IS smart chic ? maybe they just don't understand ? same with the venue, if they're not local maybe it's not clear

337

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:02

You just need to chill out and relax a bit. Things will go wrong.....they always do but it wont matter on the day Theres plenty of time to be grumpy when your married LOL

Doubting Thomas

2298

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:00

Thanks simpleasabc, at last some helpful advice. Clearly, based on other replies, this is my fault, and no one has ever got stressed planning a wedding before. I am not asking much - please turn up to the correct venue, on time and not wearing a bin bag. If that makes me a bridezilla then so be it. We actually got married 18 months ago just me and DH in a registry office and it was the most romantic day, but our family and friends were desperate we did something that included them too, hence this day. We begged and pleaded re: the EID as we have the application form but it needs to be the actual card. Which sucks. do you happen to have a copy of his previous one - I know it will have expired but the info doesn't date....

dolleymadison85571

514

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 November 2013 - 21:00

Thanks simpleasabc, at last some helpful advice. Clearly, based on other replies, this is my fault, and no one has ever got stressed planning a wedding before. I am not asking much - please turn up to the correct venue, on time and not wearing a bin bag. If that makes me a bridezilla then so be it. We actually got married 18 months ago just me and DH in a registry office and it was the most romantic day, but our family and friends were desperate we did something that included them too, hence this day. We begged and pleaded re: the EID as we have the application form but it needs to be the actual card. Which sucks. You're friends and family were desperate to attend a party and then be made fun of and yelled at for what they wear and when they ask for clarification? Something sounds not quite right.

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 10 Low Cost Airlines in the UAE

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

UAE Breaks Heat Record With 51.6°C - Here’s How to Stay Safe and Sane This Summer

Best educational summer camps for teenagers in Dubai: MDX Summer Camps

Experience Summer Learning at its Best with MDX Study Camps at Middlesex University Dubai

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Real Madrid World Dubai - Summer Offer AED 199 per ticket

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

Scholarship opportunities at the Swiss international Scientific School Dubai (SISD)

Dubai IB School's Class of 2025 Secures Over $10 Million in University Scholarships

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

UAE president announces 2025 will be the 'Year of Community' in the emirates

Confirmed: 2025 Will Be The 'Year of Community' in The UAE

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

List of confirmed UAE public holidays in 2025

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Dubai's gravity-driven tunnel to reduce flood risks by 700%

Pictured: Flooded roads from the record-breaking storm that hit Dubai in April 2024.

Dubai Flood Risk to Be Cut Down by 700% With New Tunnel

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai for busy moms

8 Beauty Treatments in Dubai: Self-Care Recommendations for Busy Moms

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

E-scooters are no longer banned on the Dubai Metro stations and trains

RTA Finally Lifts E-Scooter Ban From Dubai Metro

Spa packages at Saray Spa in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Step Into the Ultimate Relaxation Bliss With Saray Spa's Pampering Packages

How to book Dubai taxi through WhatsApp

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

Experience Extended Stays and Special Savings at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort UAE

Soak Up the Summer With the Ultimate UAE Staycation Special

RTA Dubai flying taxi official launch date

Image credit: Joby Aviation.

RTA Finally Confirms Launch Date of Dubai's Flying Taxis