As the UAE prepares to mark its 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations in December 2025, Sharjah Charity International has officially begun accepting applications for its 11th annual mass wedding. Rooted in a long-standing Emirati tradition that promotes social unity and financial support for young couples, the initiative continues to grow in scale and significance, with expanded eligibility and digital access.
A Longstanding social tradition Anchored in Emirati values
The concept of mass weddings in the UAE dates back to 1998, with the very first event held in Sharjah under the patronage of the Emirate’s Ruler. Since then, mass weddings have evolved into a prominent social model that reflects the Emirati community’s deeply held values, chiefly solidarity, unity, and the importance of family stability. Over the years, the Ministry of Community Development has led these initiatives to strengthen the social fabric by supporting young men and women, encouraging early marriage, and reducing the financial burden on new couples. The aim is not only to preserve cultural traditions but to ensure long-term family cohesion and happiness. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the UAE adapted this tradition to the times by organising the first virtual mass wedding under the banner “Emirati Joy.” The event was conducted across five locations with 20 grooms in each ceremony, complying with safety protocols and demonstrating the nation’s commitment to upholding its traditions even in challenging times.
Sharjah’s 11th mass wedding set for december 2025
Sharjah Charity International has announced that it is now accepting applications for its 11th mass wedding, to be held in December 2025. The event will coincide with the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations and will take place under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Community Development, targets UAE nationals and select residents with strong ties to the country, offering them a chance to begin their marital life without the heavy costs typically associated with weddings. The overarching goal is to build sustainable, stable families rooted in Emirati traditions. Applications for participation are now being accepted exclusively through the charity’s official website—a move toward digital modernisation of its services. A dedicated committee will review submissions after the registration period closes to evaluate eligibility and select the participants.
Who can apply: Eligibility criteria
To qualify for the mass wedding, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Must be UAE citizens, children of female UAE citizens, or individuals born in the UAE whose fathers have rendered significant services to the country.
- Must be unmarried at the time of application, that is, first-time grooms who have not been married before.
- Must demonstrate financial need, specifically, the inability to afford the costs of marriage.
- Exceptions may apply for those supporting their families due to a father’s death or disability.
Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mohammed Rashid bin Bayat, highlighted the purpose of this initiative: to offer genuine support to couples who wish to marry but are held back by financial constraints. He encouraged young men and women to take advantage of this program, emphasizing its role in building strong, lasting families grounded in mutual support and cultural identity.
Milestones in the UAE’s mass wedding history
While Sharjah has played a key role in sustaining the tradition, other Emirates have also contributed to its evolution:
- Expo 2020 Dubai witnessed its first-ever traditional mass wedding in March 2022, sponsored by the Ministry of Interior and the Fazaa Social Security Fund. Held near the UAE Pavilion at Gayath Trail, the event hosted 100 grooms, with gifts provided to help them start their married lives.
- In June 2019, Abu Dhabi hosted the first mass wedding for non-Emirati couples, a historic first. The event included separate ceremonies for grooms and brides, reflecting both inclusivity and respect for traditional customs.
- In October 2020, facing pandemic-related restrictions, the UAE conducted a virtual mass wedding with 100 Emirati grooms, ensuring continuity of tradition under extraordinary circumstances.
Each of these events reflects the UAE’s commitment to evolving its cultural practices while staying true to its core values, community support, family stability, and responsible financial planning.
