Destination weddings are the ultimate luxury—transforming a personal milestone into an unforgettable spectacle. But for the ultra-wealthy, exclusivity is key. From private island buyouts to ceremonies atop glaciers, these weddings redefine extravagance.
In this list, we explore the most expensive destination weddings ever held, breaking down their jaw-dropping costs, rare venues, and what makes them worth millions.
1. Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas’s Royal Indian Wedding
Price: $10 million+
Location: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, India
Why It’s So Expensive
- Historic palace rental: The Umaid Bhawan Palace, a $125 million architectural marvel, hosted multiple wedding events.
- Custom couture: Priyanka’s Ralph Lauren gown was hand-stitched over 1,800 hours.
- A-list security & privacy: Helicopters, elite security teams, and NDAs for guests.
Unique Features
- Multi-day celebrations blending Western and Indian traditions.
- Private concert by Jonas Brothers and Bollywood stars.
Where to Book Similar: Taj Hotels Palaces offers royal wedding packages.
Image Prompt: Priyanka Chopra in a red lehenga at Umaid Bhawan Palace’s grand staircase, lit by thousands of diyas.
2. Google Exec’s Private Island Wedding in Fiji
Price: $15 million
Location: Laucala Island, Fiji
Why It’s So Expensive
- Entire island buyout: Laucala Island costs $150,000 per night for exclusivity.
- Luxury villas & helicopter transfers for 200+ guests.
- Underwater reception with a custom-built glass tunnel.
Unique Features
- Farm-to-table gourmet feasts from the island’s organic farms.
- Firewalking ceremony performed by Fijian warriors.
Where to Book Similar: Laucala Island Resorts offers full-island weddings.
Image Prompt: A sunset wedding on a Fiji beach with a floating floral aisle leading into the ocean.
3. Glacier Wedding in Antarctica
Price: $3 million+
Location: Union Glacier, Antarctica
Why It’s So Expensive
- Logistical nightmare: Guests flew in via private jet ($500,000+) and stayed in heated pods.
- Permits & environmental compliance for polar ceremonies.
- Only 5-10 weddings ever held here due to extreme conditions.
Unique Features
- Ceremony atop an ice cathedral carved for the event.
- Penguin “ring bearers” (trained handlers ensured no wildlife disruption).
Where to Book Similar: White Desert arranges Antarctic expeditions.
Image Prompt: A couple exchanging vows inside a glowing ice cave, surrounded by turquoise walls.
4. Dubai’s $20 Million Sky-High Wedding
Price: $20 million
Location: Burj Al Arab, Dubai
Why It’s So Expensive
- Helipad ceremony 1,000 feet above the city.
- Gold-leaf desserts & diamond-encrusted invitations.
- Performance by Beyoncé ($2 million fee).
Unique Features
- Live falconry display during vows.
- Fireworks synchronized to a private orchestra.
Where to Book Similar: Burj Al Arab Weddings offers ultra-luxury packages.
Image Prompt: A bride in a crystal gown standing on the Burj Al Arab helipad with Dubai’s skyline below.
5. Ambani’s $100 Million Pre-Wedding Extravaganza
Price: $100 million (pre-wedding events only)
Location: Lake Como, Italy & Udaipur, India
Why It’s So Expensive
- Chartered flights for 1,000+ guests.
- Performance by Rihanna ($6 million).
- Custom-built temple replica for ceremonies.
Unique Features
- Elephant procession with gold-plated saddles.
- 3D hologram invitations with personalized messages.
Where to Book Similar: Aman Resorts for elite destination weddings.
Image Prompt: A grand elephant parade in Udaipur, adorned in gold and jewels, escorting the groom.
Final Thoughts: What Makes These Weddings Worth Millions?
These weddings aren’t just about love—they’re status symbols. From unreachable locations to A-list performances, the ultra-rich spare no expense to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Want a taste of luxury? Some venues offer scaled-down packages—because even a $1 million wedding can feel exclusive.
Which of these would you choose? Let us know in the comments!
