How Filipinos Can Annul Their Marriages in the Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court

The Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court has been a great attraction to many couples including those who wish to marry or have their marriage ended. This is because many foreigners are now opting for this court especially in matters concerning marriage or its annulment in a legal and clear manner. If you are a Filipino and you are planning to do this, then here is everything that you need to know about the annulment in the Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court. 

What is the Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court?

The Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court is a government institution under the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD). Established under Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021, it decides cases relating to civil marriages and its Effects such as annulments and divorce for non-Muslims. 

Why Do Filipinos Choose Abu Dhabi for Annulment?

It is a fact that those Filipinos working in the UAE have difficulties with the conventional annulment procedures in the Philippines which are time consuming and costly. Abu Dhabi has a faster and clear legal procedure. The UAE has shifted to the modern approach that makes it convenient for the expatriates to seek legal remedies for marital problems.

You may want to know: A complete guide to a Civil Wedding in Dubai for Filipinos

What is Annulment in Abu Dhabi?

An annulment is one of the legal processes through which a marriage is declared void. While divorce is the process of dissolving a marriage that has already taken place. Annulment is the process of declaring a marriage invalid from the beginning. The Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court deals with the annulments of marriages for non-Muslims on certain legal reasons.

Who Can Apply for an Annulment at Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court?

The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court is competent to hear cases relating to personal status, including annulment of marriages, for both nationals and foreigners under specific conditions:

1. Residents: Nationals and foreigners who have a domicile, place of residence, or place of work in Abu Dhabi.
2. Non-Residents: The court can also hear cases filed against a foreigner who does not have a domicile, place of residence, or place of work in Abu Dhabi if:

• The case concerns the annulment or revocation of a marriage.
• The case is filed by a UAE national wife or a wife who has lost UAE nationality, provided either of them is domiciled or residing in Abu Dhabi.

This ensures that a large number of individuals including the expatriates can apply for annulment of their marriages at the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court if they fulfill the set conditions.

What Are the Grounds for Annulment?

The Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court allows several reasons that can lead to annulment:

1. Lack of Consent: If one of the partners forced or was pressured into the marriage.
2. Fraud or Misrepresentation: If fraud or misrepresentation was conducted during the marriage.
3. Incapacity: If one of the partners is physically or mentally incapacitated to be able to take part in the marriage.
4. Pre-existing Marital Status: If one of the partners was married to another person when he or she entered into the marriage.
5. Underage Marriage: If one of the partners was below the legal age of marriage.

What Documents Are Required for Annulment?

To file for annulment, you will need the following documents:

• Marriage certificate (issued by Abu Dhabi Civil Court or other legal authorities).
• Identification documents (passport and Emirates ID).
• Proof of residency or valid UAE visa.
• Evidence supporting your grounds for annulment (e.g., medical reports, affidavits).
• Any other documents requested by the court.

How to File for Annulment in Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court?

• Consult a Legal Expert: Please consult with a licensed marriage lawyer on family matters especially on the laws prevailing in UAE.

1. Prepare Your Documents: Ensure that you produce all the documents that would support your case.
2. Submit an Application: Go to the Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court and present your application for annulment.
3. Attend Court Hearings: This may include having to defend your case in court and, if necessary, witnesses as well as experts.
4. Receive the Court’s Decision: When the court listens to your side of the case, it will deliver a ruling.

Read also : How Filipinos can get married in Dubai

How Long Does the Annulment Process Take?

The duration of the annulment process varies on the complexity of the case. While some cases can be solved within a few months, some may take a while. The Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court is, therefore, efficient in solving cases as it does not take much time.

How Much Does Annulment Cost in Abu Dhabi?

The cost of annulment also differs depending on certain factors such as;

• Court fees
• Legal consultation fees
• Document translation and attestation fees.

The annulments in Abu Dhabi are generally reasonable. It is therefore recommended that one seeks the services of a legal expert to determine the exact costs.

Can Filipinos Get Remarried After Annulment in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, once the annulment is finalized both the parties are allowed to marry again. The annulment certificate which is issued by the Abu Dhabi Civil Marriage Court acts as a proof of the nullified marriage.

Read more about – How to get married in Dubai for Indian and Filipino nationals

What Happens if the Marriage Was Registered in the Philippines?

If the marriage was also registered in the Philippines, there are some steps that you may require to take to ensure that the annulment is done in the Philippines. It is advised to seek the advice of a marriage lawyer in order to know the procedure on how to change your marital status in the Philippines. 

Tips for a Smooth Annulment Process

1. Seek Professional Help: A lawyer can help you with the legal processes that you need to go through and make sure that your case is properly put together.
2. Be Honest: Offer truthful information to the best of your understanding to the court.
3. Stay Organized: Make sure that you arrange all your documents properly and submit them within the right time frame.
4. Be Patient: This process is faster than most of the other systems but it still takes some time to finish the process.

Conclusion

The process of annulment in Abu Dhabi is rather simple. The guidelines on how Filipinos can seek for annulment at the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court are stated above. This is because there are certain steps that have to be taken to avoid certain legal complications in future.

If you are planning to seek annulment or if you require legal advice concerning your civil marriage, our marriage lawyers at Dubai Court Marriage are at your service. Our professional legal team offers full legal services to assist you with the annulment procedure. We invite you to get in touch with us for a first consultation, and be assured that your case will be attended to by experienced hands.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice regarding your situation, it is advisable to consult a marriage lawyer.