Groom dies after collapsing on wedding dance floor in Egypt
Groom Ashraf Abu Hakam dies of sudden cardiac arrest while dancing with his bride in Aswan; video of the Saidi dance circulated online

A wedding in Aswan Governorate, Egypt, ended in tragedy when the groom collapsed and died during a traditional Saidi dance with his bride. Ashraf Abu Hakam was seen celebrating with his wife and guests as they waved Saidi sticks, a solid pole used in the dance, before he suddenly fell to the floor. Medical officials told Gulf News the death was caused by a sudden cardiac arrest, and bystanders attempted to help as the music continued in the venue.
Emergency responders arrived, and doctors later confirmed the fatal cardiac event. The scene was described as chaotic as relatives and friends rushed to assist, and Hakam was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The incident quickly spread across Egyptian social media, with many expressing shock and offering condolences to the bride and family. Friends who knew Hakam described him as full of life and hopeful about his future, while others prayed for strength for the newly married couple during this difficult time.
The tragedy follows another wedding-related death reported in the region: Adna Rovčanin-Omerbegović, a Bosnian influencer and nurse, fell ill at her wedding reception on September 13, was rushed to a hospital, fell into a coma hours after tying the knot, and died two days later, Bosnian media reported at the time.
There were no immediate details released about any ongoing investigations or the bride’s condition. The pairings of celebratory moments with sudden medical emergencies underscore the unpredictability of health events during large gatherings, even as families and communities process the loss.