Hambantota, Sri Lanka | March 26–29, 2026

Sri Lanka proudly welcomed over 800 international guests for the destination wedding of entrepreneur Mujtaba Shaikhani and Dr. Hafsha Merchant, a distinguished aesthetic medicine doctor from Mumbai. The four-day celebration, held at the Shangri-La Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa, marked one of the largest international weddings hosted in the country, with guests staying an average of five to seven nights and contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s tourism economy.

About the Families and the Couple:

This union brought together two respected families from the fields of global business and modern medicine.

  • • Mujtaba Shaikhani (Groom’s family)was recognized for his leadership in the global insulation industry through the Gulf O Flex brand, which had expanded across multiple international markets with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.
  • • Dr. Hafsha Merchant (Bride’s family) was celebrated in Mumbai for her pioneering work in aesthetic medicine, advancing modern cosmetic and skin treatments with precision and patient-centered care.

Together, their marriage symbolized not only a personal bond but also a connection between communities across South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

A Celebration of Culture and Hospitality:

Guests from the United Arab Emirates, India, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, and Sri Lanka gathered for four days of themed celebrations, culminating in a sunset nikkah ceremony overlooking the Indian Ocean and a grand reception titled The Royal Affair, inspired by Moroccan elegance. International performers and artists added vibrancy to the festivities, blending tradition with modern luxury.

Government Endorsement and National Importance:

The Government of Sri Lanka identified the promotion and support of such international events as a major responsibility in advancing the country’s tourism vision. It remained vital that both government and private institutions were fully prepared to host large-scale events, ensuring seamless hospitality and infrastructure.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) officially endorsed this wedding celebration and extended their full support to make it a success. Their involvement underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to positioning itself as a premier global destination for weddings and international gatherings.

The ceremony held on 29th March 2026 was graced by the Chief Guest, Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism. His presence highlighted the national significance of the event as a symbol of friendship, cultural exchange, and international goodwill.

Looking Ahead:

As Sri Lanka continued to diversify its tourism offerings, this landmark wedding demonstrated the nation’s ability to host large-scale international gatherings with elegance, authenticity, and world-class hospitality. It was not only a celebration of love but also a powerful showcase of Sri Lanka’s potential as one of the world’s leading destinations for weddings and beyond.