There are customs, traditions, and laws related to marriage and the marriage relationship, which may differ from one country to another or from one religion to another, however it is a common cause that marriage is a very important aspect of societal living.
Thus, UAE legislators have thus taken care of defining laws related to marriage that may be applied equally to the Muslim and non-Muslim public.
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Conditions of Marriage According to UAE Law
The law of the United Arab Emirates aims to associate marriage with a contract that allows for the formation of a family and the birth of children.
In order to protect the rights of the spouses and their children, the UAE has permitted all residents and certain visitors to register and finalize their marriage ceremonies in the UAE in accordance with their own nationalities and religious beliefs.
To this end, various laws and regulations prescribing the conditions for the validity of such unions have been promulgated, the most important conditions being:
- Confirmation of the prospective wife’s complete consent without pressure or coercion.
- One or both spouses must have a valid identity card or passport, be Emirati citizens, or hold a valid residence and visa in the UAE. However, the prescriptions in this regard are flexible and it is possible to exclude many cases from the UAE residency requirement, and indeed numerous marriages are registered for visitors to the UAE.
- A certificate confirming the medical fitness of the spouses provided that this certificate is issued by one of the accredited medical centers in the UAE or the UAE Ministry of Health.
Requirements for Marriage in Abu Dhabi Court
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Marriage for All Religions and Nationalities in the UAE
In order to register a marriage in the UAE, one of the spouses must be residing in the Emirates. However as mentioned above, the laws are flexible in this regard and non-residents may request their exemption from this condition.
Furthermore, it is permissible for non-Muslims who are citizens of other countries to marry and register their marriages in the UAE.
Conditions for Marriage Applicable to Muslims and Non-Muslims
The following conditions must be adhered to in order to finalize and register a marriage in the UAE:
- The spouses must be eighteen years or older according to the Hijri calendar. The approval of the court is required in marriages where this condition is not met.
- The husband’s age should not be twice the age of the wife or more. The approval of the court is required in marriages where this condition is not met.
- Provision of a health certificate proving the medical fitness of the spouses. The certificate must be issued by one of the accredited medical centers in the UAE or the UAE Ministry of Health.
- The spouses, the bride’s attorney, the bride’s legal guardian, and two Muslim witnesses must be present at the ceremony.
- The consent of the guardians of the spouses must be provided. This may either be provided by the father or whoever acts on his behalf if the father is deceased.
- In the event that the prospective wife is a non-Muslim, she must provide written evidence of her father’s consent to the marriage or the approval of her country’s embassy or consulate.
- Confirmation that neither of the spouses suffers from genetic blood disorders or contagious diseases.
- If the wife is divorced or widowed, she must present an official document as proof of such.
The marriage contract can be concluded and registered in the Emirati courts or judicial departments across the UAE. Recently, the UAE Government has launched an electronic marriage service. This service aims to save time and effort for the public and makes allowances for, amongst others, the interview of the prospective wife’s guardian electronically.
Also Find More – Marriage Requirements in Dubai for Tourists
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FAQ’s
What is the difference between Muslim and non-Muslim marriage in the UAE?
Muslim marriages are governed by Sharia law, while non-Muslim marriages follow a civil legal system. Each has different legal requirements, procedures, and documentation.
How is a Muslim marriage conducted in the UAE?
Muslim marriages are conducted under Islamic law through courts such as the Sharia Court Dubai. The process requires a guardian (Wali), witnesses, a marriage contract, and premarital medical testing.
How do non-Muslim marriages work in the UAE?
Non-Muslim couples can marry through a civil procedure, usually at the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court. This process does not require a guardian or religious formalities and is generally quicker and simpler.
Are the documentation requirements different?
Yes, Muslim marriages may involve additional religious documents and conditions, while civil marriages typically require passports, visa copies, and proof of marital status with fewer formalities.
Is interfaith marriage allowed in the UAE?
Yes, interfaith marriages are generally allowed under the civil marriage system for non-Muslims. However, Sharia law may impose restrictions depending on the religions of the couple.
Which type of marriage is faster in the UAE?
Civil marriages are usually faster and can often be completed within 24–48 hours. Muslim marriages may take longer due to additional legal and medical requirements.
Are both types of marriages legally valid in the UAE?
Yes, both Muslim and non-Muslim marriages are legally recognized in the UAE, provided they are conducted in accordance with the relevant legal procedures.
