The influence of Nowruz on flower gifting trends

Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is much more than a date on the calendar. It’s a spirited celebration of renewal, hope, and the arrival of spring. Marking the first day of the Persian calendar, Nowruz usually falls around March 20th or 21st and is deeply rooted in tradition, dating back over 3,000 years.

For millions across Iran, Central Asia, and the Middle East, including a vibrant community in the UAE, Nowruz is a time of reflection, family gatherings, and festive decor. One of the most heartwarming and symbolic elements of this celebration? Flowers.

During Nowruz, flowers aren’t just decorations. They symbolise rebirth, growth, and the beauty of life. Their presence around the Haft-Seen table, the traditional Nowruz spread, brings vibrant energy and colour to homes. More than ever, flowers have also become a meaningful gift, evolving into a powerful trend that continues to flourish.

Traditional Role of Flowers in Nowruz

Flowers have long held a sacred place in Nowruz celebrations. Each bloom is more than just a pretty face; it carries deep symbolism tied to the essence of the season.

The Haft-Seen table, a centrepiece of Nowruz decor, features seven symbolic items beginning with the Persian letter “S.” While flowers are not one of the official seven, they are almost always included to enhance beauty and spirit.

• Hyacinths (Sonbol): The most traditional Nowruz flower. Their sweet fragrance fills the air and represents the coming of spring and a fresh start. The burst of colour and perfume is considered to bring joy and positivity into the home.
• Tulips: Also grace many Nowruz celebrations. These bold, red blooms symbolise love, sacrifice, and the beauty of nature. A
• Roses: Represent purity and have long been revered in Persian poetry and culture.

These floral choices are deeply rooted in heritage, but they’ve also become the seeds of a modern gifting trend.

How Nowruz Has Shaped Flower Gifting Trends

With Nowruz signifying new beginnings, it’s no surprise that flower gifting has become a cherished gesture.

As the celebration falls at the peak of spring, there’s a natural surge in demand for fresh blooms. Families decorating their homes, friends exchanging gifts, and hosts welcoming guests all turn to flowers as a token of warmth and festive spirit.

In the UAE, where a significant community celebrates Nowruz, flower shops witness a noticeable spike in spring flower orders during this season. Elegant floral arrangements are often sent alongside sweets, fruits, or thoughtful messages of hope.

Over time, these gifting habits have influenced the local floral industry, encouraging florists to curate Nowruz-specific bouquets. Many UAE florists now offer dedicated Nowruz flower gifting collections, showcasing traditional favourites like hyacinths and tulips, often paired with themed accents like golden ribbons, traditional motifs, and vibrant greens.

Modern Nowruz Flower Gifting Trends

Tradition still thrives, but modern Nowruz celebrations have also added a fresh twist to flower gifting.

Personalised floral arrangements: 

A go-to choice. People are moving beyond generic bouquets, opting for custom colours, message tags, and arrangements inspired by Persian art. Incorporating cultural motifs, like miniature Haft-Seen symbols or Persian calligraphy, makes these gifts feel even more heartfelt.

Floral gift combos: 

There’s a rise in floral gift combos. Pairing blooms with traditional treats, like sweets, dry fruits, scented candles, or perfumes, creates a more holistic gift. This trend has made floral hampers a hit, especially for gifting to relatives or colleagues.

Sustainability: 

It’s stepping into the spotlight. Many people are now opting for eco-friendly flower gifting practices – think reusable planters, biodegradable wraps, or even potted flowering plants that last long after the celebration. In the UAE’s increasingly eco-conscious gifting scene, this trend is blooming fast.

The new wave of Nowruz floral arrangements isn’t just about beauty; it’s about blending culture, care, and creativity.

Global Impact of Nowruz on the Floral Market

While Nowruz is rooted in Persian culture, its global influence is unmistakable, and the flower market is reaping the benefits.

From the UAE to Europe and North America, florists are noticing increased demand for spring blooms around Nowruz 2025. Non-Persian communities, too, are embracing the celebration and the joy of gifting flowers during this time.

The biggest game-changer? E-commerce and online flower delivery services. With easy access to global gifting platforms, people across borders are now able to send festive floral gifts to loved ones celebrating Nowruz – even if they’re continents apart.

Nowruz flower delivery has become a thriving niche, especially in multicultural hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Online stores now offer curated Nowruz collections with same-day and next-day delivery, ensuring that festive cheer arrives right on time.

Digital platforms also allow for easier customisation and visual browsing, helping people pick the perfect blooms, even if they’re not familiar with traditional flowers of the season.

Final Words

From ancient rituals to modern trends, Nowruz has had a lasting impact on how we view and gift flowers.

What started as a symbolic decoration on the Haft-Seen table has now blossomed into a vibrant floral gifting tradition that reaches beyond borders. The celebration’s deep connection with nature, growth, and joy has made flowers the perfect gift for expressing love, hope, and positivity.

In the UAE and across the world, Nowruz 2025 is expected to continue this blooming trend. With every passing year, more people embrace the power of flowers to capture the essence of the season.

So whether it’s a bundle of hyacinths for the Haft-Seen, a cheerful bouquet for a friend, or a luxe floral hamper, these blooms are more than just beautiful. They carry the heart of the celebration itself.

Nowruz Mubarak! Celebrate with colour, kindness, and the timeless beauty of flowers.