In a wedding held last week in Dubai, guests were treated to a breathtaking display as 200 drones lit up the sky, forming stunning scenes from the couple’s love story, including a sparkling heart with their initials at the center.
Once a futuristic novelty, drone shows are now becoming a sought-after feature at weddings, especially in the UAE, as couples look for unique ways to make their celebrations unforgettable.
According to Sarita Ahlawat, co-founder and managing director of BotLab Dynamics, an Indian company that specializes in drone shows, the demand for such entertainment has surged in recent years.
“When we started, the idea of a drone show at a wedding was almost unheard of,” Ahlawat explained. “It was seen as a novelty for ultra-luxury events. But now, there’s a rapidly growing trend of couples wanting to incorporate drone shows into their celebrations.”
BotLab Dynamics has executed over a hundred wedding drone shows in various cities in India, and the trend is gaining momentum in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai.
“Indian destination weddings in the UAE, especially Dubai, have really embraced drone entertainment,” Ahlawat said, noting an increase in requests from Indian families.
Additionally, there has been growing interest from other countries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, as couples seek to recreate the magical sky shows after seeing videos of previous events.
The allure of drone shows lies in their ability to deliver a spectacular and mesmerizing experience for guests. “At the wedding party in Dubai, as the show began, there was a collective gasp from the crowd,” Ahlawat recalled.
“The bride and groom were holding hands, and everyone, from tech-savvy kids to elderly relatives, was captivated by the sight. The ‘wow’ factor of a drone show is undeniable.”
Drone shows gained widespread attention in 2024, when BotLab Dynamics organized one for the pre-wedding event of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, the high-profile wedding of the son of Indian industrialist Mukesh Ambani.
The company flew 5,500 drones, creating the largest drone light show ever in India at the time. “That spectacle made headlines worldwide,” Ahlawat said. “It raised public awareness about drone shows and made them the talk of the town.”
However, drone shows remain a premium option. Wedding industry experts acknowledge that they are not yet a mainstream trend, primarily due to the cost.
“The price remains a significant factor, making drone shows more accessible to high-end celebrations,” said Rhiannon Downie-Hurst, founder of BrideClubME.
“While the popularity of drone displays is rising at luxury weddings, it’s important to consider permits, venue restrictions, and safety protocols when planning such an event in the UAE.”
The cost of a drone show can be a major consideration for many couples. Dubai resident M.K.H. explored the idea of having a drone show for his daughter’s wedding, but the price was “eye-popping.” “It would have almost doubled my budget,” he said, deciding instead to go with fireworks.
Despite the high-end nature of drone shows, Ahlawat believes they are becoming more accessible. “You can still have a magical show with a few hundred drones, and the cost can be comparable to an elaborate fireworks display or a high-end performance,” she explained.
As drone entertainment continues to evolve, it seems that more and more couples will be looking to the skies for unforgettable wedding memories.