Question 1

What is the difference between a prenup and a postnup?

Accepted Answer

A prenup is prepared before marriage, while a postnup is made after the couple is already married.

Question 2

Is a prenup required for Abu Dhabi civil marriage?

Accepted Answer

No. It is optional. Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court provides a formal procedure and standard template for couples who choose to authenticate one.

Question 3

How much does an Abu Dhabi prenuptial agreement cost?

Accepted Answer

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department currently lists the civil prenuptial-agreement authentication fee as AED 950.

Question 4

Can an Abu Dhabi prenup be changed later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The standard Abu Dhabi template provides for mutually agreed variations to be reflected in a postnuptial agreement executed by both parties.

Question 5

Does property automatically get divided equally without a prenup?

Accepted Answer

No. Property rights depend on the applicable legal framework, ownership records, contractual arrangements and the circumstances considered by the competent court.

Question 6

Can a prenup decide child custody or child support?

Accepted Answer

Child-related matters remain subject to the applicable family law and the powers of the competent court, so they should not be treated like ordinary property clauses.

Question 7

Can Muslim couples include conditions in their marriage contract?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The current UAE Personal Status Law permits written marriage-contract conditions within specific legal and Sharia limits.

Prenuptial agreements