Several economists have estimated the cost of Saudi marriages at over SR2 billion annually.

Though the figure is huge, the estimates covered direct expenses incurred by the families of the bride and groom.

“If we view this issue with a more comprehensive approach, we will find ourselves faced with a figure that might be difficult to believe,” said one expert.

Due to the importance given to superficial matters, marriages have become races to attract public attention, he said.

A report prepared by Al-Yaum newspaper opened the way to deal with the subject and analyze the costs of marriage, which are expected to increase further.

The expert said taking direct costs alone into account will not help reach the real amount Saudis spend every year on weddings. The costs of total expenses for the occasion, including money spent by the families of the bride and the groom or people invited to the wedding.

“The bill for a single wedding will rise to staggering figures that may exceed SR1 million if we take into account the money guests spend on clothes and jewelry,” he said.

Customs invariably dictate that expensive clothes and jewelry worn on one occasion should not be used at another. Then there is the hospitality aspect and its requirements.

“We are faced with a huge market whose products are used for just one night for no purpose other than to show off one’s self-claimed social standing. All of this means that the young men and women of this country are finding it increasingly difficult to afford marriage expenses,” he said.

He called for more studies on the economic costs of marriages in the Kingdom and said such studies could shed more light on the issue, revealing a clearer and more realistic picture.

 
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