Al Hamraa Wilayat in the interior region of Oman has a special occasion to celebrate as preparations for a mass-wedding began last Thursday and is expected to culminate in 42 couples tying knot in a grand finale on Friday.

An Omani youth, currently pursuing his higher studies in the UK, has also registered for the mass-wedding through the Internet, reports a local daily.

Mohammed Al Abri, a chief coordinator for the mass wedding, told the Times of Oman that such event would save time and expense.

"It also morally and materially strengthens the feeling of togetherness among the community," he added.

He revealed that the event had received a grant of 2,500 riyal from the Ministry of Social Development in a bid to encourage such an idea through the country. "On the sidelines of the marriage celebration two lectures from a religious and social point of view would be held," he noted.

Last year mass-weddings, patronised by the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, was organised in Nakhl and Birka, where 13 couples took vows.