Conversation so far:
Are arranged marriages still common in the Arab world?
Arranged marriages still happen in the Arab world. The traditions of conservative Arab society and Islam forbid couples to have sex or socialize before marriage
How do the arrangements for an Arab marriage begin?
Forced marriages are against Islamic teachings. Therefore, when it is time for a young man to get married, his family will look around to identify a number of potential brides.
What happens at the initial meeting of the arranged couple prior to an Arab Wedding?
The first meeting usually takes place between the bride, groom, and their respective mothers. They meet, usually in a public place or in the bride's house, and get to know each other.
What happens at the second meeting?
How many meetings typically happen before the parties including the arranged couple come to an agreement prior to an Arab Wedding?
Nowadays, the man might suggest to his family who he would like them to consider, and it may be that the man and the woman already know each other.

Question: Are there matchmakers or people other than the bride, groom and their parents involved in the arranging?
Self-contained rewrite: Are there matchmakers or people other than the bride, groom and their parents involved in the arranging?