Save up to 80%: UAE couples cut costs with mass weddings, joint ceremonies

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.”

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.

Free ceremonies

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.

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