Gender reveal parties have been gaining popularity around the world, and in the UAE, residents are going all out to celebrate this special event, with some parties costing up to Dh500,000. Event planners in the country have noticed a shift towards gender reveals becoming more popular globally. The cost of these parties typically ranges above Dh250,000, depending on the creative vision and the number of attendees. However, planners are also accommodating smaller budgets and providing feasible options.
Dubai-based influencers have been setting the trend for elaborate gender reveal parties. Influencers Nora and Khalid Alherani hosted a party with a drone show, while Syrian influencers Anas and Asala Marwah conducted their reveal as a light display on the Burj Khalifa in 2020. The popularity of such parties is partly attributed to social media, as people like to share visually appealing moments online. Additionally, the pandemic has contributed to the rise in popularity, as people are finding more ways to celebrate life amid challenging times.
Despite controversies surrounding gender reveal parties globally, the trend seems to be growing in the UAE. Natasha Hatherall-Shawe, founder of digital marketing agency Tish Tash, mentioned that brands are increasingly willing to collaborate with influencers for such events. Collaborations can include venues, decorations, cakes, hair and makeup, and clothing for reveals. While producing content for brands can be costly, gender reveals are attractive to brands due to their viral nature.
For event planners, gender reveal parties often involve emotional connections with clients. Kunal Rupani, Managing Director of Big Night Events, shared a memorable event where the gender was revealed in a grand moment with streamer blasts, colored smoke, and a backdrop filled with balloons. He emphasized the importance of simplicity and affordability in gender reveal parties, noting that they can be done with a cake and balloons without excessive costs. Despite varying opinions, the trend of gender reveals seems to be here to stay, with potential for becoming a mainstream part of life.
Natasha highlighted the commercial potential of gender reveals, with an increasing availability of decorations in stores and online. She mentioned that simple and affordable gender reveal parties are still preferred by many, while Gauri Chadha, creative director of Big Night Events, expressed the belief that gender reveals are a lasting trend in the UAE. The creativity and imagination that go into these events, such as drone shows and balloon pops, make gender reveals a unique and exciting celebration in the country. Ultimately, the popularity of gender reveal parties in the UAE continues to grow, with residents embracing the opportunity to create memorable and creative experiences for their special moments.
