Valentine’s Day Weddings Surge in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi witnessed a romantic surge on Valentine’s Day as dozens of couples tied the knot, highlighting the growing appeal of civil weddings in the UAE. Since the establishment of the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court in late 2021, over 36,000 marriages have been registered, with an average of 70 weddings taking place daily—approximately 12 per hour. Last year, Valentine’s Day set a record with 143 civil marriages, and this year’s celebrations continued the trend.
Among the couples who chose Valentine’s Day for their special moment was 30-year-old Indian nurse Diksha Dilip Sahare, who married her fiancé, Hitesh Ashok Patil. “Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of getting married on Valentine’s Day. It’s the most romantic day, and when I decided to get married, it was one of my conditions,” Diksha shared. Her story reflects the sentiments of many who view February 14 as the perfect day to celebrate love and commitment.
Wedding expert Florian Ughetto noted a significant increase in the number of couples opting for Valentine’s Day weddings. “We’ve observed a remarkable rise in interest for weddings on this symbolic day,” he said. The trend underscores the day’s universal appeal as a celebration of love, transcending cultural and national boundaries.
Yousef Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Justice, emphasized that the growing popularity of civil weddings in Abu Dhabi reflects the emirate’s status as an attractive destination for couples from around the world. The Civil Family Court was established to provide a non-Muslim approach to marriage, aligning with international legal standards and catering to the diverse population of the UAE.
The court’s inclusive approach has also drawn international attention. Last year, Lebanese actress Sara Abi Kanaan and actor Wissam Fares chose Abu Dhabi for their wedding, further cementing the emirate’s reputation as a sought-after location for civil ceremonies.
Alongside the increase in civil weddings, there has been a notable rise in demand for prenuptial agreements. Lawyer Shabana Salim reported a 30% increase in inquiries about civil marriage contracts over the past two weeks. “Marriage agreements are now seen as a way to protect the emotional and financial well-being of both partners,” she explained. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the importance of legal safeguards in modern relationships.
The surge in Valentine’s Day weddings in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the emirate’s evolving cultural landscape. By offering a streamlined and inclusive process for civil marriages, the UAE has positioned itself as a hub for couples seeking a blend of romance, convenience, and legal security.
As more couples choose Abu Dhabi for their special day, the city continues to embrace its role as a global destination for love and commitment.
Source: The National
