Dubai Cremation Service FAQ

• Is cremation allowed in Dubai?

  Yes, cremation is legally permitted in Dubai for non-Muslim residents. Islamic law prohibits cremation for Muslims, so this service is reserved for individuals whose religious or cultural practices allow it.

• Where is the crematorium located in Dubai?

  Dubai has one authorized crematorium, which is located in the Jebel Ali area and is called New Sonapur. It is managed by the Hindu Community and governed by the Dubai Municipality. This facility is well-equipped to handle non-Muslim cremations.

• What are the key legal requirements for cremation in Dubai?

  The process is document-heavy and requires coordination between hospitals, embassies, and local authorities.
  
  Key documents typically include:

  • A certified death certificate.

  • Passport and RESIDENT/TOURIST visa copies of the deceased.

  • An Embassy-issued No Objection Certificate (NOC).

  • Police clearance (especially if the death was not natural or under suspicious circumstances).

  • A cremation permit issued by Dubai Municipality. Families are strongly encouraged to work with experienced providers like Middle East Assistance (MEA) to manage this paperwork and liaise with government offices.

• How long does the cremation process typically take in Dubai?

  On average, the cremation process in Dubai takes 2 to 4 working days. This timeframe depends on the processing of documents and embassy clearances.

• Can family members attend the cremation ceremony?

  Yes, both the Jebel Ali crematorium in Dubai allows close family to be present for final prayers or rituals before cremation. Dubai specifically offers more space and options for religious rites compared to Al Ain. Families can choose to have a religious leader (such as a Hindu pundit, Christian priest, or Buddhist monk) present, and MEA can arrange this based on your preference and tradition.

• What is the average cost of cremation in Dubai?

  The total cremation cost in the UAE, including for services in Dubai, can typically range from AED 9,000 to AED 18,000. This cost generally includes paperwork, transport, and the cremation itself. For many expatriate families, cremation presents a more practical and affordable solution compared to burial.

• Can ashes be repatriated from Dubai or scattered locally?

  Yes, ashes can be repatriated to the home country via air freight. MEA can handle all documentation and packaging needed for international transport. Alternatively, ashes can be scattered locally in a private or symbolic location, such as the sea or desert.

• Are specific religious services accommodated at the Dubai crematorium?

  Yes, the Jebel Ali crematorium accommodates a wide range of faiths and cultural backgrounds for non-Muslim cremations, including Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, or non-religious services. MEA offers full-service cremation in Dubai, including assistance with religious rituals or preferences. For Hindu families, this includes ritual bathing, traditional dressing, chanting of mantras by a Hindu priest, and the use of symbolic materials like ghee, tulsi, and flowers.

• What if the deceased passed away in another emirate (e.g., Abu Dhabi or Sharjah) but the family wants cremation in Dubai?

  MEA provides support throughout the UAE and GCC. If a loved one passes away in another emirate like Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, MEA can handle transport to Dubai’s crematorium and arrange all necessary approvals and local paperwork. Dubai is often chosen by expatriates from other emirates due to its capacity and comprehensive support.

• Why choose a professional cremation service provider like MEA in Dubai?

  Given the complexity of the process, professional help is highly recommended. MEA offers:

  • Over 15 years of experience in funeral and repatriation services.

  • 24/7 multilingual support.

  • Deep relationships with UAE government offices and embassies, ensuring all papers are in order.

  • Logistical assistance, including flight bookings, permits, customs, and transport of the deceased.

  • Compassionate assistance and cultural sensitivity, providing dedicated coordinators to navigate every detail.