A Complete Guide to Marriage Laws in the UAE for Interfaith Couples

The United Arab Emirates is well-known for its policies, flexible laws, support, soft rules and regulations. The government has laid stress upon tolerance, diversity, and liberation utmost. Henceforth, they welcome individuals from various nations, countries, and faiths. Almost 85% of the population here from other countries. UAE government makes sure that everyone must be treated with justice. Marriage is a blissful matrimony. The UAE has specific legal provisions associated with marriage. It is important for individuals to properly understand the legalities, laws, and regulations.

Marriage is defined as a legal contract in different societies of the world. Besides, it also establishes a stable family. The bride must give her consent for the marriage. Therefore, the approval of the bride is important. Secondly, both the parties including a man and woman must be residents of UAE. At least one of the parties must have a residence visa in DUBAI. However, tourists can get married in ABU DHABI without a residence VISA.

A pre-marital screening certificate is essential. It must be obtained from a public healthcare facility, the foreigners, have the option to enter into civil marriages in UAE. According to the law, they can marry decently. The terms and conditions for a valid civil marriage may include the following:

• Both the man and woman should meet the given criteria. Both, spouses must be having at least 21 years age. The marriage should not violate the prohibited degrees of marriage.
• The spouses should provide their approval. The consent is presented before the jury or judge. Spouses need to sign up for the disclosure form.
• There is a proper procedure for Contracting a Civil Marriage in the UAE. The whole procedure is outlined in the Civil Personal Status Law.
• For the foreigners, they need to apply for a specified form. The foreigners can sign the forms to contract a civil marriage in the UAE. before marriage. No requirement for a medical examination certificate before marriage.
• In the case of any previous marital relationships, it should be disclosed adequately. Additionally, they also disclose information regarding the date of divorce and proof of the non-existence of any current marriage.
• The judge will verify the conditions that are met.  The marriage is ratified. Besides, the contract is registered in a designated register.
• Sharia Marriage is valid for Muslims in country. The Muslin citizens and Muslim expatriates can easily choose to conclude their marriage under Sharia principles as well. It is applicable only when both the groom and bride are Muslims. The couple needs to be Muslims.
• In this case, if the groom is Muslim, and the bride is from “Ahl Al Kitaab” (People of the Book) then, the marriage can be solemnized under the sharia law.
• Most recently, there have been changes to the family laws to facilitate the non-Muslims in the country. It is called Non-Muslim Family Law. It will be effective early in 2023.
• Marriages can be contracted in various ways in the Emirates. It depends upon several factors which may include residence, faith, and citizenship.
• This recent development provides a more streamlined legal framework for non-Muslim couples that reside in the UAE. The UAE remains committed to providing a clear and systematic legal path to couples who belong to diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and nations.
• Besides, the Emirates continues to evolve its family laws to facilitate the residents in the country. It has taken the way towards inclusivity and tolerance towards other cultures, religions, and backgrounds.