The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to a diverse population of expats and locals, making it a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions. Whether you’re an expat living in the UAE or a visitor planning a destination wedding, getting married in the UAE can be a unique experience. However, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and procedures before tying the knot.
Marriage in the UAE is a legally binding contract, and the rules governing the process depend on factors such as nationality, religion, and residency status. This article provides a step-by-step guide to understanding how marriage works in the UAE, covering both civil and religious marriage options for residents and expats.
1. Legal Framework for Marriage in the UAE
Marriage in the UAE is regulated under Federal Law No. 28 of 2005, which governs personal status, family law, and marriage contracts. The UAE recognizes both religious and civil marriages, and the process for each may vary depending on the couple’s nationality and religious background.
The UAE is an Islamic country, and Sharia law plays a significant role in personal matters, including marriage for Muslim couples. For non-Muslims, civil marriages are allowed under certain conditions, especially for expatriates.
2. Marriage for Muslim Couples in the UAE
Muslim marriages in the UAE are governed by Sharia law, which dictates specific rules and procedures. Both UAE nationals and expat Muslims must follow the Islamic marriage process, known as Nikah.
Key Requirements for Muslim Marriages:
- Consent of Both Parties: Both the bride and groom must consent to the marriage.
- Wali (Guardian): The bride must have a male guardian (wali) present, usually her father or closest male relative, to give her away in marriage.
- Two Muslim Male Witnesses: The marriage must be witnessed by at least two Muslim male witnesses.
- Marriage Contract (Nikah): The couple must sign a marriage contract, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party.
- Dowry (Mahr): A dowry, which is a gift from the groom to the bride, is a fundamental part of the marriage contract.
The marriage is typically registered with the Sharia court. Once registered, the couple is legally recognized as husband and wife under UAE law.
3. Marriage for Non-Muslim Couples in the UAE
For non-Muslim couples residing in the UAE, the marriage process depends largely on their nationality and religious affiliations. The UAE allows non-Muslim expats to marry through their respective embassies, churches, or other religious institutions.
Civil Marriage for Non-Muslims
In a significant development, Abu Dhabi introduced civil marriage for non-Muslims under Law No. 14 of 2021. This allows expat couples, regardless of religion, to have a civil marriage without following religious procedures. The civil marriage law applies to couples who do not wish to marry under religious law or are from different religious backgrounds.
Steps for a Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi:
- Submit an Application: Non-Muslim couples must apply for a civil marriage through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s online portal or in person.
- Marriage Contract: The marriage contract is signed in front of a civil registrar, confirming the couple’s consent.
- Documentation: Both parties must provide valid IDs, passports, and proof of legal residency in the UAE.
- Marriage Certificate: Once the process is complete, the couple will receive a civil marriage certificate.
This law makes the UAE one of the few countries in the Middle East to offer civil marriage for non-Muslim expats.
4. Marriage for Mixed-Faith Couples
For couples of mixed faiths—where one partner is Muslim and the other is of a different religion—the marriage process must comply with Sharia law if conducted in the UAE. According to UAE law:
- A Muslim man can marry a non-Muslim woman, provided she is from the People of the Book (Christianity or Judaism).
- A Muslim woman cannot marry a non-Muslim man unless he converts to Islam.
Mixed-faith couples are encouraged to seek guidance from legal professionals or their respective embassies to navigate the marriage process effectively.
5. Requirements for Getting Married in the UAE
Regardless of religion, all couples must meet certain legal requirements before they can marry in the UAE. The following documentation is typically required:
- Passports of both parties
- Valid UAE residency visas (for residents)
- Premarital medical certificate: A mandatory health screening must be completed to check for genetic disorders, STDs, and other health conditions.
- Divorce or death certificate (if either party was previously married)
The premarital screening can be done at any UAE government hospital, and the marriage will not be valid without this certificate.
6. Embassies and Churches for Expatriates
For non-Muslim expatriates, the most common way to get married in the UAE is through their embassy or church. Different countries and religious denominations may have specific procedures for conducting weddings abroad, so it is crucial to contact your embassy or religious institution well in advance.
Steps for Getting Married at an Embassy or Church:
- Contact Your Embassy or Church: Inquire about the process, fees, and required documents.
- Schedule a Marriage Ceremony: Depending on the availability, schedule your wedding date with the embassy or church.
- Witnesses: Some embassies or churches may require witnesses, so check their specific requirements.
Once the marriage is conducted, the embassy or church will provide an official marriage certificate, which must then be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs to be recognized legally.
7. Marriage for Tourists in the UAE
While most marriages in the UAE involve residents, it is possible for tourists to get married in the country. However, this depends largely on their nationality and whether they can meet the legal requirements, including providing the necessary documentation from their home country.
Tourists interested in marrying in the UAE should consult their embassy and UAE legal authorities to ensure the marriage is recognized both in the UAE and in their home country.
8. Marriage Costs in the UAE
The costs of getting married in the UAE can vary widely depending on whether you opt for a religious or civil ceremony, where the ceremony takes place, and whether legal services are required.
Typical costs may include:
- Premarital medical exam: AED 250 to AED 500
- Marriage registration: Depending on the venue (court, church, or embassy)
- Legal fees: If you require a lawyer to assist with paperwork
Conclusion: Understanding the UAE Marriage Process
Getting married in the UAE involves a clear set of rules and procedures that vary based on your nationality, religion, and residency status. Whether you are planning a religious or civil ceremony, it’s essential to gather the necessary documents, understand local laws, and fulfill legal obligations to ensure your marriage is recognized both in the UAE and your home country.
By following the right steps and ensuring you meet the legal requirements, your UAE wedding can be a seamless and memorable experience.
