How to Get Married in Dubai: A Guide for Nepalese Residents

For Nepalese citizens living in the UAE, getting married in Dubai is now easier than ever, thanks to the civil marriage services available for non-Muslim residents. Whether you’re a long-term resident or just starting your life in the UAE, understanding the legal process for marriage is crucial to ensure your marriage is recognized both in the UAE and back in Nepal. This guide will walk you through the steps, requirements, and services available for getting married in Dubai, tailored specifically for Nepalese residents.

Types of Marriage in Dubai

For non-Muslim residents, Dubai offers two main options for legal marriage:

Civil Marriage: This is the most common option for Nepalese and other non-Muslim expats. A civil marriage is a legal union based on secular laws rather than religious requirements. The process is straightforward and does not require religious rites.
Religious Marriage: For those wishing to have a religious ceremony, it is also possible to marry according to your religious beliefs, such as through a Christian or Hindu ceremony. However, this must be followed by civil registration to ensure the marriage is legally recognized in the UAE.

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The Process of Civil Marriage in Dubai

Dubai offers a civil marriage service for non-Muslim residents, allowing couples to get married in just 24 hours. Here’s how Nepalese residents can complete the process:

1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Non-Muslim Status: Both parties must be non-Muslims to qualify for a civil marriage in Dubai.
Residency: At least one of the individuals must be a resident of Dubai.
Minimum Age: Both the bride and groom must be at least 21 years old.
Single Status: Both individuals must provide proof that they are not married to anyone else.
Personal Appearance: The couple or their legal representatives must appear in person for the application and ceremony.

2. Gather the Required Documents

Passports: Original passports of both parties, along with Emirates ID (if applicable).
Proof of Single Status: Official documents proving that neither party is currently married. This may require legal certification from the home country.
Residence Visa: At least one party must hold a valid Dubai residence visa.
Translation Requirements: Documents in languages other than Arabic must be translated into Arabic and certified by the UAE’s Ministry of Justice.

3. Submit the Application

You can apply for a civil marriage through Dubai’s online portals or visit the Dubai Court in person to submit the necessary documents. All documents should be submitted in soft copy (PDF format).

4. Marriage Ceremony

Once your application is approved, Dubai offers a civil marriage service within 24 hours. The ceremony takes place at the Dubai Court and typically lasts a short amount of time, making it convenient for busy couples.
There’s no need for witnesses, as the court’s officiant acts as the witness to the ceremony. However, couples are welcome to bring family or friends, along with photographers to capture the moment.

5. Obtain the Marriage Certificate

After the ceremony, the couple will receive their official marriage certificate. It is advisable to get the certificate attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for international use, including in Nepal.

Documents and Certification

For Nepalese citizens, some documents will need to be certified both in the UAE and in Nepal. Documents issued outside of the UAE, such as birth certificates or divorce papers, must be:

Certified by the UAE Embassy in Nepal and the Nepalese Embassy in the UAE.
Attested by the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Make sure you follow the correct procedures for document certification to ensure the marriage is recognized in both countries.

Getting Married in Abu Dhabi

In addition to Dubai, Nepali citizens living in the UAE can also consider getting married in Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court offers a civil marriage service for non-Muslims. It has slightly different procedures, but it is available for residents of all UAE emirates, including Dubai.

The process in Abu Dhabi offers two options:

Regular Service: The marriage is processed within 10 working days and costs AED 300.
Express Service: The marriage is processed within one day for a fee of AED 2,500, allowing for a quick ceremony and the convenience of choosing a specific date.

Things to Consider Before Getting Married in the UAE

Document Attestation: For Nepalese residents, it’s essential to ensure that your marriage certificate is attested by the relevant authorities for use in Nepal.
Pre-Nuptial Agreement: While not mandatory, a pre-nuptial agreement is an option that couples can consider for financial clarity.
Marriage Laws for Muslim Residents: Keep in mind that civil marriage services do not apply to UAE nationals who are Muslim, as Islamic law governs their marriages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Getting Married in Dubai UAE

1. Can Tourists Get Married in Dubai?

Yes, tourists with valid UAE Visit Visas can also get married in Dubai, provided both parties meet the criteria for civil marriage and submit the required documents. However, at least one person must have valid residency in Dubai to proceed.

2. Do I Need a Medical Test Before Marriage?

No, a medical test is not required for civil marriages in Dubai, making the process quicker and simpler.

3. Is the Marriage Recognized in Nepal?

Yes, the civil marriage conducted in Dubai is recognized in Nepal, provided that the marriage certificate is attested by the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nepalese Embassy in the UAE.

Final Thoughts

Getting married in Dubai is a simple and efficient process for Nepalese residents, with services tailored to meet the needs of non-Muslim expats. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your marriage is legal, recognized internationally, and celebrated without stress.

If you’re planning to Get Married in Dubai UAE, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready, and consider the option of a civil marriage in 24 hours for a quick and easy ceremony. Whether you’re settling down for family life or simply starting your journey together, Dubai offers a convenient and straightforward legal process for your special day.

For more information or assistance with your marriage process, visit the Dubai Court website or consult legal experts who specialize in marriage laws for expats in the UAE.