Former sanctions case figure Zarrab weds in Miami spectacle

Reza Zarrab, the Iranian-Turkish businessman known for his involvement in a high-profile sanctions case, married former Turkish national swimmer Dilara Altintop in an extravagant three-day celebration at several of Miami’s most prestigious venues.

The wedding, which concluded with a ceremony at the historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on Jan. 16, brought together approximately 150 guests, including prominent Turkish entertainment figures Ibrahim Tatlises and Derya Tuna.

Security was notably strict at the events, with guests required to surrender their phones to prevent any unauthorized documentation of the celebrations. The couple, who reportedly formalized their marriage two months ago, hosted their guests at multiple venues, including the Faena Hotel and Venetian Marina Yacht Club.

Altintop, who now works as an executive assistant in Miami, brings a diverse background to the union.

A former professional swimmer for Türkiye’s National Swimming Team and Fenerbahce Sports Club, she holds a legal assistant certification from Boston University.

The wedding’s carefully orchestrated details included a dress code requiring formal attire—tuxedos for men and evening gowns for women.

The reception venue was decorated in dramatic red tones, from wall drapings to floral arrangements and table settings. Entertainment featured flamenco and modern dance performances.

Zarrab, 40, previously made headlines in both Türkiye and the United States. Born in Tabriz to an Iranian Azerbaijani family, he established himself in Türkiye’s financial sector before facing legal challenges.

In 2016, he was arrested in Miami on charges including bank fraud, money laundering, and violations of U.S. sanctions on Iran.

His previous marriage to Turkish pop star Ebru Gundes ended in 2021 after 11 years. That relationship, which produced a daughter named Alara, coincided with Zarrab’s rise in Türkiye’s financial sector through his company Royal Holding, established in 2010.

The wedding festivities included a sunset party on the Atlantic Ocean and concluded with a fireworks display viewed from the Venetian Marina Yacht Club. The bride wore two custom designs by Elio Abou Fayssal, including a one-shoulder wedding gown with a thigh-high slit.

The carefully curated menu featured local Florida ingredients, including citrus-accented dishes and fresh seafood, concluding with a dark chocolate tart for dessert.