German doctor marries Pakistani man after connecting online

MANDI BAHAUDDIN: A 26-year-old German doctor has traveled to Pakistan to marry a young local man, in a story that has attracted attention online.

Muhammad Akmal, 22, from the village of Difaar in Mandi Bahauddin, met 26-year-old German doctor Selma online and, after months of communication, persuaded her to come to Pakistan and marry him.

In an interview with MY News TV, Akmal said their connection began through the online game Roblox, where they exchanged messages regularly for nearly five months. Selma later decided to visit Pakistan to formalize their relationship. Akmal said he first proposed her and after a few days’ delay, she traveled to Pakistan.

Selma said she was initially surprised by village life and daily chores but was happy to be with her husband. She described learning tasks such as washing clothes and utensils, and baking bread, as new experiences that she gradually adapted to.

Akmal said the marriage had full support from both families, with expenses totaling around 4.5 million Pakistani rupees ($13,500), including travel and the wedding ceremony.

Selma holds dual German and Bosnian passports and intends to settle in Pakistan with Akmal. She is also learning Punjabi and Urdu to improve communication. Akmal said their life after marriage is joyful and that they live together with love and respect.

The couple’s story has drawn praise on social media, where users lauded their simplicity, sincerity, and affection. The wedding has been seen as an example of cross-cultural marriage and the success of a friendship that began online.