The United Arab Emirates has sponsored a mass wedding for 250 Palestinian couples in Gaza, giving hundreds of newlyweds a rare moment of celebration amid the devastation and financial hardship caused by the war.
The ceremony took place on Friday along the Gaza City beachfront, bringing together couples whose plans to marry had been delayed by conflict, displacement and the rising cost of holding a wedding.
The event was organised by the UAE’s Operation Gallant Knight 3, a humanitarian mission launched in November 2023 to support Palestinians affected by the war.
Palestinian couples celebrate weddings after postponements
Brides wore wedding gowns and carried bouquets, while grooms appeared in dark suits, with some wearing traditional keffiyeh scarves.
Many couples had put off their weddings as the conflict disrupted their lives and made it difficult for young Palestinians to afford marriage ceremonies.
The UAE’s diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, Dr Anwar Gargash, said the celebration reflected the country’s continued commitment to supporting Gaza.
Gargash said, “Gaza and its people remain at the heart of the UAE’s humanitarian efforts despite the world’s many crises.”
UAE says aid efforts aim to revive hope
He said humanitarian assistance was intended not only to ease suffering but also to help people regain hope, describing the wedding as part of a broader effort to bring moments of happiness to the enclave.
The UAE marked three years of Operation Gallant Knight 3 on November 5. Figures from the Emirates News Agency cited in the report show that the operation has delivered more than 136,000 tonnes of aid valued at $4.16bn.
The UAE said its contribution represented about 46 per cent of international humanitarian assistance reaching the Palestinian territory. The programme has included food, medical supplies, shelter and other support for residents affected by the conflict.
For the 250 couples, the beachfront ceremony offered a chance to celebrate marriage despite the hardships surrounding them.