In Dubai and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a husband is most commonly referred to using the Arabic word “zawj”. This simply translates to “husband” or “spouse” in English. However, there are some other terms that may be used as well, depending on the context.
Common Terms for Husband in Arabic
Here are some of the most common Arabic words used to refer to a husband in Dubai and the UAE:
- Zawj – This is the most common and generic Arabic word for husband. It simply means spouse or partner.
- Rajul – Literally meaning “man”, this can be used to refer to one’s husband in a respectful manner.
- Sayyid – Meaning “master” or “sir”, this term denotes respect and status. It may be used by a wife to address her husband.
- Abu + child’s name – Calling a husband “father of (child’s name)” is a common practice. For example, if his son’s name is Omar, the wife may call him “Abu Omar”.
These terms can be used on their own or combined with other words to form respectful titles. For instance, “al-sayyid al-zawj” would mean “the master husband”.
Variations Based on Local Dialects
There are also some variations in how a husband is addressed depending on local Arabic dialects:
- In the Khaleeji or Gulf dialect, “ragil” is commonly used instead of “zawj” for husband.
- In Levantine Arabic spoken in Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, “zauj” is used instead of “zawj”.
- In Egyptian Arabic, “gawaz” is a common colloquial term for husband in place of “zawj”.
- Maghrebi Arabic dialects in North Africa use “radjel” or “rajel” more commonly than “zawj”.
So the exact word used for husband may vary slightly across the Middle East and Arab world. But “zawj” remains the most widespread formal Arabic term.
Terms of Endearment
In addition to the formal terms, Arabic-speaking couples also use endearing words for each other. Common romantic names a wife may use for her husband include:
- Habibi – Literally “my love” in Arabic.
- Hayati – Means “my life”, a loving term for a husband.
- Amory – Comes from the French “amour” and means “love of my life”.
- Malak – A cute nickname meaning “angel”.
Such nicknames or pet names are commonly used during intimate conversations but not in public or formal settings.
Usage in Social Contexts
The appropriate term to use for referring to a husband also depends on the social context in Dubai:
- In very formal or official documents, legal contexts, the formal “zawj” is used.
- In semi-formal conversations, “sayyid + name” may be used by the wife to politely refer to her husband.
- In casual social settings amongst close family or friends, nicknames like “Abu Omar” or endearments like “habibi” are common.
- In front of elders, in-laws, or non-family, respectful titles are expected to be used.
So a native Arabic speaking woman would choose the appropriate level of formality or intimacy based on who she is addressing and the context.
Husband’s Perspective
From the husband’s perspective, the common Arabic terms used are:
- Zawjati – Means “my wife”, the equivalent of “my husband” from the wife’s side.
- Mar’ati – Literally “my woman”, also means my wife.
- Amat + child’s name – “Mother of (child)” is used similarly to “father of” from the wife’s side.
The same rules of formality apply from the husband’s perspective based on context. He may also use romantic nicknames like “hayati” or “amory” for his wife.
Changing Social Norms
Traditionally, more conservative terms were used for husband and wife in the Arab culture. But modern couples in Dubai today are adopting more contemporary, egalitarian terms borrowed from English:
- Battikha – “Partner” in Arabic, reflects equality between spouses.
- Zawjati – Simply means “my spouse” rather than “my wife”.
- Hubby – The English “hubby” is gaining popularity amongst younger couples.
As cultural attitudes become more progressive, the terminology for husband and wife is also shifting.
Children’s Terms for Parents
For children addressing their parents’ spousal relationship, the common Arabic terms used are:
- Mama and Baba – The informal “mum” and “dad”.
- Ummi and Abi – The more formal “mother” and “father”.
- Walidi and Walidati – Means “my parents”, refers to both together.
There are also colloquial child-like terms of endearment used regionally:
- In the Gulf: Yuma and Yaba
- In North Africa: Ma and Ba
Children typically use more formal terms “umm” and “ab” in public and informal “mama” or “baba” at home. Adolescents and adults would use the formal “walidi” when referring to their parents as a couple.
Implications of How “Husband” is Used
The choice of Arabic terms for husband also implies certain cultural values:
- Terms like “sayyid” elevate the husband and reflect patriarchal norms.
- “Abu + child’s name” signifies importance given to family bonds.
- Romantic terms like “habibi” indicate intimacy and affection in marriage.
- Progressive terms like “partner” are indicative of modern, egalitarian values.
So, even the choice of address reflects subtle gender roles, family values, and social change.
Conclusion
In summary, while “zawj” is the common Arabic word used for husband, the exact term used in Dubai varies depending on dialect, context, relationship, and cultural norms. Traditional titles denoting respect and hierarchy are giving way to more egalitarian, intimate, and light-hearted terms between married couples. The evolution of how husbands are addressed in Dubai parallels broader trends towards modernity while retaining familial values.
| Formal terms | Informal terms | Romantic nicknames | Modern terms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zawj | Sayyid + name | Habibi | Battikha |
| Rajul | Abu + child’s name | Hayati | Zawjati |
| Sayyid | Amory | Hubby |