Reflective of the trend observed through the region, Ras Al Khaimah has also welcomed its fair share of destination weddings, which have steadily increased in recent years.
Describing what has fuelled this, Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, elucidated, "The emirate's untouched natural beauty and value for money proposition is attracting nuptial ceremonies from various international markets as well as residents from across the UAE."
Al Hajry also underlined Oman's diverse natural landscape as a contributor to its popularity guests, from picturesque mountains, to serene beaches, landscaped gardens or secluded desert, the Middle East offers the perfect backdrop to any special day.
This combined with local cultural, leisure and outdoor pursuits, as well as privacy away from tourist mayhem, makes Oman stand out.
Reiterating this view whilst mentioning the warm climate, Christian Ruge, general manager, Kempinski Hotel Ajman, pinpointed, "Speaking of MENA as the preferred destination, I believe the phenomenon of the area is the diversity, as the region has something to offer for every taste [...]."
With a third of the global population living within a four hour flight, and two thirds less than eight hours away, the region is fantastically positioned for destination weddings.
Ferghal Purcell, chief operating officer, Hospitality Management Holdings, underscored the UAE's strategic geographical location and connectivity as drivers into attracting increasing destination weddings.
Continuing to describe the country's appeal Purcell elaborated, "[...] A safe and secure family environment, exceptional choice of hotels to suit any budget and expectation and fabulous entertainment as well as leisure attractions makes it the ideal wedding destination."
Concurrently, Follad highlighted Bahrain as a leading destination due to its modern venues across diverse landscapes, and importantly, the country's friendliness and acceptance of all religions and traditions, a core element in attracting overseas marriage ceremonies.
While the region has much to offer, it is also considered a novel destination for a wedding.
With many couples determined to make their special day especially memorable, Cristoph Schleissing, general manager, Millennium Resort Mussanah, noted that, "Couple and wedding planners are looking for new and exciting destinations that have something unique to add to their wedding experience."
FROM THIS DAY FORWARD
Although there is immense promise for amplifying the wedding and honeymoon sector within the region, there is still more to be done.
Al Hajry elucidated, "Currently, the choice of venues is limited in Oman and soon the charm of the newness will get exhausted.
[...] Oman will need more venues for the expansion of the destination wedding market.
We also need to develop venues beyond Muscat." Having said that, the number of wedding shows is an indicator of how the industry will soar in the coming years.
Al Gizouli enthused, "I foresee this industry to accelerate even further in terms of growth especially considering the increasing number of yearly exhibitions hosted to promote this industry."
Indeed, the future certainly looks bright optimistic for this sector, which is only set to expand alongside the addition of new hotels.
In reference to Ras Al Khaimah, Mattar said, "The popularity of Ras Al Khaimah for weddings and honeymoons will continue to increase in the coming years, fuelled by the introduction of further luxury resorts."
Despite relying on word of mouth for its destination weddings, in fact the source of all its inbound celebrations, Sharar concluded, "The coming year is looking very healthy in terms of increasing the number of weddings, which means that I am optimistic that it will only grow."
