The billion dollar affair: These are the world's most expensive weddings ever!
For many, a wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event and should be memorable by all standards. However, some unions stand out for their astounding costs.
From royal weddings to carnival-like celebrations, the world has seen it all. This article highlights the most expensive weddings ever, with details on expenses made on venues, attire and performances.
Said Gutseriev and Khadija Uzhakhova – $1 billion
In 2016, Russian oil heir Said Gutseriev married student Khadija Uzhakhova in Moscow. Widely considered the most expensive wedding of all time, it cost an estimated $1 billion. Highlights included a custom Elie Saab gown weighing 25kg, floor-to-ceiling floral displays, and live performances by Jennifer Lopez, Sting, and Enrique Iglesias. Guests left with jewel-studded gift boxes.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant – $600 million
In 2024, India witnessed another spectacular wedding when Anant Ambani, son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, wed Radhika Merchant. The week-long celebration cost an estimated $600 million, featuring lavish décor, celebrity guests, and multiple pre-wedding galas. Reports from Forbes note that the Ambanis’ weddings often rival state events, drawing international headlines.
Prince Charles and Lady Diana – $140 million
Dubbed the “wedding of the century,” the 1981 royal wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer drew a global audience of 750 million. At the time, it cost around $48 million, but adjusted for inflation, it equals roughly $140 million today. The ornate St. Paul’s Cathedral ceremony featured Diana’s iconic 25-foot train gown and unparalleled media coverage.
Sheikh Mohammed and Princess Hind – $137 million
The 1979 union of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of Dubai and Princess Hind bint Maktoum remains one of the most lavish Middle Eastern weddings ever. Estimated at $137 million, the week-long festivities included a purpose-built stadium to host thousands of guests and performers.
5. Cleopatra and Mark Antony – $104 million
Though dating back to antiquity, historians often cite the marriage feast of Cleopatra VII of Egypt and Roman general Mark Antony as one of history’s costliest. Adjusted estimates place it at around $104 million today, accounting for opulent banquets, gold décor, and imported luxuries across the Mediterranean.
