Majlis is an Arabic term that translates to “a place of sitting” in a communal setting where guests are made to feel welcomed and respected. Most people in Dubai are probably accustomed to the Arabic Majlis seating in living spaces and social gatherings. However, not everyone may be aware of how these comfortable sofas have become a reflection of heritage and Arab hospitality.
The timeless design of Arabic Majlis seating knows no bounds. People all over the world have taken elements of its design to transform living and event spaces and foster an intimate, relaxed, and inviting atmosphere at the same time.
At Desert River Event Rentals, we offer the Arabica Lounge Collection as an elegant and modern take on the traditional Arabic Majlis seating. We collaborated with Kuky by Valentina to make it possible and simple for you to enliven event spaces in Dubai with the culture and comfort embedded in Arabic Majlis seating. Here are the elements that we incorporated in our reimagined design.
Elements of Arabic Majlis Seating That Enliven Event Spaces in Dubai
1. Cultural Significance
The cultural significance of Arabic Majlis seating is all about embodying warmth, openness, and respect–values that resonate with Arabian hospitality. It is about creating a space where people can sit and have face-to-face interactions.
We conceptualised the Arabica Lounge Collection so that event spaces in Dubai can have a designated area where guests can sit side by side or across from each other, making it easy for them to mingle while enjoying food and drinks. This sofa seating option comfortably fits 6 to 12 people, and more if you add the Arabica orange and zigzag ottomans.
2. Lounge Seating Option
Arabic Majlis is typically a low seating option with floor cushions and low wooden tables. Its design is intended to invite people to lounge in a relaxed sitting position so that they can engage in deep and meaningful conversations.
While our Arabica Lounge Collection is elevated from the floor, it remains to be a cosy lounge area with low-wood coffee tables for event spaces in Dubai. Here, guests can sit on a soft sofa with cushions while they exchange stories and bond. The bonus is that they will also have an easier time switching to and from sitting and standing postures.
3. Lush Colour Palette
Traditional Arabic Majlis seating is characterised by a stunning contrast of warm and earthy tones, including shades of red, yellow, and brown. The lush colour palette is an homage to the deserts and landscapes of the Middle East.
Desert River’s Arabica Lounge Collection modernises a reminiscent colour palette that blends vibrant and neutral tones like cherry red, orange, and olive green. Rest assured, this lounge area will accentuate event spaces in Dubai, whether indoors or outdoors.
4. Rich Decor and Details
Arabic Majlis seating gained global recognition for its aesthetic appeal and intricate craftsmanship. These comfortable sofas are lauded for their rich decor and details, which integrate natural elements, Islamic art, and geometry with opulent fabrics such as velvet, brocade, and silk.
The Arabica Lounge Collection boasts captivating geometric designs and high-quality upholstery for the cushions. This lounge set is truly eye-catching, with a gradient zigzag similar to the iconic Missoni print, chevron, and harlequin patterns on premium fabric, including velvet.
Event Styling Tips with Arabic Majlis Themes
Arabic Majlis seating works well with many event styles. Here are four styling ideas using Majlis seating that work well for different event themes. Each one can be used for indoor or outdoor events.
Boho-Arabian Nights
The setup usually includes floor cushions, low wooden tables, woven rugs, and soft lighting. Natural fabrics and earth-tone colours help create a calm atmosphere.
Lanterns, tasselled throws, and low-hanging drapes can be added for texture. This type of layout is often used for outdoor events, evening gatherings, or informal social areas where guests are encouraged to sit on the floor or lounge at a lower level.
It works well for events where flexibility and comfort are essential, such as pre-wedding functions or creative workshops.
Luxury Desert Chic
This theme focuses on neutral tones and a clean, structured layout. Raised seating like low sofas or benches, is often paired with light-coloured wood or stone-style tables. The space is kept open and minimal, with a few key pieces instead of dense decoration.
Common additions include outdoor rugs, planters, and simple lighting fixtures. The design allows for airflow and movement, making it suitable for outdoor or tented spaces, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
It’s often used for formal receptions, dinner settings, or corporate gatherings in outdoor locations like gardens or rooftops.
Ramadan Serenity Lounge
This setup is calm and focused on comfort. Floor seating is standard, often arranged in small groups around low tables. Lighting is kept soft, using lanterns or warm-tone LEDs. Colour schemes are usually beige, cream, or soft gold, with occasional accents like dark blue or green.
The layout allows space for movement, reflection, and serving light food or beverages. It’s often used in hotels, community centres, or pop-up areas during Ramadan.
This style supports a peaceful setting and is suitable for both private and public use, particularly when creating a temporary lounge or a prayer-friendly space.
Modern Majlis Fusion
This approach combines traditional elements with modern design. It often uses raised seating, modular furniture, or simple geometric tables, paired with Arabic-style cushions or patterned rugs.
Lighting may include built-in LED tables or indirect lighting. The colour palette usually includes greys, blacks, and whites, with small bursts of traditional colour for contrast.
This type of Majlis works well in mixed-use venues, where traditional themes need to blend into contemporary surroundings, such as gallery openings, media lounges, or brand installations.
Event Theme Ideas Featuring Arabic Majlis
Arabic Majlis seating can fit into a wide range of event formats. It supports both formal and informal settings and is often used to create small social spaces, breakout areas, or feature lounges within larger venues.
Cultural Appreciation Nights
These events aim to showcase heritage and hospitality. Majlis seating is often used to reflect local traditions. Floor-level seating, patterned textiles, and regional décor create a space that encourages social interaction.
Food stations, Arabic coffee setups, and live music are sometimes included. This layout is suitable for schools, embassies, or public venues hosting cultural programmes or national day events.
It provides guests with a setting that feels authentic and promotes understanding of local customs.
VIP Tent Lounges for Product Launches
Majlis seating is commonly used to create a quiet, comfortable lounge within larger launch events. Inside tents or cordoned-off spaces, the seating allows invited guests or media teams to relax and talk.
The layout often includes low sofas, neutral cushions, and structured coffee tables. It’s paired with branding elements, product displays, and refreshments. Lighting is usually soft and indirect, avoiding bright overhead sources.
This setup is common in outdoor product showcases, media previews, or temporary brand activations.
Ramadan or Eid Pop-Ups
These events are usually seasonal and short-term. The focus is on community gathering, food sharing, and a respectful, calm setting. Majlis seating is arranged in rows or small groups, with space left for walking paths or buffet areas.
The materials are often practical and lightweight for easy setup and removal. Décor is usually understated, using traditional lanterns, drapes, and low lighting. Colour choices are soft and natural, with gold or blue accents.
Used widely in hotels, shopping centres, or public spaces, this layout supports large volumes of visitors while maintaining a welcoming environment.
Desert Glam Weddings
In open-air wedding setups, especially those in desert or remote outdoor venues, Majlis seating provides a central lounge area for guests. This may be used before the ceremony, during photos, or as a casual seating zone near the main reception.
Design elements include large rugs, layered cushions, and neutral-coloured sofas. Accessories may include candles, small tables, or potted plants. The design is usually symmetrical and aligned with the overall wedding theme.
This approach works well with small groups and helps divide the space into functional zones without needing hard barriers.
Desert River’s Lounge Crate and Arabica Lounge Collection
Desert River’s Arabica Lounge Collection was designed to complement the Lounge Crate Collection, which includes a lounge set for 6 to 12 people, complete with low-wood tables, bars, and cocktail tables. What makes the Arabica and the Lounge Crate Collection the perfect combo is that they offer a stylish and customisable arrangement that will adapt to the layout of event spaces in Dubai.
The cushions, table runners, and ottomans of the Arabica Lounge Collection are the perfect accessories for the modular sofa set of the Lounge Crate Collection. What’s more, you can choose from 3 available colours for the wood and sofa cushions to match your event motif.
Final Thoughts on Our Modern Take on the Arabic Majlis Seating
Desert River’s Arabica Lounge Collection is a modern take on the Arabic Majlis seating. We worked with Kuky by Valentina to design cushions, table runners, and ottomans that encapsulate the elements that made Arabic Majlis seating a global symbol and a great representation of Arabian hospitality.
We offer the Arabica Lounge Collection together with the Lounge Crate Collection for rent to add cultural depth to event spaces in Dubai, and to provide them with a stylish, customisable, and comfortable lounge area. For any inquiries regarding event furniture rentals, including lighting and decorations, please contact us at Desert River. Our team will be happy to assist and accommodate your specific event requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Arabic Majlis only used for traditional events?
No, not at all. While Majlis setups are common during Ramadan, Eid, or cultural festivals, they are also widely used for modern events and celebrations. These include product launches, beach weddings, corporate Iftars, or VIP lounges at exhibitions.
Many clients mix traditional cushions and rugs with modern furniture to create a more updated version. We refer to this as a modern fusion of the Majlis.
Can I use Arabic Majlis seating for outdoor events in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?
Yes, Majlis seating works very well for outdoor spaces. It’s often used in gardens, rooftops, desert setups, and even beachfronts. For outdoor events, we recommend checking if your venue has shading or if you’ll need parasols or tents. At Desert River, we help you plan according to the season and surface. We also suggest rugs and seating that withstand wear on sand, grass, or tile.
Is Majlis seating comfortable for guests?
Majlis seating is designed for comfort, especially in relaxed or social events. It allows guests to sit in small groups and talk easily. Floor seating with cushions is cosy for casual settings, while raised Majlis sofas or ottomans offer more back support for longer stays or formal setups.
If you’re hosting guests from mixed age groups or need accessible seating, we can combine different types in the same space, like pairing floor cushions with nearby benches.
How do I rent Arabic Majlis furniture in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Renting Majlis seating from Desert River is easy. You can:
-
Browse online at desertriver.rentals
-
Visit our showroom in Al Quoz, Dubai
-
Or contact our rentals team to help plan the setup
We’ll help you choose a layout that fits your space, event type, and guest count. Delivery and collection are included, and we make sure everything arrives ready to go.