Marriage Procedures in Dubai: What You Need to Know

Marriage in Dubai, particularly for expatriates and residents of different religions, involves understanding specific legal requirements and procedures. The UAE follows Sharia Law, which regulates marriage and relationships in the country. Whether you are a Muslim planning an Islamic marriage or a non-Muslim seeking a non-Islamic marriage, it’s crucial to comprehend the rules and regulations to ensure a legal and smooth wedding process in Dubai. Here, we provide answers to frequently asked questions about marriage procedures in Dubai.

General Conditions for Marriage in Dubai

To get married in Dubai, you should meet the following criteria:

• Consent from the bride.
• Either the husband, wife, or the wife’s guardian must possess a UAE residence visa in Dubai (or both parties if residing in other emirates).
• A pre-marital medical screening certificate from recognized healthcare facilities within the UAE.

Marriage Procedures for Muslims in Dubai

Q1. What is an Islamic marriage in the UAE?

An Islamic marriage in the UAE involves either:

• Both the groom and bride being Muslims, or
• The groom being Muslim and the bride being Non-Muslim.

Note: A Muslim woman is allowed to marry a non-Muslim man if he follows Islam before their marriage.

Q2. Are polygamous marriages allowed in the UAE?

Yes, under UAE law, Muslim men are allowed to practice polygamy, provided they ensure equal treatment and support for all their wives.

Q3. What are the necessary legal conditions for Islamic marriages in Dubai?

For Muslim marriages in Dubai, consider the following:

1. Registering the Marriage Contract: The marriage contract should be officially registered in a Sharia court.
2. Age Requirements: Both parties involved in the marriage must be at least 18 years old according to the Islamic Hijri calendar. If one or both parties are younger, they must obtain the judge’s approval.
3. Age Compatibility: The age of one spouse should not be more than twice that of the other spouse without the judge’s approval.
4. Premarital Screening Certificate: Both parties should provide a premarital screening certificate to ensure their physical health and compatibility.
5. Physical Presence: The couple must be physically present during the marriage contract proceedings.
6. Presence of Witnesses: There should be the presence of the bride’s father or his proxy, along with two male Muslim witnesses, to validate the marriage.
7. Guardian’s Consent: A woman seeking marriage must obtain the consent of her guardian. In the absence of her father, the closest male guardian, such as an elder brother, should provide consent.
8. Proof of Marital Status: If the individuals have been previously married, divorced, or widowed, they must provide documented proof of their current marital status.
9. If the bride is Muslim and her father is not, she should obtain a ‘No Objection’ letter from her embassy or consulate to confirm her consent for the marriage.

Marriage Procedures for Non-Muslims in Dubai

Q1. How do non-Muslim expatriates get married in Dubai?

Non-Muslim expatriates in Dubai must follow the laws of their home country. Both spouses should have valid visas, and medical examinations are required if one is on a visit visa. Other legal requirements are the same as for general marriages in Dubai.

Q2. Where can non-Muslims in the UAE conclude their marriage formalities?

Non-Muslims in the UAE can conclude their marriage formalities at either:

• The embassy or consulate of their country in the UAE.
• A temple or a church according to their religion.

Q3. Are there any specific requirements for non-Muslims to marry in the UAE?

Some countries may require their citizens to file an application of intention to marry at their embassy or consulate in the UAE. It is advisable to seek legal advice for any specific requirements and proceed accordingly.

Q4. Is there a need to register the marriage in the embassies of both partners in the UAE?

Yes, the marriage must also be registered in the embassies of both partners in the UAE.

Marriage Procedures for Emiratis in Dubai

Q1: What is the maximum dowry limit for UAE nationals, and how is it structured?

UAE nationals have a maximum dowry limit of AED 50,000, which includes an initial payment of AED 20,000.

Q2: Are there any specific requirements for national males who are members of certain government departments and wish to marry expatriates?

Yes, Male citizens of the nation who serve in the Armed Forces or are employed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Police, and wish to marry foreigners, are required to seek explicit authorization from their respective employers.

Q3: Are there additional conditions for Ajman nationals if they intend to marry women from countries outside the GCC?

Yes, individuals who are nationals of Ajman are obliged to secure approval from the Sharia Court of Ajman if they intend to marry women from countries outside the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Q4. What are the rules for Emirati women who marry foreign nationals?

When an Emirati woman desires to marry a non- Emirati male.

• Consent from parents or guardians is necessary.
• If working in the Armed Forces, a permit from the employer is required.
• Her nationality should not have been obtained by dependency.

Q5. What conditions must the prospective groom meet when marrying an Emirati woman?

The eligibility criteria include:

• Possessing a valid residency visa in the UAE.
• Not being stateless.
• Obtaining a certificate of good conduct issued by the UAE.
• If non-Muslim, the individual must convert to Islam and provide evidence of the conversion.

Q6. What are the eligibility criteria for the Marriage Fund grant in the UAE?

To be eligible for the Marriage Fund grant in the UAE, the following conditions apply:

• Both the groom and the bride must hold UAE citizenship.
• The groom must be at least 21 years old, while the bride must be at least 18 years old.
• It must be the groom’s initial marriage, with exceptions made for widows.
• The combined net monthly income should not exceed AED 25,000, excluding pension and housing allowances.

Q7. What are the prerequisites for individuals from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and residents of other Islamic nations living in Dubai?

GCC nationals and citizens from other Islamic countries who plan to marry someone of a different nationality are required to:

• Seek authorization from their respective governments.
• Yemeni women, in particular, need to secure approval from the Yemeni government through their embassy or consulate.

Seek Legal Advice from Marriage Lawyers at Dubai Court Marriage

If you are facing the complexities of marriage in Dubai, whether it’s an Islamic or non-Islamic union, seeking legal assistance from marriage lawyers at Dubai Court Marriage can be invaluable. Experienced marriage lawyers can guide you through the legal requirements, documentation, and procedures, ensuring that your marriage process in the UAE is smooth and compliant with UAE laws. Marriage Lawyers’ expertise can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure that your marriage journey in Dubai is as seamless as possible.