How to Get Married Online in Saudi Arabia (Step-by-Step Guide)

While traditional marriages in Saudi Arabia have been characterized by grand gatherings, intricate rituals, and the sanctity of family bonds, the advent of online marriages offers a contemporary avenue for couples to unite in the digital realm. This innovative approach to matrimony is gaining popularity, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. 

In this step-by-step guide, we explore the intricacies of online marriages in Saudi Arabia, shedding light on the evolving landscape of unions in the 21st century. 

The Legality of Online Marriages in Saudi Arabia

Before the onset of the global pandemic, stringent regulations were enforced in specific jurisdictions, mandating the physical presence of both the officiant and the couple for a marriage to be considered legally valid. Additionally, couples were required to personally visit the county clerk's office to obtain the necessary marriage license.

However, a transformative shift occurred in 2019 when the Utah County marriage license office collaborated with information technology departments to unveil an innovative, entirely digital marriage license application process. This groundbreaking system eliminated the necessity for couples to physically visit the office, streamlining both the application and submission of their marriage licenses.

Utah's online marriage procedure stands out for its inclusivity, granting accessibility to individuals irrespective of their place of residence. Typically, marriages legally solemnized in one state hold recognition across the United States, adhering to both state and federal regulations. This crucially means that a couple opting for legal matrimony through Utah's online system will find their marriage acknowledged by other states.

Note that as a general rule, marriages conducted legally in one country enjoy widespread acceptance in most other countries, underscoring the broad international recognition and validity of such unions.

Traditional Marriage Process in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the traditional marriage process is deeply rooted in cultural and religious customs, and it involves a meticulous series of steps. Below is an overview of the traditional marriage process in Saudi Arabia, incorporating information from the provided source and additional requirements for court marriages between Muslims:

Initiation of the Marriage Process

The process typically begins with a formal proposal from the groom or his family to the bride's guardians.

Consent and Agreement

Mutual consent of the bride and groom is crucial, involving discussions between both parties and their families to agree on terms such as dowry and other arrangements.

Involvement of Guardians and Witnesses

Guardians play a vital role in overseeing the ceremony, ensuring the well-being of the couple. Witnesses are also present to attest to the legitimacy of the marriage.

Religious Practices

The ceremony is conducted in adherence to Islamic customs, with guidance often sought from religious leaders.

Legal Requirements for Court Marriages

• Residence Permits: Both the bride and groom must possess valid residence permits.
• Personal Presence: Obligatory for spouses, witnesses, and guardians at the ceremony.
• Agreement to Terms: The couple must agree to the terms of the marriage.
• Religious Practices Agreement: Agreement on religious practices is essential [2].
• Witness Letter: A letter with details of two witnesses must be submitted.
• Medical Certificate (for citizens): Citizens are required to provide a medical certificate as part of the marriage documentation.

Marriage in Saudi Arabia for Foreigners

If you are a couple planning to move to Saudi Arabia on a work visa, it's crucial to be aware of the strict legal framework governed by Islamic law. Living together before marriage is considered a crime, and it is illegal to conceive or have a child without being married. To avoid legal issues and potential deportation, consider getting married as soon as possible. 

Here are key aspects about marriage in Saudi Arabia to know:

Legitimizing Your Relationship

Couples can legitimize their relationship either in family court or at their embassy. Under local law, only Muslims can marry, and marriages between individuals of other faiths are not recognized under Sharia law.

Marriage in Saudi Arabia for Non-Muslims

• Non-Muslim expats have limited options for an easy and romantic wedding in Saudi Arabia.
• Marriage at the embassy is the primary option, available in certain embassies like Great Britain and the Philippines.
• Necessary documents for embassy marriages vary and should be clarified directly with the respective embassy.

Marriage Requirements:

• Valid resident permits for both the bride and groom.
• Written permission from the current sponsor or guardian of the bride.
• Mutual agreement between the bride and groom.
• Completion of religious practices.
• The marriage contract can be signed at home for Arabic-speaking expat couples since 2018.
• Marriage licenses can take place in family courts for other Muslim expats.
• A medical report is required.
• Attendance of spouses, guardians of the bride, and their representatives.

Challenges for Non-Muslim Expats

Non-Muslim expats are advised to consider destination weddings in countries with more lenient family laws, such as Georgia or Seychelles. For expats unable to travel, an online wedding is a viable option. You can read more about the marriage requirements for expats in our dedicated article about navigating marriage laws in Saudi Arabia.

New Decree for Expats in Saudi Arabia

In a recent development, the Saudi Ministry of Justice has issued a new decree aimed at streamlining the marriage process for Arabic-speaking expatriates in the country. Under this decree, marriage officers now have the authority to efficiently process home-based marriage contracts for expats, offering a more convenient and accessible avenue for those seeking to formalize their unions.

This service is currently accessible in designated personal status courts, with plans for expansion to other regions in the future. Additionally, there is potential for the inclusion of non-Arabic speakers in this facilitative initiative as the program continues to evolve.

Courtly: Simplifying the Online Marriage Process in Saudi Arabia

Courtly offers a convenient and user-friendly solution designed for couples seeking a simplified marriage process. This innovative platform provides couples with the flexibility to remotely complete the entire procedure, eliminating the necessity for cumbersome documentation. Through Courtly's efficient approach, couples can seamlessly and expeditiously acquire a valid U.S. marriage certificate, markedly enhancing the convenience of the matrimonial journey.

Step-by-Step Guide for Getting Married Online in Saudi Arabia with Courtly

Courtly provides couples the convenience of completing the entire marriage process online, irrespective of their location. Obtaining a valid U.S. marriage certificate is expedited, often within 48 hours, eliminating the need for extensive documentation.

‍1. Create an Account

To register with Courtly, click on the "Get Married" icon in the top right corner. Follow the provided instructions, granting you access to the platform.

‍2. Select ceremony format, officiant, and setting

Take action by choosing the venue and ceremony style that aligns with your preferences. Based on your selected time and day, Courtly pairs you with a legally qualified U.S. officiant.

‍3. Payment and Confirmation

Complete payment for your chosen wedding package and await the confirmation email from Courtly. Explore comprehensive information on available packages and add-ons in our Pricing Page.

‍4. Celebrate Online

Tie the knot online from the comfort of your home or any location with a reliable internet connection. The ceremony typically lasts around 15 minutes.

Upon completion, receive a digital copy of your U.S. marriage certificate instantly, with a printed copy delivered within 1 to 2 weeks. Download your digital marriage license shortly after the wedding for your records.

Registration of online marriages in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia requires an Apostille for the legal registration of overseas marriages. Without it, you and your spouse won't be recognized as a married couple, causing potential issues in various aspects of daily life.

Where to Obtain an Apostille for Saudi Arabia

To get an apostille, contact the Secretary of State's office in the state where your marriage certificate was issued. They are the designated authorities for issuing Apostilles. Follow their instructions for submission, and upon approval, a separate Apostille page will be attached to your certificate. If you get married through Courtly, you can include an apostille certificate in your package.

Requirements for Apostille on a U.S. Marriage Certificate

Ensure your marriage certificate contains the full names of both spouses, the date and place of the marriage, the signature of the officiating public official, and the official seal or stamp of the issuing authority.

Additional Saudi Arabian Marriage Registration Requirements

Apart from Apostille, two essential requirements include:

• Saudi Arabian Sponsor's Consent: If your spouse is a Saudi national, their written consent is required. Otherwise, sponsorship from a Saudi family member is necessary.
• Saudi Culture Course & Interview: Mandatory for foreign spouses, covering Saudi customs, rules, and societal norms.

After completing the Saudi Arabia marriage registration process:

• Update your visa status to reflect your marriage.
• Replace your old Saudi national ID card with an updated one listing your marital status.
• Notify your embassy in Saudi Arabia about your international marriage.

Note: Courtly cannot and does not provide legal advice in the areas of marriage law. Please contact the officials in your jurisdiction or an immigration or family law attorney to determine the legal status of your remote appearance wedding and any additional steps or documents you may need for recognition.

Apostille certification through Courtly

An apostille is a unique certificate issued by either the Secretary of State or the Lieutenant Governor, facilitating the recognition and acceptance of a legal document from one country to another. Securing an apostille for your marriage certificate authenticates it as a legally binding and genuine document, adhering to the standards established by The Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. This ensures its acknowledgment in countries that are parties to the convention.

Courtly provides the option to acquire an apostille certification for your marriage certificate. It's essential to be aware that the process of obtaining an apostille and dispatching it to Saudi Arabia after the online ceremony typically spans 15 to 30 business days. This certification reinforces the legality and authenticity of your marriage certificate, making it valid not only in Saudi Arabia but also in other nations recognizing apostilled documents.

Remaining well-informed about the specific prerequisites and procedures for obtaining an apostille certification within your jurisdiction is advisable. Consultation with Courtly or relevant authorities is recommended to guarantee accurate and current information.

Online Marriage and Immigration

When it comes to how online marriages are treated by immigration officials, it's essential to understand that policies can vary widely. Online marriages through platforms like Courtly result in a valid US marriage certificate issued by Utah County, which is recognized by US immigration officials, provided it complies with federal and state laws. For more on this topic, we recommend reading our article on online marriage acceptance by US immigration authorities.

Outside of the US, the online marriage certificate may be treated differently. While many countries accept marriages performed legally in another country, some immigration officials may view an online marriage as less authentic. Demonstrating the authenticity of your relationship is a key aspect of any spouse visa application.

The acceptance of virtual weddings by international immigration authorities is subject to change and may depend on specific circumstances and jurisdictions. Given the complexities and variations in immigration laws, we strongly recommend consulting with an immigration attorney to get accurate and up-to-date advice tailored to your situation. This ensures you understand the legal status of your online marriage and any additional documentation required for recognition.

Conclusion

The landscape of marriage in Saudi Arabia has evolved to embrace the convenience and accessibility of online ceremonies. Couples now have the option to navigate the marriage process digitally, overcoming traditional barriers. The cultural and legal framework surrounding marriages in Saudi Arabia, as observed from various academic perspectives and firsthand accounts, highlights the significance of innovative approaches, such as online weddings, in adapting to societal changes. 

For couples contemplating marriage in Saudi Arabia, the availability of online wedding services provides a feasible and modern avenue to solemnize their union. This not only aligns with the evolving dynamics of relationships but also reflects a progressive shift in accommodating the diverse needs of couples in the contemporary Saudi Arabian context.