Sharjah24: Abdullah Sultan bin Khadem, the Executive Director of Sharjah Charity International, highlighted that the mass wedding initiative is a wonderful tradition that was launched by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This initiative began in 1990 with the organization of the first mass wedding in the entire Middle East, marking the start of a project that has since expanded across the region. The initiative reflects the core values of the UAE society, promoting social solidarity among various segments while showcasing the Ruler of Sharjah's commitment and caring approach towards his fellow citizens.
He noted that the association continues to carry out the mass wedding project successfully, thanks to the support of generous benefactors. This effort has played a pivotal role in establishing many families of citizens not eligible for marriage fund assistance, as well as residents who have contributed significantly to the country. Furthermore, the association has broadened its scope, reaching out beyond the UAE in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and state embassies in beneficiary countries, helping hundreds of young individuals establish stable family lives abroad. This charitable initiative has been crucial in ensuring family stability for young couples facing financial hurdles that prevent them from celebrating their marriages. It has also eased the financial burden of loans and debt for many, as the association covers wedding costs by organizing mass celebrations and providing each groom with financial support, allowing them to embark on a joyful married life without the stresses of debt.
Bin Khadem elaborated that the project has seen remarkable success, with the association having conducted over 37 mass weddings in recent years—9 of which took place within the country and 28 in various other nations. He shared that preparations are underway for the tenth mass wedding event inside the UAE, coinciding with the celebration of the 53rd National Day. This upcoming event is expected to host 200 grooms with limited income, adhering to the approved eligibility criteria, which include that participants must not be beneficiaries of the marriage fund, should not have been married before, and must provide proof of monthly income through a bank statement and salary letter. This initiative targets those who genuinely cannot afford the costs and requirements of marriage. Additionally, the association is organizing awareness courses for grooms, with gratitude towards the benefactors whose support ensures the continuity of this meaningful work, as long as charitable individuals are willing to lend a helping hand.
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