Ashraf AboArafe
Cairo is preparing to host a unique cultural and charitable event, as the Turkish Embassy organizes a grand exhibition and artistic performance on Turkish wedding traditions and costumes at the historic Abdeen Palace on November 19, 2025. The event will be held under the patronage of Mrs. Naglaa Abdel-Salam Hanem, spouse of Egypt’s Foreign Minister, and Mrs. Ayşen Balçık Şen Hanım, spouse of the Turkish Ambassador to Cairo.
The exhibition, presented in cooperation with the Izmir Institute of Development under Turkey’s Ministry of National Education, will showcase a rich collection of traditional bridal gowns from various regions of Anatolia, modeled by professional performers, along with live displays of authentic Turkish wedding customs.
Turkish Ambassador to Cairo, Salih Mutlu Şen, announced via his official X account that all proceeds from ticket sales will be donated through the Egyptian Red Crescent to support the people of Gaza. He also highlighted the participation of Turkish investors in Egypt who are backing this humanitarian initiative.
The choice of Abdeen Palace, described by the ambassador as “Egypt’s Dolmabahçe,” carries symbolic weight. Built by Khedive Ismail, who spent the last decade of his life in Istanbul, the palace stands as a reminder of the deep-rooted historical connections between Egypt and Turkey.
A smaller version of this event was held last May at the Turkish Ambassador’s residence in Cairo under the theme “We Have a Wedding”, which received overwhelming interest from Egyptian attendees. Encouraged by this response, organizers decided to expand the event into a larger, more comprehensive showcase at Abdeen Palace.
This cultural charity gala, blending heritage, humanity, and history, is expected to strengthen the bridges of understanding between the Egyptian and Turkish peoples while shining a spotlight on solidarity with Gaza.
