In a bid to foster family unity and social stability, Dubai has introduced the ‘Dubai Weddings’ program, an initiative aimed at supporting young Emiratis in their journey towards marriage. Announced on January 15 by the Community Development Authority, the program seeks to alleviate the financial burdens associated with weddings, offering comprehensive incentives for couples preparing to tie the knot.
Under the visionary guidance of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the ‘Dubai Weddings‘ program is a proactive step towards resolving challenges faced by couples in the pre-marital phase. By providing solutions, initiatives, and support, the initiative aims to not only ease the concerns of couples but also promote the establishment of strong and stable families within the emirate.
One of the key aspects of the program is its emphasis on reducing the costs associated with marriage. ‘Dubai Weddings’ provides planning services and facilitates wedding parties in modern, fully equipped halls situated in various areas of Dubai, including Al Barsha, Al Lisaili, Hatta, and soon, Al Twar Hall. By offering these resources, the program aims to shift the focus away from non-essential aspects of wedding celebrations that can often pose a considerable burden on young individuals, potentially leading to delayed marriages.
Dubai Weddings Programs for Couples
Couples preparing to embark on the journey of marriage through the ‘Dubai Weddings’ program will also benefit from an extensive awareness program. This includes family counseling sessions covering essential topics such as marriage planning, family management, and financial affairs. Such initiatives are designed not only to provide immediate support but also to impart valuable knowledge that contributes to the long-term stability of families.
Hessa bint Issa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, expressed her hopes that the program would mark the beginning of a new era of societal awareness. She stressed the importance of building happy and stable families within supportive financial and social conditions. Buhumaid highlighted the immediate goal of providing financial and social support to young people, encouraging them to embrace marriage. Simultaneously, she aspired for the program to redefine the narrative around wedding celebrations, steering away from exaggerated and non-essential aspects.
The ‘Dubai Weddings’ program aligns seamlessly with Sheikh Mohammed’s broader vision, as reflected in the recently launched Dh208 billion Dubai Social Agenda program. One of the primary objectives of this agenda is to double the number of Emirati families in the emirate within a decade. The Dubai Social Agenda 33, launched on January 14, includes a series of projects for the year 2024, emphasizing the overarching theme of ‘Family: The Foundation of Our Nation.’
As part of the approved projects, 3,500 plots of land will be allocated to citizens in Dubai, along with 2,300 ready-to-move-in houses valued at Dh5.5 billion. Sheikh Mohammed’s commitment to providing necessary support to citizens for the welfare and well-being of their families is evident in these initiatives. Notably, he directed the naming of the new area designated for the housing project for citizens as ‘Latifa City.’
In conclusion, the ‘Dubai Weddings’ program emerges as a thoughtful and comprehensive initiative, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by young couples. By providing tangible support, fostering awareness, and encouraging a shift in societal perceptions of wedding celebrations, Dubai aims to not only strengthen family ties but also contribute to the broader vision of building a robust and prosperous society. Through programs like these, the emirate stands as a beacon of progressive thinking, setting a positive example for the region and beyond.