Wedding traditions of Abu Dhabi
The Emirati capital, which first opened civil marriage to non-Muslims and which holds group weddings for Emirati couples.
Abu Dhabi runs a marriage fund that funds mass weddings for Emirati couples, where dozens of couples marry at once in a hall. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a landmark where couples photograph. In 2021 the emirate introduced a civil family court so non-Muslims can marry without a religious ceremony.
A wedding here
In a group wedding couples sit in rows, speeches are given, and the men dance the Ayyala. The henna night is held privately in each home. The wedding meal includes lamb, rice dishes and sweets such as luqaimat.
Law and change
Civil marriage for non-Muslims, with a simple registration, began in 2021. Marriage between a Muslim woman and a non-Muslim man is not recognised under the family law; other rules have been revised and should be checked.
Wedding customs of Abu Dhabi
Also part of it, and being written: Mass wedding (The group wedding.), Al-Ayyala (The dance.), Mahr (The gift.).
A wedding trail idea for Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque A white marble mosque visited by couples.
- Qasr Al Hosn The oldest stone building.
- Emirates Palace A hotel used for large celebrations.
Written by the EveryShaadi desk with AI assistance. Opening hours, venues and wedding-season dates change; check locally before travelling. Customs differ from place to place and family to family. If this is your tradition and we have it wrong, tell us.
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