Emirati billionaire Khalaf Al Habtoor urges mandatory marriage before 30, believing strong families are essential to national stability and social responsibility/ Image:X
In a recent statement that has sparked widespread discussion, Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, the Emirati billionaire businessman and founder of the Al Habtoor Group, emphasized the importance of marriage in maintaining societal cohesion and stability in the UAE. Al Habtoor’s call, made via social media platform X, urges young Emiratis to marry at an earlier age and advocates for governmental action to encourage and facilitate marriage. His comments have prompted both support and debate, as the UAE navigates the complex dynamics of family structures in an increasingly diverse society.
A call to action for young Emiratis
Khalaf Al Habtoor, known for his philanthropic efforts and influential role in the UAE’s growth, expressed deep concern about the increasing number of young Emiratis delaying or avoiding marriage. “I feel sad every time I see young Emirati men and women over the age of thirty who are not yet married,” Al Habtoor stated in his message. He underlined that these individuals represent the “true wealth of the homeland” and the “future of this blessed land,” built on family values passed down from previous generations. According to him, the continuation of the nation hinges on the preservation of these values and the stability brought by family units. He further emphasized that without marriage, both the family structure and society at large would be at risk.
The importance of marriage for society’s stability
Al Habtoor, whose Al Habtoor Group spans multiple industries including hospitality, automotive, real estate, education, and publishing, argued that marriage is not only a personal commitment but a societal necessity. “Marriage is not merely a bond between a man and a woman, but it is the beginning of life, the stability of a society, and the continuity of a nation,” he said. This view echoes the UAE’s longstanding emphasis on family as the cornerstone of societal well-being. In his call for action, Al Habtoor urged young Emiratis to marry without hesitation or delay. “There is nothing more beautiful in life than to have a home that unites one with the one they love and children who fill their lives with warmth and meaning,” he wrote. He also addressed a key concern: the financial and societal pressures that often discourage young people from committing to marriage. He urged that neither financial resources nor capabilities should be excuses for postponing marriage, highlighting that the UAE government already offers substantial support to its citizens, including in areas like housing, healthcare, and education.
Advocating for a law to encourage early marriage
Building on his initial remarks, Al Habtoor suggested the introduction of a law that would mandate Emiratis to marry before the age of 30. “I hope that a law will be enacted that obligates young men and women to marry before reaching the age of twenty-seven or thirty,” he stated. This recommendation is part of his broader argument that the state, while offering significant support, cannot carry the entire responsibility for ensuring the continuation of the nation. “The state provides education, housing, healthcare, and marriage support, but we too have a responsibility to support the marriages of our sons and daughters,” he added. In his view, anyone who chooses to avoid marriage without a legitimate excuse should be held accountable, as he believes it directly affects the survival and cohesion of society.
Promoting a positive view of marriage in the media
In the wake of his statement, Al Habtoor expanded on how the UAE’s media could play a role in shaping public attitudes toward marriage. He encouraged the media to focus on spreading positive stories about marriage and family life, warning against the amplification of negative news surrounding divorce and marital issues. According to Al Habtoor, sensationalized media coverage creates unnecessary fear and hesitation among young people regarding commitment and responsibility. By presenting positive role models, the media could help change the narrative around marriage, making it a more attractive and achievable goal for the younger generation.
A unified approach to strengthening family values
Al Habtoor’s call extends beyond just encouraging marriage; he stresses that the responsibilities of marriage must be well understood by both parties. “Marriage is a partnership and a responsibility, not simply a relationship between a man and a woman,” he said. He elaborated that a man must embrace his role as a husband and leader of the family, while a woman must understand her vital contribution to raising children and maintaining a loving home. When both partners fulfill their roles with sincerity, cooperation, and mutual respect, marriage becomes a foundation for flourishing families and a content society. Furthermore, Al Habtoor expressed that building cohesive families is a national responsibility. He underscored that stable families are the backbone of a stable nation. “When we preserve the family, we protect our values and safeguard our future,” he concluded. His message emphasizes the importance of both individual and collective action in nurturing the family unit and fostering societal cohesion.
Al Habtoor Group: A symbol of Emirati excellence
Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor’s leadership extends far beyond his personal views on marriage and family life. As the founder of Al Habtoor Group, a conglomerate established in 1970, Al Habtoor has become a symbol of Emirati success and global influence. The group, which began as a small engineering firm, has since evolved into one of the UAE’s most prominent conglomerates with significant ventures in hospitality, automotive, real estate, and education. Al Habtoor’s businesses continue to reflect his commitment to excellence, with luxury hotels, iconic developments, and prestigious educational institutions contributing to the UAE’s standing on the global stage. His influence is not only limited to business but extends to philanthropy and social advocacy, where he actively supports causes related to education, healthcare, and economic development. Through his position, he seeks to shape a prosperous future for both his company and his nation. Go to Source
