How to get married on a beautiful beach in UAE?

Dreaming of saying “I do” with the gentle lapping of waves as your soundtrack and a breathtaking Arabian sunset as your backdrop? A beach wedding in the UAE offers an undeniably romantic and picturesque setting for your special day. While the vision might be idyllic, navigating the legalities and logistics requires careful planning, but with the right guidance, your dream seaside nuptials can absolutely become a reality in this stunning emirate.

Legal Requirements for Getting Married in the UAE

Before you even think about sand between your toes, understanding the legal requirements for marriage in the UAE is paramount. The country’s marriage laws are governed by Islamic Sharia principles, but recent reforms have made civil marriages more accessible for non-Muslim expatriates and tourists.

For Muslim couples, marriage generally takes place in a Sharia Court. Key requirements typically include:

• Consent of both parties: The bride’s approval is essential.
• Age: Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If one party is twice the age of the other, a judge’s consent might be needed.
• Presence: Both the bride and groom, along with the bride’s father (or a legal guardian/proxy), and at least two Muslim male witnesses, must be physically present at the ceremony.
• Identification: Valid Emirates IDs for residents, or passports for both parties.
• Visa status: At least one individual in the marriage contract (groom, bride, or bride’s guardian) must hold a valid UAE residency visa. If the bride is on a visit visa, specific conditions apply, and a no-objection letter from her embassy/consulate might be required, translated into Arabic and attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Medical Fitness Certificate: Both parties must undergo a pre-marriage medical examination at an authorized government medical center in the UAE to confirm they are free from communicable diseases like HIV or thalassemia.

For non-Muslim couples, the UAE introduced new civil marriage laws in 2021, particularly in Abu Dhabi, which have simplified the process. Dubai has also followed suit with streamlined procedures. Key requirements for non-Muslim civil marriages usually include:

• Non-Muslim status: Both parties must be non-Muslims.
• Age: Both individuals must generally be at least 21 years old in Abu Dhabi for civil marriage, while in Dubai, it’s typically 18.
• No relation: The parties must not be related by first or second degree.
• Marital Status: Neither party should be currently married. Proof of current marital status (e.g., single status affidavit, divorce certificate, or death certificate of a previous spouse) is required and must be legalized by relevant authorities in the country of issue and the UAE.
• Residency: Typically, at least one party must be a resident of the UAE with a valid visa or Emirates ID. However, Abu Dhabi’s new civil marriage law (Law No. 14 of 2021) allows non-Muslim expatriates and tourists to marry there without a residency requirement, though you must travel to Abu Dhabi for the ceremony.
• Identification: Valid passports for both parties.
• Witnesses: Two witnesses are generally required for the ceremony.
• Application: Applications are filed at the Dubai Civil Court or the Notary Public (for non-Muslims in Dubai), or through the online portal for the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court.

It is crucial to note that laws can be updated, so always verify the most current regulations with the relevant authorities (e.g., Dubai Courts, Abu Dhabi Judicial Department) or consult with a legal expert or a seasoned wedding planner in the UAE.

Choosing Your Dream Beach Wedding Venue

The UAE boasts a spectacular coastline, offering a plethora of luxurious hotels and resorts that provide stunning settings for a beach wedding. These venues often have dedicated wedding planning teams to assist with all logistics.

In Dubai, some of the most sought-after beach wedding venues include:

• The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai: Located on JBR, this iconic hotel offers 350 meters of private golden sandy beach, providing an intimate and luxurious setting for sunset ceremonies. They boast extensive landscaped gardens and lawns that complement the beachfront ambiance.
• Atlantis, The Palm: Famous for its grand scale, Atlantis offers breathtaking beachfront locations with iconic backdrops, including views of the Palm Jumeirah. They have diverse spaces and can cater to elaborate or more intimate celebrations.
• Jumeirah Beach Hotel: Offering immaculate white sand and direct views of the Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel provides a quintessential Dubai beach wedding experience. They have private beach areas that ensure exclusivity.
• Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach: This resort exudes elegance and charm, with beautiful beachside and garden venues. Their attention to detail and exquisite culinary offerings make it a top choice for a sophisticated beachfront celebration.
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai: For couples seeking a more chic, casual, and vibrant beach club atmosphere, Nikki Beach offers stunning sea views and a trendy setting perfect for a non-traditional beach wedding.
• Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort: For a truly unique experience, this resort on the World Islands offers a private beach with the incredible Dubai skyline as your backdrop, providing an exclusive island splendor for your wedding.

In Abu Dhabi, equally stunning venues await:

• Saadiyat Beach Club: Located on Saadiyat Island, this venue offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and a pristine stretch of white sandy beach, ideal for intimate dinners or grand celebrations. Their “Summer Vows” package offers special touches for weddings between May and August.
• The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi: With nine kilometers of majestic white beach and crystal blue waters, The St. Regis offers an epitome of refinement and grace for beach weddings, complete with elegant venues and impeccable service.
• Al Maya Island & Resort: Just a 15-minute boat ride from Abu Dhabi, this exclusive island resort boasts one of the longest private beaches in Abu Dhabi, providing a breathtaking backdrop for lavish celebrations and grand receptions under the stars.
• Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island: Nestled on the shores of Yas Bay, this Hilton property offers an ideal location for a beach wedding, combining modern elegance with stunning waterfront views.

When selecting a venue, consider factors like the capacity, availability of private beach sections, backup indoor options in case of unexpected weather, and the expertise of their in-house wedding planning team. Many hotels will require you to use their catering services for events.

Permits, Planning, and Practicalities

Organizing a beach wedding in the UAE involves more than just picking a pretty spot; permits, guest comfort, and logistical considerations are vital.

Permits and Permissions: A beach wedding in Dubai or any other emirate typically requires specific permits, especially if you plan to use public beach areas. Most reputable hotels and resorts with private beach access will handle these permits as part of their wedding package. However, if you’re exploring a less traditional location, you’ll need to coordinate with Dubai Municipality, the local tourism authority (e.g., Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism), or hire a wedding planner who is well-versed in the necessary paperwork. This ensures that your ceremony is legally compliant and exclusive to your chosen area.

Guest Comfort: The beach environment presents unique challenges for guest comfort, especially during certain times of the year. While ideal from October to April, temperatures can still be warm. Consider providing:

• Shaded areas: Tents, canopies, or umbrellas are essential.
• Refreshments: Offer plenty of water, cold towels, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Footwear: Encourage guests to wear beach-friendly shoes or provide baskets of flip-flops.
• Thoughtful touches: Hand fans, insect repellent, and small bottles of sunscreen can make a big difference.
• Sound system: Ensure your sound system is robust enough to handle any wind and that microphones are working clearly for vows.

Wedding Attire: Light, breathable fabrics are key for both the couple and guests. Flowing gowns, simple lace, and lightweight suits work beautifully. Avoid heavy materials that can become uncomfortable in the sand or humidity. For footwear, barefoot sandals, wedges, or stylish flats are far more practical than heels.

Plan B: Even with the UAE’s generally predictable sunny weather, having a contingency plan is crucial. Discuss options with your venue for an indoor transition in case of unexpected rain, strong winds, or even a sudden sandstorm. A rented tent or canopy can also provide shelter.

Wedding Planner: Given the unique legal requirements and logistical complexities, hiring a wedding planner experienced in UAE beach weddings is highly advisable. They can guide you through the legalities, help secure permits, recommend suitable venues, coordinate vendors (photographers, florists, caterers, entertainment), and manage all the details, ensuring a smooth and stress-free day. They can also provide valuable insights into local cultural sensitivities regarding public displays of affection or music volume.

Estimated Costs of a Beach Wedding in the UAE

The cost of a beach wedding in the UAE can vary widely, much like any wedding, depending on the venue, number of guests, level of luxury, and services included.

• Venue Rental: Beach ceremonial weddings in Dubai can start from approximately AED 30,000 (around $8,100 USD) for venue rental, basic decorations, and essential services at some hotels. However, upscale locations like the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah might have minimum spends starting from AED 50,000 or more just for the venue. Other popular venues like The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina might range from approximately AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 for the venue.
• Catering: For five-star hotels, catering can range from approximately AED 100 to AED 180 per person for plated dinners. Buffet-style service might range from AED 150 to AED 350 per person. These costs depend on the menu choices and the prestige of the venue.
• Wedding Planner: Full wedding planning services can start from approximately AED 10,000 for smaller celebrations and go up to AED 50,000 or more for grand, multi-day affairs, not including vendor costs.
• Officiant/Celebrant: For a symbolic ceremony, a wedding officiant might range from approximately AED 2,500 to AED 5,990.
• Photography & Videography: Packages typically start from around AED 8,000 and can go up to AED 18,000+, depending on hours, deliverables, and the photographer’s experience.
• Decorations and Flowers: A floral arch for the ceremony can range from AED 1,500 to AED 10,000+. Table centerpieces start from AED 350 to AED 1,500+ per table. A bridal bouquet typically costs AED 300 to AED 1,000.
• Entertainment: Live bands or DJs can range from AED 4,000 to AED 25,000+.

It’s important to remember that these are approximate costs and can fluctuate based on market conditions, specific vendor choices, and the time of year. Always request detailed quotes from venues and service providers. Many venues also have minimum spend requirements for food and beverage, which can be substantial, ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 170,000+ for premium locations.

The www.few.ae team believes that a beach wedding in the UAE can be an enchanting and unforgettable celebration. With careful planning and attention to detail, your seaside dream can indeed come true. Are you leaning towards a grand resort celebration or a more intimate beachside affair for your wedding?