With public perception increasingly suspicious of transactional corporate culture, the Al Habtoor Group, one of the UAE’s most prestigious businesses, set a new world standard for the level of appreciation employees receive. Their Chairman and CEO Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor recently revealed an impressive financial motivation program to help employees get settled and become husband and wife.
Every member of the Al Habtoor Group who will link-up in 2026 will be eligible to access a monetary reward of 50,000 AED or around ₹12.5 Lakh under the newly established "Marriage Grant" fund.
The Government Grant Vision: More than just money
Khalaf Al Habtoor says marriage is not just a private one; it is a foundation for a stable, prosperous society. He thinks helping employees through this pivotal time in life makes the company a part of the nation’s long-term growth and social tapestry. "Marriage is a big achievement, when personal obligations come to social obligations. It’s a crucial point in creating a young, vibrant society,” the chief executive said at the announcement.
Many young professionals, he said, also delay marriage indefinitely because of rising living expenses and the cost of a wedding. By eliminating this financial obstacle, Al Habtoor Group aspires to guarantee that no employee can postpone their happiness because of a lack of financial resources. The terms and the "Double Bonus". As for 2026 Grant eligibility requirements, the process is transparent yet strictly enforced.
Employees must submit:
- A formal wedding invitation card.
- Official marriage certificate.
- Photos of the ceremony and other relevant paperwork.
But that kindness does not only end at the church. The CEO then made a "Baby Bonus" announcement which has shocked the experts. With the marriage grant of 2026, if you have a child in no more than two years after you and the company get together, they will send you an extra of ₹24 Lakh (100,000 AED) to help cover the cost of parenting and education.
Global Reaction: A Talent attracting magnet
The announcement sparked a stir in the company's offices in Dubai and far beyond. Even as current bachelor staff are said to be racing to finalize their wedding plans by 2026, it’s also led the Al Habtoor Group to be the preferred employer of choice in the GCC region.
According to recruitment companies, the benefits of being life-centric can make a significant difference when it comes to employee retention and loyalty. In a time of 'quiet quitting', and high turnover among corporate employees, Al Habtoor plays a human in Human Resources policy.
Looking Beyond 2026
Khalaf Al Habtoor stressed that the sum currently invested was set aside for 2026, but the program is supposed to be an ongoing commitment. The grant amounts in following years will be reviewed and announced based on the economic environment so that when a new year comes around, the support in future will actually be useful, meaningful and impactful. This news can be circulated and made a point to corporations all over the globe that investing in individual wellness and social cohesion will help build a better workforce.
