Arabic mehndi refers to temporary body art painted on the hands or feet with henna paste. The paste is a dye that soaks into the skin and remains for several days. Intricate designs are traditionally painted on Indian and Arabic brides. A dark color is considered good luck for the couple’s future.

The main differences between Arabic mehndi and other types are the designs. Arabic mehndi uses trailing, bold flower designs with open spaces on only one side of the hands and feet. Mehndi paste can be applied with a henna cone or a squeezable plastic bottle with a narrow tip on the cap.