26M Indian in UAE: Unsure Whether to Marry Now or Move Abroad First - Need Advice
Assalamualaikum everyone, I’m a 26-year-old Indian guy working in supply chain/analytics in the UAE. Alhamdulillah things are stable, but I’m stuck on a big life choice and would appreciate honest advice. On one hand, I want to get married soon. The fitna here can be tough, and I’m trying to keep things halal and focused. My goal with marriage is simple: find a practicing Muslimah with similar values and build a calm, steady life together. On the other hand, I’m planning to move abroad - maybe Europe for a master’s, or to Canada/US for better job prospects and clearer routes to permanent residency. I also think there’s a chance I could meet a good, practicing sister there and start a life while settling into a new country. The dilemma is about timing. Should I get married here first and then relocate with my spouse? Or should I move first, get settled career- and residency-wise, and then look for marriage? To complicate things, I’ve had very few interactions with women outside work, so the whole marriage-seeking process feels a bit intimidating. If anyone living in Canada/US/Europe - expats, students, married people - has gone through this, I’d love to hear your experience. Is it realistic to plan marriage while preparing to move? Do people run into big problems with visas, finances, or adjusting after marriage? Any practical tips on timelines, expectations, or how to approach this with Islamic values in mind would be really helpful. Trying to make a decision that’s best for both my dunya and akhirah. JazakAllah khair and may Allah guide us all.