Large and luxurious weddings have always been a part of the norm here in the UAE, but can we expect smaller ceremonies on a budget to take centre stage going forward?
According to an announcement made by the Dubai Wedding Programme, UAE citizens can now expect incentives to help reduce wedding costs, wedding planning services and venues for parties in modern-looking halls across Dubai. The initiative also seeks to provide family counselling, marriage planning, financial advice as well as family management for all newlyweds.
Dubai’s Community Development Authority noted that the initiative was launched as a means to reduce financial burdens on citizens which in turn would provide them with stability and a higher quality of life. The director general of CDA, Hessa Buhumaida stated that the ultimate goal was to assist Emirati youth financially and socially. She aspires to shift stereotypes that identify with exaggerated wedding ceremonies and help young Emirati men and women tie the knot at an early age. She also noted that those who were enrolled on the programme shall receive educational courses on how to plan their life and finances.
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The initiative is an integral element of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, a comprehensive plan valued at Dh208 billion ($56.6 billion) recently announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President, and Ruler of Dubai. “Family is the cornerstone of the nation and the foundation of all development plans…,” he stated. “Our ultimate objective is to enhance the quality of citizens’ lives for a brighter future.”
Many young Emiratis also seem to be on board with the new initiative. In an interview with The National, a citizen hailing from Dubai commented, “This is a great initiative for us young Emiratis, as we see a lot of young men postpone getting married fearing debts and pressure, so this is the perfect solution to increase and help the newlyweds in Dubai.”
There is a widespread belief that many young men accumulate debt when taking loans to fund extravagant expenses. With the Dubai Wedding Programme, many citizens are hopeful about the significant aid being provided, along with the valuable financial advice in the process. Additionally, the Wedding Programme covers all wedding expenses for women during the ceremony, including the costs associated with hosting 250 guests. This is inclusive of high-quality food, decorations, hospitality, and other services.
Young Emiratis can choose from a varying range of modern halls to choose from Al Barsha Hall, Al Lisaili Hall, Hatta Hall and shortly, the Al Twar Hall.
In order to qualify for this initiative, grooms are required to be over 21 years old and must own a Dubai-issued passport, whereas women are required to be UAE citizens.
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