Marriage Fund grants Dh206m in 2001

The Marriage Fund gave grants totalling nearly Dh206 million in 2001 which benefited 4,208 UAE national grooms.

The number of beneficiaries was up from 4,054 in 2000 and more than double the 1993 figure of 2,064, it emerged yesterday.

More than 26,300 couples have benefited from the fund since it was set up in 1993.

"It is not just a matter of money, we want to reach the community," said Dr Abdelrahman Al Mahmoud, manager of the financial and administration department at the Marriage Fund.

The fund also organises seminars to give advice to men and women. "A recent lecture given in Ras Al Khaimah proved to be very successful - men and women showed a lot of enthusiasm," he said.

Mahmoud said the fund plans to upgrade its method of working. Applicants will soon be able to access their files by computer.

"We have introduced a programme called Al Tawafooq. Applicants will be able to fill forms and send them via e-mail. This should be introduced around April."