Getting Married in Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide 2023

Unlocking Dubai's Wedding Magic: Your Definitive Guide to Tying the Knot in a City of Extravagance

Dubai, with its stunning landscapes, luxurious venues, and rich cultural diversity, is an enchanting place to tie the knot. Whether you're a resident or planning a destination wedding, here's a glimpse into the enchanting world of getting married in Dubai.

The Perfect Backdrop

Picture saying your vows against the backdrop of the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, or exchanging rings on the pristine beaches overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Dubai offers a mesmerizing array of venues for every couple's dream wedding.

Legal Requirements

Before diving into wedding planning, it's essential to understand the legal requirements for marriage in Dubai:

1. Residency Status: At least one of the individuals getting married should be a resident of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). If both are residents, the marriage process becomes more straightforward.

2. Religious Freedom:  Dubai welcomes couples from all religious backgrounds. You can choose to have a civil or religious ceremony, depending on your faith.

3. Age: The legal age for marriage is 18 for both parties. If either party is under 18, special permission from a court is required.

4. Medical Certificate:  A premarital medical examination is mandatory for UAE residents. This certificate confirms that you are free from certain infectious diseases.

5. Marriage License: Visit the Dubai Courts or the Sharia Court to obtain a marriage license. You will need to submit required documents, including passports, residency visas, and the medical certificate.

6. Legal Translation:  If any of your documents are not in Arabic, they must be translated by an official translator and attested.

7.  Witnesses: You will need two Muslim male witnesses or one Muslim male and two Muslim female witnesses. Non-Muslim expats can opt for non-Muslim witnesses.

Religious Ceremonies

For religious ceremonies, follow these steps:

1. Islamic Marriage: If both parties are Muslim, the marriage can be conducted at an Islamic center or mosque.

2. Non-Muslim Marriage: Non-Muslims can have their religious ceremony at their respective places of worship, such as churches or temples.

3. Interfaith Marriage: For interfaith marriages, consider conducting two separate ceremonies, one for each religion, to ensure legal recognition.

Civil Ceremonies

For a civil ceremony, follow these steps:

1. Registry Office: Visit the Dubai Courts or a local notary office to submit your marriage application and the required documents.

2. Waiting Period: There is typically a 21-day waiting period before the marriage certificate is issued.

3. Civil Ceremony: Once the waiting period is over, you can schedule your civil ceremony at the Dubai Courts.

Post-Marriage Formalities

After your wedding, complete the following formalities:

1. Marriage Certificate: Obtain your marriage certificate from the Dubai Courts.

2. Attestation: Get the certificate attested at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and your respective embassy.

3. Name Change: If you wish to change your name, update it on your legal documents, such as passports and IDs.

4. Dependent Visa: If one of you is on a dependent visa, ensure it is updated with your marital status.

5. Celebration: Plan your wedding reception or celebration at one of Dubai's many venues, from luxurious hotels to picturesque beach resorts.

Destination Weddings

If you're planning a destination wedding in Dubai, consider hiring a local wedding planner who can assist with the legal requirements and help you navigate the process more smoothly. Dubai offers a unique and magical backdrop for your special day, whether you prefer a traditional ceremony or a lavish celebration. With the right preparations and a touch of Dubai's glamour, your wedding in this dazzling city will be a cherished memory for a lifetime.