Mahmood&Raya

Mahmood and Raya's story may have started long before either of them knew it. When Mahmood was born, Raya's teta visited his parents at the hospital and held him in her arms as a baby. Shortly after, his family moved to Saudi Arabia, and their lives went in different directions. They like to joke that perhaps Raya's teta whispered in his ear that day that one day he would marry her 12th grandchild.

Years later, their paths crossed through mutual friends. What began as a simple introduction quickly turned into something special.

Since then, their story has taken them across cities and countries. Together, they have shared memories in Dubai, Amman, Montréal, and Chicago, with each place becoming a cherished chapter in their journey.

The funniest part? Neither of them realized how connected their worlds were until Mahmood asked Raya where exactly her family was from in Palestine. When she replied, “Lifta,” they were both surprised to discover that their families shared roots in the very same village. In that moment, the world suddenly felt a lot smaller, and many of the connections between their families began to make sense.

Looking back, it's hard not to believe that their story was written long before they met. From a baby being held by Raya's grandmother to finding each other years later across continents, they truly believe that some people are meant to find their way back to one another.

And if you ask Mahmood, he knew from the very beginning. After their first date, he jokingly told Raya that she didn't have a choice. As it turns out, he may have been onto something.

Now, surrounded by the love of their family and friends, Mahmood and Raya are ready to begin their greatest adventure together 💕