Obtaining a Muslim civil marriage certificate in Abu Dhabi has been made easier by the introduction of a new law enacted to regulate marriage matters based on civil and non-religious principles. This 2024 guide simplifies the process into clear, straightforward steps and conditions for any couple, resident or visitor, that will help you understand the legal requirements to ensure your marriage is legally recognized and religiously respected.
Let’s talk about how you can have a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi that is not only legal but also respectful of cultural and religious values.
Legality of Civil Marriage for Muslims in Abu Dhabi
Civil marriage is legal in Abu Dhabi regardless of the religion or nationality of the couple who wants to get married, except for UAE citizens who are Muslims. Unlike a marriage which depends on strict Islamic procedures, such as a pre-marital screening test, also known as a medical test, or the wife’s consent from her guardian, this type of marriage is governed by secular laws.
Muslim couples may marry at Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) or even in their own house with an authorized religious clerk. The marriage will be registered with authorities, and if so desired, ceremonies can be carried out according to religion.
Who Is Eligible for a Muslim Civil Marriage?
According to Abu Dhabi Law No. 14/2021, there are some prerequisites to be met before getting married in Abu Dhabi. In order to contract a civil marriage, the following conditions shall be met:
- The spouses shall not be less than 18 years old. Their age shall be verified by virtue of any official document issued by the state of their nationality.
- Both spouses shall explicitly give their consent to the marriage before the Authentication Judge, and shall prove that there is no legal impediment that prevents such marriage.
- Both spouses shall sign the Declaration Form.
- Marriage shall not be established between siblings, or with children, grandchildren, or uncles.
- Any other conditions prescribed in a decision of the Chairman.
Requirements for a Muslim Civil Court Marriage in Abu Dhabi
The following are some of the documents needed to have a civil court marriage in Abu Dhabi:
- Passport or valid ID.
- Proof of residence.
- A divorce or annulment certificate (if applicable).
- Two male witnesses for the ceremony.
Civil vs. Shariah Marriages in Abu Dhabi: Key Differences
The civil marriage process differs from traditional Shariah marriages. Here’s a comparison of the two:
| Aspect | Civil Marriage | Shariah Marriage |
| Legal Framework | Governed by Civil Marriage Law No. 14 of 2021 | Governed by Shariah Law |
| Eligibility | Open to all nationalities and religions | Primarily for Muslims; non-Muslims can marry under Shariah if they convert |
| Guardian Approval | Not required | Required for the bride |
| Consent | Both parties must give explicit consent | Both parties must give consent, but guardian’s approval is also needed for the bride |
| Age Requirement | Both parties must be at least 18 years old | Generally, the bride must be at least 18 years old |
| Medical Test | Not required | Required |
| Witnesses | Not mandatory | Two male Muslim witnesses required |
| Interreligious Marriage | Permitted | Restricted; Muslim men can marry “People of the Book” (Christians or Jews), but Muslim women cannot marry non-Muslims |
| Marriage Contract | Signed before a civil judge | Signed before a religious authority |
| Divorce | Governed by civil laws and procedures | Governed by Shariah principles and procedures |
| Inheritance | Governed by civil laws | Governed by Shariah inheritance laws |
| Custody of Children | Determined by civil court based on the best interest of the child | Determined by Shariah principles |
Why Opt for a Muslim Civil Marriage?
Although Shariah marriages are widely allowed and practiced in the UAE, there are many advantages to a Muslim civil marriage:
- For one, this can ensure international legal recognition—extremely important for traveling or living elsewhere.
- In a civil marriage, several administrative procedures are simplified, including visa applications and the release of legal documents.
- More importantly, it avoids rather lengthy and complicated procedures of premarital medical check-ups and traditional marriage ceremonies.
Steps to Perform a Civil Marriage with a Nikah Ceremony
It is also possible to carry out the Nikah ceremony with a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi. The following few steps are vital to both legalize the marriage and secure approval for religious purposes:
- Nikah Ceremony: Start with the Nikah, which is an Islamic marriage ceremony. This could be done at the mosque or before an authorized cleric. Make sure you get a marriage certificate from this process.
- Legalization of Marriage Certificate: It is necessary to get the marriage certificate attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE. A marriage certificate without such attestation will not be considered legal.
- Documents: Collect the relevant documents, including the passport, identity card, and the divorce/annulment certificate, if any.
- Book a Civil Marriage Appointment: Schedule an appointment for a civil marriage at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) and book it online from their website.
- Complete the Civil Marriage Process: Attend the appointment to complete the civil marriage procedure. It’s just the signing of the marriage contract in the presence of a judge or other authorized representative.
- Receive the Civil Marriage Certificate: Upon completing the civil marriage, you will be issued a civil marriage certificate that lawfully declares your marriage in Abu Dhabi.
Streamlining your Abu Dhabi Marriage Process
Seeking a Muslim civil marriage in Abu Dhabi presents a hassle-free and straightforward method for couples seeking legal and religious recognition of their union. Dubai Court Marriage makes your process easier, from documentation up to court registration.
If you need to simplify your wedding or want an uncomplicated experience, we have customized packages for your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can a Muslim marry a non-Muslim within the UAE?
Yes, within the UAE, it is possible for a Muslim man to marry a woman of another religion, such as a Christian or Jewish woman. However, Muslim women are not allowed to marry outside Islam, unless the man becomes a Muslim. However, civil marriage law now allows civil marriages in Abu Dhabi for people of any nationality or religion, with the exception of Muslim UAE nationals.
Q2. Do you have to reside in the UAE to get married?
No, you do not have to be a resident of the UAE to get married there. You can even get married if you are coming on a tourist visa. However, you would have to fill out an application for marriage and prepare all supporting documents, such as a passport and proof of your current marital status. It is a process in which you must forward such documents for review and approval.
Q3. Is civil marriage the same thing as Nikah?
No, civil marriage and Nikah are not the same. Nikah is an Islamic marriage ceremony acknowledged in Islamic countries like the UAE. Civil marriage, on the other hand, is performed by a government authority, following secular, non-religious procedures. A civil marriage is for those who do not practice religious rituals or prefer a non-religious ceremony.
Dubai Court Marriage will ensure that you have a smooth and worry-free marriage in Abu Dhabi. Be it Nikah or a civil wedding, we’ll help you make your special day legally and religiously recognized.
For more information on civil marriage, contact us today!
){kind=link}