Hosting an Arabian Nights Dinner Party: 17 Beautiful Decor and Setup Ideas

Hosting an Arabian Nights dinner party is all about creating an atmosphere that feels lush, inviting, and a little bit magical. It’s a chance to bring the warmth and vibrance of Middle Eastern culture into your home, with a mix of rich colours, layered textiles, and intricate decor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a creative way to gather friends and family, this kind of themed dinner can turn a regular evening into a memorable experience.

Setting the Scene: Creating an Enchanting First Impression

To get started, focus on creating a welcoming entrance that sets the tone for the night. Imagine your guests arriving to the gentle glow of lanterns, the soft rustle of fabric, and the heady scent of spices.

I still remember the first time I was invited to an Omani friend’s home for dinner. As soon as I walked in, I was handed a tiny cup of cardamom-spiced coffee, and the smell of frankincense drifted through the air. We sat on floor cushions around a low table, sharing stories and passing plates of dates and nuts.

That feeling of stepping into a warm and inviting world is exactly what you want to recreate for your guests.

1. Choose a Colour Palette That Sets the Mood

Start by choosing a rich colour palette. Think deep purples, warm golds, intense indigos, and lush reds. These colours capture the luxurious feel of Arabian nights and provide the perfect backdrop for layered textiles, brass accents, and warm lighting. Add hints of turquoise or peacock green if you want to capture the cooler tones of the Gulf countries.

2. Layer Up the Textiles

The key to a cozy, immersive space is layers. Use a mix of Persian rugs, embroidered cushions, and plush floor poufs to create a comfortable lounge area.

I once visited a Bedouin-style camp in the Wahiba Sands in Oman, where the seating areas were made up entirely of thick carpets and vibrant cushions – it felt like sinking into a luxurious cocoon. This is the kind of comfort you want to recreate for your guests.

3. Create a Cozy Lounge Area

Set up a cozy lounge corner with floor seating, low tables, and oversized cushions. If you have a garden or balcony, try setting this area outdoors under a string of warm fairy lights or even a traditional Bedouin-style tent. It’s the perfect spot for guests to gather, sip tea, and chat as the evening unfolds.

4. Add Lanterns for a Magical Glow

Lighting is essential for setting the right mood. Use brass lanterns, candle holders, and string lights to create a warm atmosphere. I have a small brass lantern I bought in Mutrah Souq, and I light it when guests come for dinner. I love its soft lighting.

5. Use Brass and Gold Accents

Incorporate brass and gold accents through trays, candle holders, and decorative bowls. These metallic touches reflect light beautifully and add a sense of luxury to the space. In many Omani homes, these pieces are not just for decoration – they are also practical, used for serving coffee, nuts, and dates to guests.

6. Create a Low Table for a Traditional Touch

For an authentic touch, set up a low dining table surrounded by floor cushions. Cover it with a richly patterned tablecloth or runner, and add beautiful plates, glasses, and small serving bowls for a sense of Arabic elegance. Last Eid, some of my colleagues and I were invited to have Iftar together. The setting was elegant and the host even included a small gift for each person who was invited.

7. Bring in Natural Elements

Include natural elements like small potted plants to add texture and a touch of the desert. These earthy touches help balance the rich colours and metallic accents, creating a space that feels both grounded and luxurious. If you have access to fresh palm fronds, consider using them as wall accents for an original decorative touch.

8. Use Scent to Set the Mood

Don’t forget the power of scent. Use incense, oud, or frankincense to fill the air with warm notes. If you prefer something lighter, try a few well-placed candles with scents like amber, sandalwood, or rose. In Oman, freshly burned frankincense is part of daily-life but if you don’t have an incense burner, try making your own using one from my blogpost ‘9 beautifully simple Frankincense Burner Ideas.’ You can then start by adding just a small piece – the scent is powerful and can quickly fill a room.

9. Set Up a Traditional Coffee and Tea Station

Set up a small drink station with traditional Middle Eastern beverages like Arabic coffee, saffron tea, or pomegranate juice. If you really want to impress your guests, consider adding a traditional dallah (Arabic coffee pot) and small glass cups. I’ve often seen these setups at Omani family gatherings, where guests are greeted with tiny cups of steaming, cardamom-infused coffee as a sign of welcome and respect.

10. Use Hand-Painted Ceramics

Serve your dishes on hand-made ceramics for an authentic touch. Look for patterns inspired by Middle Eastern tile designs or opt for simple clay dishes. In Bahla in the interior area of Oman, for example, you can still find potters crafting beautiful pieces that have been made in the same way for generations. These pieces add a layer of history and craftsmanship to your table, making the meal feel even more special.

11. Add a Touch of the Bazaar

Add colourful glass bottles and handmade trinkets. It’s a great way to add visual interest and give guests something to explore as they mingle. I once attended a gathering where the host had set up a small corner with bowls of dried rose petals, cardamom pods, and beautiful bottles of perfume – it added a bit of fun and, as part of party favours, guests could take them home.

12. Play Middle Eastern Music

Set the mood with a playlist of traditional Middle Eastern music or instrumental pieces that capture the spirit of the area. Oud, qanun, and darbuka drum rhythms can instantly transport your guests to a far-off place. If you’re looking for something a bit more modern, try some Arabic jazz or contemporary fusion – it’s a great way to mix traditional vibes with a modern twist.

13. Add a Few Beautiful Books on the Middle East

Create a small tabletop display with a few beautifully illustrated books on Middle Eastern art, culture, and travel. They are sure to provide a great conversation starter for guests. You could include titles on Omani architecture, Bedouin culture, or traditional Arabic calligraphy. If you have a favourite book, like a guide to Arabian spices, this is the perfect time to share it. It’s a subtle way to add depth to your decor and invite your guests to explore the rich culture behind the evening’s theme.

14. End with a Sweet Note

Offer your guests a selection of Middle Eastern sweets like baklava, ma’amoul, or halwa. Serve them on a brass tray for an elegant, authentic touch. In Oman, festive meals end with something sweet, often paired with a final round of Arabic coffee. If you want to add a personal touch, try making a simple batch of date-stuffed pastries – they’re always a hit.

15. Personalize with Unique Touches

Add a few personal touches like small name cards, personalized napkin rings, or even small party favours that guests can take home. You could have hand-painted small ceramic tiles with each guest’s name – it will add a thoughtful, personalized touch that will make everyone feel special.

16. Use Moroccan-Style Glassware

Serve drinks in colourful Moroccan tea glasses to add a final pop of colour and detail to your table setting. These glasses not only look beautiful but also add a touch of authenticity to your party, capturing the vibrant spirit of Middle Eastern gatherings.

17. Create a Date and Nut Platter

Offer a beautiful platter of dates, nuts, and dried fruits as a simple, authentic touch. In the Gulf, dates are considered a symbol of hospitality, often served with Arabic coffee at the beginning of a meal. Arrange a variety of dates (like the soft, caramel-like Khalas dates or the rich, dark Fard dates) alongside roasted almonds and pistachios.

With these 17 beautiful decor and setup ideas, you can transform your home into a cozy escape that your guests will remember long after the night ends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a themed evening, your Arabian Nights dinner party will be a hit with friends and family.