Civil Marriage Law in the UAE
Key Takeaways:
- Civil marriage in the UAE offers a legal union, governed by comprehensive laws.
- Abu Dhabi and Dubai provide accessible civil marriage services, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
- Understanding the legalities, procedures, and benefits of civil marriage helps couples navigate their journey with confidence.
Introduction to Civil Marriage in the UAE
In the United Arab Emirates, a place rich with diverse cultures and traditions, marriage options cater to everyone. Marking a regional first in 2021, Abu Dhabi introduced a pioneering law that facilitates the legal union of a man and woman through civil marriage, regardless of their religious beliefs or nationalities. This legislation permits both Muslims and non-Muslims to enter into marriage as a civil contract, governed by secular regulations.
This article delves into the nuances of civil marriage in the UAE, focusing on the legal frameworks, procedures, and benefits in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, ensuring readers gain a thorough understanding of their options and requirements.
What is Civil Marriage?
Defining Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has made a significant leap in its legal system by introducing Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021, which caters to Personal Status for Foreigners. In Abu Dhabi, civil marriage is accessible to individuals of any nationality or religion, with the sole exception being UAE nationals who are Muslim. Additionally, this significant legislation enables expat residents, tourists, and visitors to legally marry within the Emirate through a civil marriage process. It’s also noteworthy that tourists have the opportunity to marry at the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court.
This type of marriage in Abu Dhabi is recognized legally as a union between two individuals, established through a civil contract and not bound by religious rituals. This law, which is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s forward-thinking approach, allows people of different nationalities and faiths to come together in marriage, highlighting the UAE’s dedication to celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity in its legal practices.
Eligibility Criteria for the Recent Civil Marriage Legislation
Who Can Marry Under This Law?
The law permits any foreigner, irrespective of their nationality, to marry in Abu Dhabi. This inclusivity ensures that the emirate’s diverse population, including expatriates and international residents, can avail themselves of civil marriage services, fostering a sense of belonging and legal recognition.
Legalities for Entering into a Civil Marriage
Understanding the Legal Framework
To formalize a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi under the forward-thinking Law No. 14 of 2021, couples must adhere to several key criteria, ensuring the process is respectful, inclusive, and tailored to expats.
- Mutual Consent: Both partners must willingly express their consent by completing a declaration form in the judge’s presence, underscoring the importance of mutual agreement in civil marriage in the UAE.
- Legal Age: Individuals must be at least 18 years old to enter into a civil marriage, ensuring that both parties are of legal age and capable of making informed decisions.
- No Close Relations: The law stipulates that the parties must not be closely related, maintaining clear boundaries and legal integrity in family structures.
- Marital Status: Couples must not be currently married to someone else, with required documentation to prove their marital status, ensuring transparency and legal compliance.
- Financial Agreement: While not prescribing a specific financial framework, the law empowers couples to create their own agreement, detailing the rights and responsibilities during the marriage and in case of a divorce.
- Paternity Acknowledgement: The law provides modern solutions for paternity acknowledgment, either through marriage or recognized paternity acknowledgment, reflecting the UAE’s progressive stance on family law.
Advantages of Opting for a Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi
Choosing a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi offers several benefits, including:
- legal recognition
- Marriage following secular regulations, irrespective of religious beliefs or nationality.
- a straightforward application process
- no requirement for pre-marital screenings.
These options are particularly appealing for those seeking a simple yet legally binding union.
Application and Required Paperwork for Civil Marriage
Navigating the Application Process
Applying for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is a streamlined process. Couples can submit their applications online or at designated centers, choosing between regular and express services based on their timeline and needs.
Regular Service:
- Fee: AED 300
- Processing Time: Within 10 working days
- Ceremony Scheduling: Date and time assigned based on court availability
Express Service:
- Fee: AED 2,500
- Processing Time: Within 1 working day
- Ceremony Scheduling: Couples choose their preferred time and date, subject to the Court’s operating hours
Documents Required:
When preparing for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, couples need to gather a few essential documents to ensure their union is legally recognized.
- Marriage Application Form (through the ADJD website)
- A copy of both parties’ passport or Emirates ID (if UAE resident)
- Proof of Previous Marriage Dissolution
- Pre-nuptial Agreement (Optional)
Finalizing Marriage Procedures for Civil Marriage
The application process for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is designed to be straightforward and accommodating. Couples have the convenience of applying online via the Interactive Case Registration (ICR) service on the Judicial Department-Abu Dhabi’s website or they can choose to apply in person at the Family Court building in Zayed Sports City. Once the application is processed and your marriage ceremony date and time are confirmed, you will receive an email notification from the court.
It’s crucial to bring a physical copy of your identification (Emirates ID or Passport) when you attend the ceremony at the ADJD main court building.
Finalizing the Union
The marriage ceremony in Abu Dhabi is a formal yet flexible process, allowing couples to personalize their experience. The issuance of the marriage certificate marks the legal recognition of the union, providing couples with the rights and responsibilities of married life under UAE law.
Attesting Your Civil Marriage Certificate
Once your marriage certificate is issued after your civil marriage ceremony, technically, there’s nothing more you need to do. The certificate itself is a legal acknowledgment of your union. However, a common step many couples opt for is to have their marriage certificate attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This attestation adds an extra layer of official recognition, which can be particularly useful for various bureaucratic processes or if you’re planning to live or travel abroad.
For detailed guidance on how to get this done, it’s a good idea to check out the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website. They provide all the necessary information to help you through the attestation process, ensuring your civil marriage is recognized and respected both in the UAE and internationally.
How Dubai Facilitates Civil Marriage for Non-Muslims
Dubai’s Civil Marriage Service
Dubai’s introduction of a 24-hour civil marriage service for non-Muslim residents is a testament to the emirate’s commitment to accommodating its diverse population. This service aligns with Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022, ensuring that non-Muslim residents have the opportunity to marry quickly and efficiently.
For residents in Dubai looking to enter into a civil marriage, there are specific requirements and conditions that align with the city’s commitment to inclusivity and legal clarity
- Both parties must be non-Muslims
- At least one party must be a Dubai resident.
- The minimum age is 21 years for both parties.
- Presence of the couple or legally authorized representatives required.
- Documentation of Identity and Marital Status
Marriage Certificate Issuance Fee: AED 220 (This does not include the Marriage Official’s fee in the Dubai civil marriage service)
Document Conditions:
- Format and Translation: All documents submitted must be in PDF format. For documents not originally in Arabic, certified Arabic translations are required, ensuring clarity and consistency in the legal process.
- International Document Certification: Documents issued outside the UAE must undergo a certification process involving the relevant Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ensuring that they are recognized and valid for use in Dubai’s civil marriage process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the civil marriage ceremony conducted?
The civil marriage ceremony is held at the Civil Family Court within the ADJD main court building, adjacent to Zayed Sports City.
3. Is it necessary to have a witness for the marriage ceremony?
While it is not mandatory to bring a witness, you are welcome to have family and friends attend the ceremony.
4. Can we exchange rings and recite personal vows during the ceremony?
Yes, you can exchange rings and say your own vows, though it’s optional. Please inform the team upon arrival if you wish to do so.
5. How can I select the date and time for the ceremony?
With the express service, you can choose the ceremony date and time, subject to the court’s operational hours. For the standard service, the court will attempt to accommodate your preference, but it depends on availability.
6. What are the costs associated with a civil marriage?
The standard fee for a civil marriage is 300 AED. For expedited processing or to choose a specific date, the express marriage service costs 2,500 AED.
7. How do I submit my marriage agreement?
While not obligatory, if you choose to have a marriage agreement, submit it alongside your civil marriage application as a supporting document. The notarization fee for the marriage agreement is 950 AED.
9. When are marriage ceremonies available?
Ceremonies are scheduled as follows:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am – 1:30 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Conclusion
For non-Muslim expatriates, foreigners, tourists, and those not residing permanently in the region, the civil marriage laws in the UAE offer a legally sanctioned and culturally considerate pathway to formalize their unions. This option underlines the UAE’s progressive legal framework, providing a dignified and straightforward method for couples to marry.
By understanding and utilizing these laws and procedures, couples can confidently and clearly embark on their marital journey, assured by the support and recognition provided by the UAE’s inclusive and forward-thinking approach to civil marriage.
For those interested in exploring alternative marital frameworks, gaining insights into Sharia law offers a comprehensive understanding of matrimonial traditions and legalities in the region.