The Arabic term “Majlis” (مجلس) means “sitting place” or “assembly” in English. In Arab culture, Majlis refers to a space, often indoors, where people gather to socialize, discuss various topics, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. In traditional Arab societies, the Arabic Majlis is of great cultural importance and serves as a center for social interaction, hospitality, and sometimes even political discourse.
It is a space where people from all walks of life, including family members, friends, neighbors, and guests, are welcomed and encouraged to engage in conversation and connection with each other.
Arabic Majlis Design
The design and arrangement of a Majlis can be different depending on factors such as region, social status, and personal preferences. It may consist of cushions or low seating arrangements placed around the perimeter of the room or courtyard, often facing each other to make conversation easier.
The atmosphere of the Majlis is usually warm, pleasant, and conducive to quiet socializing.
Importance of Majlis
Arabic Majlis has a significant value to Arab people and acts as a session of peace gathering and connection.
1. Preserving Culture: The Majlis tradition keeps Qatar culture alive by respecting its customs and history. It helps to transfer traditions and values from one generation to the next.
2. Building Community: The Majlis brings people together and strengthens bonds within families and communities. It is a place where ideas are shared, fostering connections and relationships in a world that is often fast-paced and individualistic.
3. Hospitality and Kindness: In Arabic culture, the Majlis symbolizes hospitality and generosity. It is about welcoming guests warmly, offering fresh food, and engaging in polite conversation to make them feel respected and valued.
4. Problem-Solving Center: The Majlis remains a space for important discussions, decision-making, and solving community or family issues. It is inclusive and egalitarian, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and considered.
5. Modern Adaptation: While traditional floor seating is common, modern Majlis designs now include comfortable options like sofas and chairs to suit different preferences and lifestyles, showing flexibility in design and architecture.
The Arabian Majlis Hospitality
Hospitality is a fundamental and very important value in Arab culture, and Majlis perfectly reflects this by creating an atmosphere where friends and strangers alike are welcomed and valued.
Guests are warmly welcomed and served refreshments that keep the tradition of sharing and generosity alive. Hosting in a majlis is not just an occasion. It is a meaningful ritual that shows the admiration and respect of the host toward his guests.
4 Types of Arabic Majlis
There are four types of Arabic Majlis in Arab culture, which we briefly explain in the following paragraphs.
1. Religious Majlis, Arab Origins
In the past, Arabs would gather in religious Majlis to discuss important spiritual issues and clear up any confusion. Originally, these gatherings were only focused on religious education and beliefs. However, over time, they expanded to discuss other topics.
During religious gatherings, it is important to have appropriate clothing and a comfortable place to sit without distractions. The main purpose of these gatherings is to promote understanding, beliefs, and religious reforms.
Before these Majlis, people followed opinions without proper research. But in these meetings, complete research is done to clarify religious concepts.
2. Political Meetings, Talks and Results
In every country, politics is divided into different groups. Some parties take strong action against wrongdoers, while others focus on making life easier for people. In today’s world, it is very important to discuss the goals of each political party from different angles.
The purpose of political Majlis is to organize gatherings where political issues are discussed, and conclusions are presented for the benefit of the country.
In order to make these meetings useful, it is important to have background knowledge about the topic being discussed so that the discussions lead to meaningful results.
3. Social Aspects, Key Conclusions
Our social life and what we know fills a large part of our days. We build communities to make life easier, but sometimes conflicts arise when people with different ways of thinking come together.
How can we prevent this? The obvious answer is to talk to each other. Social Majlis are gatherings where people come together to discuss social issues, whether problems or celebrations. They gather different ideas and discuss how they can make changes together.
These gatherings can have a modern interior theme, but it is important to pay attention to the seating arrangements.
4. Residential Majlis, a Warm Welcome
Some people decorate the room in a traditional Majlis style to welcome family and guests without any serious discussion. This type of interior design reflects a vintage theme and provides a cozy place to sit.
What Are Majlis Manners?
Majlis manners are respectful behaviors and customs that are observed in gatherings in Arab culture. These behaviors include showing hospitality to guests by offering them drinks and making them feel comfortable.
It is also important to greet everyone warmly and engage in polite conversation. In addition, participants should refrain from interrupting others while speaking and listen carefully to what others are saying.
Respect for elders and those in positions of authority is also emphasized, and respect is shown through gestures such as standing when entering a room.
It is also necessary to observe modesty in dress and behavior in the Majlis gatherings. This means dressing appropriately and avoiding behavior that may be considered inappropriate or disrespectful.
In general, Majlis manners reflect the values of hospitality, respect, and community that are deeply rooted in Arab culture, creating a warm atmosphere and camaraderie during gatherings.
How to Make Arabic Majlis?
Creating an Arabic Majlis in your home is a perfect way to infuse your space with warmth, hospitality, and a sense of Middle Eastern tradition. To begin, choose a room or area in your home that you can dedicate to the Majlis. It can be a living room, a cozy corner, or even an outdoor patio.
Next, focus on the seating arrangement. Traditionally, Arabic Majlis have low sofas, cushions, and floor seating to encourage gatherings and intimate conversations. You can achieve this goal by arranging comfortable floor cushions or low sofas in a circle or square formation and creating a pleasant space for guests to relax and socialize.
After setting up the seating, pay attention to the decor and atmosphere of the Majlis. Incorporate elements inspired by Arabic culture, such as vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and decorative accents such as lanterns, rugs, and ornate pillows.
These details help to show the traditional charm and elegance of an Arabic Majlis. Also, consider adding natural elements such as plants or flowers to bring a sense of freshness and vitality to the space.
Finally, do not forget hospitality. In true Arabic tradition, entertaining and welcoming guests with drinks is key. Serve traditional Arabic coffee or tea with dates or sweets to create an authentic experience for your guests.
Above all, remember that the most important feature of an Arab gathering is to create a space where friends and family can come together to enjoy each other’s company, share stories, and make lasting memories in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
What Is Arabic Majlis Sofa?
An Arabic Majlis sofa is a special type of seating that is usually found in traditional Arab gathering spaces. Unlike regular sofas, Majlis sofas are low to the floor and often have no legs. They are designed to sit directly on the floor, allowing people to sit comfortably in a relaxed, informal position.
These sofas are usually long and wide and provide enough space for several people to sit together. They are often decorated with decorative cushions and covers in vivid colors and intricate patterns that add to their visual appeal.
The design of Arabic Majlis sofas reflects the cultural values of hospitality and community in Arab societies. By offering comfortable seating close to the floor, Majlis sofas create a welcoming space where people can gather to socialize, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company.
Majlis sofas are used in homes, mosques, or other common spaces and play an essential role in strengthening communication and creating a sense of belonging among individuals and groups.
What Countries Have Arab Majlis?
Arab Majlis or similar gathering spaces are commonly found in many Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and others. These spaces act as a central hub for socializing, conversation, and hospitality.
In the Majlis, people gather to share stories, exchange opinions, and enjoy each other’s company. They are an important part of Arab culture and reflect the values of hospitality, respect, and community.
Whether in homes, mosques, or other common areas, Majlis gatherings play an important role in strengthening communication and preserving traditions throughout the Arab world.
Final Word
Arab Majlis is not just a room. It is a tribute to the culture, tradition, and classic design. Its beauty and luxury have made it a popular choice in interior design worldwide.
Whether your goal is a formal gathering place or you simply want to add a taste of Middle Eastern charm to your home, having the essence of an Arab Majlis can transform your living spaces into charming and luxurious retreats. This authentic design and tradition has existed since ancient times, and we can also follow it for our parties.
Are you planning to travel to Qatar and looking for a Qatar travel agency? Please read things to do in Qatar article & Check out our Qatar tours, and Qatar transit tours.
