General Information
What is required by the UAE for a legal wedding?
The main requirement for marriage is that both parties are residents of the UAE. Each party should produce a birth certificate and a certificate of marital status, which have to be appropriately attested – either in the applicant’s home country (by the respective foreign ministry and the UAE consulate) or in the UAE (by the applicant’s consulate and the UAE Foreign Ministry).
Is The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal a destination wedding resort?
Most definitely! However, there is a limitation on obtaining a legal marriage license. Our Wedding Specialist can assist you with creating a memorable Symbolic Ceremony, whilst applying for the marriage license in your home country.
What do I need to know before contacting the resort?
You should know the estimated number of guests, a date, and an approximate budget for your event. If possible, choose a few alternate dates in case your first choice is not available.
How far in advance should I reserve the date?
Winter dates should be booked at least a year in advance. Summer dates are typically available with less notice. Please contact the hotel for more information about available dates.
What is the average cost per person for food and beverage?
Please get in touch with our Wedding Specialist for customized pricing. Please be aware that our menu items and pricing are subject to change and are guaranteed 90 days in advance. Your final menu pricing will be based on your actual selections.
Are there minimum requirements for a reception?
A food and beverage minimum revenue commitment will be applied, and in some cases, a set-up fee is required for a private wedding reception. Minimums and set-up fees will vary depending on the venue, the number of guests, day and time of the event.
What are the deposits and when are they due?
Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. A 25% deposit is due upon receipt of a signed contract. Three months prior to your event, 50% of the estimated charges are due. One month prior to your event, 100% of the estimated charges are due.
When do I need to tell The Ritz-Carlton how many guests will attend my wedding?
The catering department must be notified of the exact number of guests attending a function at least 72 working hours prior to the start of the event. This will be considered a guarantee, for which you will be charged, even if fewer guests attend the function.
Do the bride and groom get a complimentary room for the wedding night?
Depending on the wedding package, the bride and groom may be receiving a one-night complimentary stay
Are there special room rates for wedding guests?
For family and friends of the wedding party, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal will be happy to quote preferential rates for the night of the event. A group rate may be applicable for weddings booking more than 10 guest rooms.
What local laws affect events at the resort?
Outdoor music is to be concluded by 10.30 p.m.
What weather can I expect for my wedding?
Mostly sunny, with year-round temperatures ranging from 20 degrees to 45 degrees.
Services
What does The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal provide for weddings and receptions?
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal provides all food and beverages, tables and chairs, gold table linens, silverware and glasses, a dance floor, and staging for your event.
What are the responsibilities of a Wedding Specialist?
Your Wedding Specialist will:
- Act as the on-site liaison between your wedding coordinator and the hotel operations staff
- Monitor the status of your room block (if applicable)
- Recommend Special Event Professionals to provide wedding coordination, music, floral, photography, ceremony officiant, invitations, and amenities
- Act as a menu consultant for all food and beverage selections
- Create an estimate of charges outlining your financial commitments and deposit schedules
- Create a floor plan and provide the hotel with your seating arrangements
- Oversee the ceremony and reception room(s) set-up, food preparation, and other hotel operations
- Ensure a seamless transition to the Banquet Captain on the day of your event
- Review banquet checks for accuracy, prior to the completion of your final bill
- Create a timeline for your entire wedding day
- Coordinate your ceremony rehearsal and the actual ceremony
- Coordinate with vendors and Hotel Banquet Captain to ensure the timeliness of your event.
Are there any guidelines or requirements for using outside vendors?
Yes, there are guidelines for outside vendors, all vendors will be required to sign a Ritz-Carlton vendor agreement form.
Are there any preferred event production companies that you can suggest?
Absolutely, our Wedding Specialist would be happy to share our registered and certified companies.
Culinary
How do I choose the food for my reception?
Whether your reception is an intimate dinner or a lavish gathering, we offer a range of cuisines. From hors d’oeuvres and champagne cocktails to optional stations and gourmet buffets or formal dinners with plated selections and synchronized service, all options are catered. Your wedding specialist will assist you with choosing from our extensive menu.
I/my guests have special dietary needs; what are our options?
We are delighted to offer a selection of vegetarian, vegan, and any special cuisines for any dietary need. Please consult with your wedding planner for more details.
Can The Ritz-Carlton provide my wedding cake?
Our pastry chef will ensure your new life together gets off to a sweet start. Choose from our imaginative wedding cakes and patisseries or customize your own creative temptations.
What local laws affect events at the resort?
Outdoor music is to be concluded by 10.30 p.m.
What weather can I expect for my wedding?
Mostly sunny, with year-round temperatures ranging from 20 degrees to 45 degrees.