Civil marriage is a new and progressive option for non-Muslim couples who want to get married in Abu Dhabi. Regardless of their faith or nationality, a man and a woman can legally unite in a secular manner through a civil marriage. Civil marriage offers many benefits, such as simplicity, convenience, freedom, and diversity. However, it also comes with some challenges and pitfalls that you should be aware of and avoid.
In this article, we will discuss some of the common mistakes that couples make when applying for or having a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Not Checking the Eligibility Criteria
One of the most common mistakes that couples make is not checking the eligibility criteria for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. According to the Civil Marriage Law No. 14 of 2021, the following conditions must be met for a civil marriage:
- The consent of both parties is required
- The minimum age for both parties is 18 years
- The parties must not share a first or second degree kinship
- The parties must not have any other existing spouses
- Either party must not be a UAE citizenship.
If you do not meet these criteria, you cannot apply for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. Therefore, you should check your eligibility before proceeding with the application process.
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Mistake #2: Not Submitting the Required Documents
Another common mistake that couples make is not submitting the required documents with their application. The following documents must be submitted for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi:
- Copies of both parties’ passports
- Copies of both parties’ Emirates IDs (if applicable)
- Proof of previous marriage dissolution (e.g., divorce judgment or death certificate if applicable).
If you fail to submit these documents, your application may be rejected or delayed. It is important that you prepare these documents in advance and submit them online or onsite.
Mistake #3: Not Paying the Fees
A third common mistake that couples make is not paying the fees for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. The standard fee for a civil marriage is 300 AED. However, the express service is available for 2,500 AED if a faster process or a specific date is desired.
A marriage agreement is not mandatory, but it should be submitted with the application as a supporting document if one exists. There is an additional fee of 950 AED for the notarization of the agreement.
If you do not pay the fees, your application may be canceled or postponed. Therefore, you should pay the fees online or onsite as soon as possible.
Mistake #4: Not Scheduling the Ceremony
A fourth common mistake that couples make is not scheduling the ceremony for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. The ceremony takes place at the Civil Family Court in the ADJD main court building, next to Zayed Sports City. You can choose the date and time of the ceremony with the express service, but the standard service is subject to availability. If you do not schedule the ceremony, you may miss the opportunity to have your civil marriage in Abu Dhabi.
Therefore, you should schedule the ceremony online or onsite as soon as possible.
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Mistake #5: Not Following the Rules and Regulations
A fifth common mistake that couples make is not following the rules and regulations for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. There are some dos and don’ts that you should be aware of and respect when having a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. For example:
- Do bring your passport and, if you’re a UAE resident, your Emirates ID to the ceremony.
- Do inform the team if you want to exchange rings or include personal vows in the ceremony.
- Do invite family and friends as witnesses if you wish, but they are not required.
- Don’t wear inappropriate or revealing clothing to the ceremony.
- Don’t bring alcohol or drugs to the ceremony.
- Don’t engage in any public display of affection or intimacy during or after the ceremony.
If you do not follow these rules and regulations, you may face legal consequences or offend the local culture and customs. Therefore, you should follow these rules and regulations and behave respectfully and appropriately.
Mistake #6: Not Seeking Legal Advice Before or After the Marriage
A sixth common mistake that couples make is not seeking legal advice before or after the marriage. Civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is a new concept that may have implications on your personal status, rights, obligations, and inheritance. Therefore, you should consult a qualified marriage lawyer or firm such as Dubai Court Marriage who can advise you on the legal aspects of civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, such as:
- The advantages and disadvantages of civil marriage compared to other forms of marriage
- The impact of civil marriage on your existing wills, contracts, or agreements
- The procedures and requirements for divorce, separation, or annulment of civil marriage
- The laws and regulations governing child custody, alimony, and property division in case of divorce or death
- The recognition and enforcement of civil marriage in other countries or jurisdictions
By seeking legal advice, you can protect your interests and avoid any potential disputes or conflicts that may arise from civil marriage in Abu Dhabi.
In conclusion, Civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is a great option for non-Muslim couples who want to get married in a simple and convenient way. However, it also requires some preparation and caution to avoid common mistakes that may ruin your experience. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can avoid these mistakes and have a successful and memorable civil marriage in Abu Dhabi.
By hiring a marriage lawyer at Dubai court marriage, couples can avoid common mistakes that may cause legal issues or complications in the future and enjoy a successful and memorable civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us.
