Palestinian groom saves up on costs with nine Emiratis, thanks to group wedding

Abu Dhabi - Ten couples tied the knot at the ceremony organised by the General Women's Union.

The group wedding of 10 couples - nine nationals and a non-Emirati - was marked with a simple ceremony at Mirfa in Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
The group wedding was special this time with the inclusion of the first-ever non-Emirati. The ceremonies, held separately in men's and women's halls, lasted from 4pm to 7pm.
The women's ceremony was a private event. The men's hall was decorated elegantly and had the presence of the family, friends and relatives of the brides and grooms. The grooms were welcomed by a 10-member band who sang festive songs that revved up the atmosphere. Once settled, relatives wished all the grooms as music and dance continued in the backdrop.
Ali Ghanim, a Dubai-based Emirati groom, praised the decision of the leaders to let non-nationals be part of the ceremony. "This is the 'Year of Tolerance' and the wedding isn't just for nationals but a non-Emirati too. We are happy to celebrate our special day with those from other nationalities. We thank our Rulers for such an opportunity, sponsoring this and making it a happy occasion for us," he said.
Ghanim said the event had helped everyone to cut on expenses of big fat weddings which could range anywhere between Dh250,000 to Dh500,000 or even Dh1 million. "The cost of a wedding is very high. From booking a hall and hotel rooms, entertainment events, food arrangements to even dress add to a big sum. This group wedding helps to plan for future life, immediate being my honeymoon," Ghanim added.
"This is very helpful for everyone. This will also encourage others to follow," he said. Other grooms hailed the conduct of their special day in a modest way and said the money saved can be utilised for a better future. With new aspirations and confidence, by 8pm, the grooms joined their brides for next round of private ceremonies and start of new partnership of their lives.
I feel very much like an Emirati, says Palestinian groom
Hamad Mahmoud, a Palestinian groom, was the first non-Emirati to be part of a local mass wedding and he was elated. "I feel very much like an Emirati. I was born in Abu Dhabi and raised here. My family is here since late 1980s. I am used to such an atmosphere and tradition. I am very happy to be part of this event. Even though I am a Palestinian, I feel that am very much with my family here at this ceremony."
The event was organised by the General Women's Union. Mahmoud lauded the initiatives taken by the leaders to bring happiness to the lives of the newlyweds.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi