While mass weddings are deeply rooted in Emirati culture, expats in the Emirates are also embracing it as a way to manage expenses
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: File
Many UAE couples turn to mass weddings and joint ceremonies to reduce financial burdens while celebrating their love. This trend brings together multiple couples for a celebration, offering significant economic benefits. Industry experts estimate that combining weddings into one larger event can save nearly 70 to 80% of the overall budget.
While mass weddings are deeply rooted in Emirati culture and receive support from governmental initiatives, expats also embraced it as a way to manage expenses.
“Hosting mass weddings can be significantly economical. You can save on costs for wedding halls, hotel rooms, decorations, entertainment, and technical aspects such as sound, lighting, photography, videography, and more,” said Gauri Chadha, creative director of Big Night Events (BNE).
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According to Chadha, there has been an increase in mass weddings among young couples. "Although the exact percentage varies, couples could save almost 70 to 80 per cent of their budget by combining weddings into one larger event," she explained.
However, Chadha understands that managing multiple couples at a single event requires careful organisation to ensure each couple receives their due attention. “Every bride and groom is unique, and it's essential to remember the emotional significance of the day,” the planner said.
“In an Indian wedding, which often features several events, we might schedule ceremonies at different times or have simultaneous activities to accommodate everyone’s needs.”
Gauri Chadha (left). Photo: Supplied
Different governmental entities have supported mass weddings. Maha B, an Emirati resident who recently attended one, shared her experience. "There were four brides in total. Each bride had a one-hour time slot to enter, take photos, greet guests, and celebrate with her husband. This way, everyone gets their moment in the spotlight," she explained.
Maha also highlighted the financial advantages. "The hall rental was only Dh500, but decorations and the banquet could cost up to Dh100,000. By sharing these expenses, they only had to contribute Dh25,000."
Although every bride may have a different preference, Maha noted that they could all agree on neutral options that are beautiful and acceptable for everyone.
“The food is basic, which is typical in every wedding, so they can’t disagree on that. The decoration could be very simple with neutral colours that they all agree on,” she noted.
The Dubai Women's Association is playing a crucial role in promoting mass weddings to alleviate financial pressure on local young couples. Afra Al Hai, Director of the Consulting and Training Department, explained their initiative, Zaffat Harayer. "When the UAE completed its 50th year, we celebrated 50 weddings. This year, we will continue this tradition with several mass weddings."
On Tuesday, the Dubai Women’s Association celebrated the 26th edition of the “Zaffat Harayer” mass wedding at Sheikh Rashid Hall at the Trade Centre. The event saw the wedding of 14 brides and grooms, where the association covered all costs, including venue rentals, attire for every groom and bride, invitations, catering, and folk traditional dances.
For the first time, upcoming wedding ceremonies will be held in the afternoon. This change aligns with directives from the UAE's leadership to reduce dowry costs and overall marriage expenses by limiting ceremonies to under four hours.
The trend is not limited to Emiratis. Indian brothers Aarush and Arjun decided to share their wedding celebration, cutting costs effectively. "My wedding was supposed to take place first, but I proposed waiting a year so we could combine our ceremonies," Aarush said.
Initially, his wife was hesitant, but after doing the math, they realised it was the logical choice. "We saved Dh50,000 each," he added, emphasising how well-organised the event turned out to be.
Razan Mustafa. Photo: Supplied
Similarly, Sudanese friends Alia Mahmoud and Razan Mustafa are planning a joint wedding with their partners. "Not only will it save us nearly Dh20,000 each, but it will also be a shared joy," they shared.
They have booked the catering service and are in the process of hiring a musician, acknowledging that entertainment often represents the most significant expense in weddings. However, for other Sudanese traditional ceremonies, Alia and Razan plan to host separate events to ensure they receive full attention from their guests.
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Waad Barakat is a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts. With a keen eye for human interest stories, she hopes to blend it all with unique Gen Z-inspired content.
waad@khaleejtimes.comSara AlKuwari is an Emirati reporter who may look shy and quiet but is determined and has a strong desire to highlight Emirati culture in an impactful way. She is also a tea lover and an avid reader.
sara@khaleejtimes.com