Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Getting married may be a major life milestone, but for young Emiratis in Abu Dhabi, the journey has become far less daunting and much more meaningful, thanks to the Medeem initiative of the Department of Community Development (DCD Abu Dhabi).
Launched in 2024, the initiative guides UAE nationals in planning simple, affordable weddings and preparing for married life. At the same time, it promotes long-held Emirati values and preserves traditional wedding customs.
Saif Al Marri, one of the beneficiaries, said Medeem allowed him and his wife to have a smooth start to married life. "Partnerships with service providers, housing aid, and financial support helped ease the pressure that many young people face," he told Aletihad.
Al Marri added that having access to all these served as a powerful motivation to confidently move toward marriage.
Beyond raising awareness, Medeem guides couples through a dedicated centre offering psychotherapy, premarital counselling, and family services. These are tailored to different stages of life, from those preparing for marriage to newlyweds and families, ensuring continuity of care.
The programme also partners with various organisations to provide discounts on essential wedding services, housing assistance, as well as financial support.
Recent data shows that Medeem - together with the Emirati Family Growth Programme, Numou - has contributed to a 16% increase in marriage contracts across Abu Dhabi within one year of its launch. Wedding costs were also slashed by as much as 41%, compared to traditional weddings.
For Zayed Al Breiki, another young Emirati, it was the counselling sessions that mattered the most. "It gave me a better understanding of my responsibilities as a spouse," he said.
The programme also helped him and his wife set realistic expectations for marriage and strengthen their commitment, Al Breiki said. "This awareness is essential in preventing future difficulties."
The premarital programme of the Medeem Centre for Family Nurturing has served over 2,200 Emirati men and women in one year, according to a report published in January. The programme equips participants with essential skills for stable family life, including social, psychological readiness, health education and parenting skills.
UAE national Abdullah Saeed emphasised the initiative's wider societal benefits. For him, Medeem is not just a support programme but also an investment in the future of Emirati families.
He believes the programme strengthens ties and foundations of families, while encouraging a more intentional lifestyle.
