Celebrating Tradition and Community: The Al Derei Tribe Hosts Mass Wedding Under the Medeem Initiative
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) – In a heartwarming display of cultural heritage and community spirit, the Al Derei tribe recently celebrated a momentous occasion by hosting a group wedding for 22 couples from the United Arab Emirates. This event, which adheres to the principles of the Medeem Model for Women’s Weddings, significantly contributes to the ongoing Medeem initiative spearheaded by the Department of Community Development (DCD).
The Medeem initiative is designed to help young Emiratis embark on their marital journey by fostering social cohesion, highlighting the importance of family values, and securing a stable foundation for married life. This initiative is not just a celebration but embodies a larger vision articulated by the UAE leadership, reflecting their commitment to nurturing a harmonious society, built on the strong values of Emirati tradition.
The grand event took place at the Al Quaa Wedding Hall in Al Ain, which was transformed into a vibrant space of love, joy, and cultural expression. Families gathered to witness the unions of their children, with the ceremonies structured to encompass traditional practices that resonate with the rich heritage of the UAE. A men’s wedding ceremony preceded the women’s celebration, adhering to the cultural norms that have defined Emirati weddings for generations.
Dr. Mona Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Medeem Initiative at the DCD, expressed her sincere congratulations to the Al Derei tribe for their active participation in this landmark occasion. “We applaud the Al Derei tribe for their fortitude in embodying the principles of the Medeem Model, which promote strong and meaningful marriages,” she stated. Dr. Al Mansoori underscored the significance of the three-hour women’s ceremony, highlighting that the refreshments served consisted of traditional Emirati snacks and beverages, further enriching the cultural experience.
The Medeem initiative has played a pivotal role in not only organizing mass weddings but also in educating young Emiratis about the necessary preparations for married life. Emphasizing the belief that families are the cornerstone of a healthy and prosperous society, Dr. Al Mansoori reaffirmed the initiative’s commitment to equipping couples with the tools they need for future harmony.
A pivotal figure in the organization of the group wedding, Dr. Hilal Saeed Al Derei, expressed his gratitude towards the DCD for their unwavering support. He asserted, “We commend the Department of Community Development for fostering an initiative encouraging Emiratis to view marriage as a critical step towards establishing joyful and stable families.” Dr. Al Derei urged residents of Abu Dhabi to actively engage with the benefits and services provided by the Medeem initiative, stressing the need to support the leadership’s vision of facilitating marriages among the youth.
Notably, Dr. Al Derei highlighted that the numerous mass weddings held in the Al Quaa area have collectively saved approximately Dh314 million. Of this figure, more than Dh117 million was directly saved by the newlyweds, with an additional Dh196 million saved by the community through reduced preparation costs associated with women’s weddings. The economic benefits of such initiatives cannot be overstated, as they not only alleviate financial burdens on young couples but also foster a sense of collective responsibility and solidarity within the community.
Moreover, participants in the wedding celebration benefited from the Medeem Center for Family Nurturing’s Premarital Programme—a specialized course tailored to equip couples with essential skills and insights for forging and sustaining harmonious relationships. This programme seeks to ensure that marriages are not solely celebrated but thrive, encapsulating the holistic approach of the Medeem initiative towards family life.
As the sun set on the celebrations at Al Quaa Wedding Hall, it became increasingly apparent that these group weddings are more than just ceremonies; they are transformations. They have evolved into significant social events that ignite the spirit of community, echoing the values of unity and cooperation that lie at the heart of Emirati culture. The steadfast support from the nation’s leadership for such endeavors ensures that traditions endure and are enriched for future generations, creating a persistent legacy that honors both the past and the future of the UAE.
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