The UAE leadership has always cherished values that form the bedrock of society, such as tolerance, unity and generosity among other virtues. It also respects the revered institution of marriage as a cornerstone of social progress. In this respect, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, made a very heart-warming gesture. He surprised dozens of newly married Emiratis who organised simple and low-cost wedding parties in their homes as a result of COVID-19 pandemic with special greeting cards signed by him.

There is no denying the fact that the coronavirus has upturned a lot of plans and priorities of the people. It has also affected their financial health. Given the current scenario, showy ceremonies have been kept on the backburner, as simplicity takes over the reins of lives. Wedding parties have witnessed a new culture and become simpler and affordable with costs that focus on minimalism and the happiness of families, relatives and friends. It is against this backdrop that Sheikh Mohammed’s congratulatory message to the sons and daughters of the nation is so timely. Simplicity deepens all values of marriage and is greater than the variables and circumstances, he remarked. He also stressed that the true value of marriage aims at building a coherent, interconnected UAE family which is filled with love and synergy.

The Federal Youth Authority, through its digital platforms, has surveyed the viewpoints of around 5,000 Emirati male and female youths on social media platforms about the future of marriage. Over 90 per cent of the participants expressed their support for simple celebrations, and the importance of focusing on values and principles that establish a successful marriage and build a coherent family.

An online marriage service has been launched in the UAE amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

The new service will allow couples to wed despite the restrictions of movement in order to stem the spread of COVID-19. The online marriage system was reportedly initiated in order to “maintain the health of the public and that of people working in courts and to limit the presence of employees”.

Earlier this year, more than 11,000 participants took part in a Family Exploratory Study, which aims to measure awareness regarding certain social issues, and study the factors that affect decision-making among households.

Initial results showed the participation of 64% of Abu Dhabi families, 26% from Al Ain, and 10% from the Al Dhafra region. Results also showed that 65% of participants were Emiratis, while 35% were non-Emiratis.

The main outcome of the project is the positive interaction of families in Abu Dhabi. Participants answered the questions of the study in a cultured manner that reflects their heightened sense of social responsibility. This will assist the Department in foreseeing the future and analysing the different lifestyles of different families to ensure providing the highest standards of a dignified life, a report said.

The Family Exploratory Study focuses on ensuring family cohesion and stability in light of rapid social and economic changes. This requires cooperation between all parties starting from the family itself, by raising awareness and enabling community members to deal with the factors that affect family stability in a positive manner.  It needs to be emphasised that the UAE has set a shining example for supporting and respecting time-tested values such as human dignity. It believes in spreading the values of kindness and compassion among human beings. The nation views them as essential tools for their ultimate mission of spreading happiness among the people.

Keeping this in mind, it can be reiterated that family values – not forgetting bonds of marriage – matter a lot. They form the essential principles of a contented society.