Medeem Initiative Helps Boost Marriage Stability in Abu Dhabi

Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi organised a media briefing to mark two years since the launch of the “Medeem” initiative, highlighting its role in supporting young Emiratis as they begin married life with greater confidence and stability.

The event was held at the Medeem Family Preparation Centre and coincided with the UAE’s Year of the Family, reinforcing efforts aimed at strengthening family stability and improving quality of life.

Launched in April 2024 as part of Abu Dhabi’s Family Wellbeing Strategy, the Medeem initiative was created to help young people prepare for marriage and build stable families through a range of support services offered during different stages of family life.

According to officials, the initiative has achieved significant results over the past two years. The Medeem model accounted for 26% of all weddings held in Abu Dhabi, while wedding costs were reduced by more than 41% compared to traditional ceremonies. Marriage contracts in the emirate also increased by 22% during the same period.

Since its launch, 1,343 weddings have been organised under the Medeem model, while more than 4,000 Emirati men and women completed premarital preparation programmes provided through the Medeem Family Preparation Centre.

Dr. Mona Al Mansouri said the initiative has helped many young Emiratis begin married life with greater confidence through services such as the Medeem women’s wedding model, premarital counselling programmes, and support packages offered in partnership with more than 40 public and private sector entities.

She added that the initiative contributes to creating a supportive environment that makes marriage more accessible and helps young people manage challenges related to family life and financial planning.

Dr. Al Mansouri noted that the initiative has also contributed to encouraging marriage at an earlier age, improving financial awareness among young couples, and reinforcing traditional Emirati family values.

As Medeem enters its third year, the Department of Community Development plans to expand the initiative further, including opening a new Medeem Family Preparation Centre in Al Ain and introducing additional services aimed at strengthening family stability and social cohesion across the emirate.