Couples wishing to tie the knot can now do so conveniently in the UAE, thanks to the introduction of remote wedding services. This modern approach requires the submission of specific documents and adherence to certain criteria. The UAE courts have simplified the matrimonial process, enabling couples to say their vows remotely.
Dubai Laws, since October 2023, have introduced the “Remote Civil Marriage” and “Digital Attestation services”. Now, couples can transition from engagement to marriage with just a few clicks before receiving their digital documentation. The service is specially designed for non-Muslim residents and encompasses provision of remote marriage contract, digital signatures of papers as well as issuance of digital marriage certificates. The technique is present-day, which eases the process for couples in need of getting married when physical presence may not be possible.
Conditions for Online Marriage in UAE:
Couples must meet certain requirements imposed by the government to get on this digital path towards matrimony.
The following are the basic conditions for online marriage in UAE:
- Marital Status: They both have to be unmarried at the time when they are applying.
- Religion: Both must be non-Muslims.
- Residency Requirement: One of them has to live in Dubai with an emirates ID card.
- Age requirement: The age of two people must not be below twenty-one years old.
You should know – Marriage Requirements for Tourists and Expats in UAE
Requirements for Online Marriage in UAE
To go through a hassle-free online marriage certificate process in the UAE, then these are the key documents to get ready with:
- Attested Affidavit of Single Status: This is a document that signifies that an individual is free to marry and it can only be acquired from the embassy of your home country.
- Legalized Certificates: Any document issued outside the United Arab Emirates has to be authenticated by concerned authorities.
- Translation: other than Arabic any other language used in these documents should be given its meaning in Arabic by an accredited legal translations firm registered with the United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Justice.
- File Format: All those papers shall be stored and presented as PDF files.
- Attestation: These documents are required to be authenticated by MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) at their home country as well as UAE Embassy and MOFAIC (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation) in the UAE itself.
UAE Marriage Process Online
The UAE’s online marriage registration service was designed as a fast track:
- Online Request Submission– The couple must start by making an electronic application on this particular website attaching all necessary supporting documents.
- Contacting Accredited Centers: After sending a request, applicants can call or visit authorized centers for further needs or clarifications.
- Fees Payment: Once the application is confirmed and approved through the platform, individuals can make payment using electronic services.
- Automated Contract Stages: The Dubai Courts have introduced a system that deals with some contract stages like authorization, authentication and rectification hence making everything simple for applicants.
- Receipt of Approved Electronic Contract: After completion and approval, married couples will receive an endorsed electronic marriage certificate confirming their union according to UAE law.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of Dubai, has also embraced digitalization in its marriage consular services by allowing videoconference marriage contracts. Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has enabled residents to file for an e-marriage contract, get approvals and make payments online through their matrimonial service via video conferencing. Remote booking of appointments for signing a contract is also possible as it can be done via video-conferencing technology.
You may want to know: Getting married in the UAE: What are the documents needed?
Remote Civil Marriage by Dubai Courts
Dubai Courts have innovated the marriage process by introducing a computerized system for contract stages. For the Applicants it is an easy experience as follows:
- Communication with Accredited Centers: The applicants can contact accredited centers, via telephone or coming physically. These centers help in making the marriage contract.
- Electronic Request Submission: The applicants send their marriage contract requests using the electronic means. System takes care of authorizations, certifications and amendments.
- Payment of Requisite Fees: Online payment of required fees by applicants.
- Receipt of Approved Electronic Contract: After processing, the electronic approved marriage contracts are given to applicants.
‘I Do’ via Video Conference in Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has taken digital matrimonial services a step further. Residents in Abu Dhabi can now apply for marriage contracts electronically. Here’s how it works:
- Online Application Process:
- Residents use the UAE Pass to access the digital service.
- They apply for the marriage contract electronically and await approval.
- Payment procedures are also completed online.
- Remote Contract Signing:
- To make it convenient, individuals can book an appointment for contract signing via video-conference technology (using WebEx).
- The ADJD showcased this video conferencing software at Gitex Global 2023 in Dubai.
- Legally Binding Digital Signatures:
- The final marriage contract document is received electronically.
- The digital signatures of both parties are legally binding.
Want to get married in the UAE but can’t make it to court? With Dubai Court Marriage, you can have an online marriage and have your marriage legally recognized without visiting the place. Our marriage attorneys will assist you with all the necessary paperwork and registration procedures throughout this process. Contact us now and begin the journey into a seamless future with your spouse.
