Marriage Requirements & Registration
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
Marriage in the UAE has specific legal requirements that depend on whether the couple is Muslim or non-Muslim:
- Muslim marriages: Must follow the Personal Status Law. Both parties must consent freely, and a male guardian (wali) is required for the bride. The marriage contract must be witnessed by two male witnesses and registered with a Sharia court.
- Minimum age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. A judge may allow marriage at a younger age in exceptional cases, but this is rare.
- Mahr (dowry): The groom must provide a mahr to the bride, which is her legal right. The amount is agreed upon in the marriage contract.
- Medical fitness: Both parties must undergo a premarital medical screening for genetic and communicable diseases before the marriage can be registered.
- Non-Muslim marriages: Non-Muslims can marry under their home country's laws at their embassy or consulate. Since 2022, Abu Dhabi also offers a civil marriage option through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD).
When does it apply?
- You are getting married in the UAE or registering a marriage performed abroad.
- At least one spouse is a UAE resident.
- Muslim marriages follow the Personal Status Law regardless of nationality.
- Non-Muslims may choose between their home country's law or the UAE civil marriage option (Abu Dhabi).
What should you do?
- Complete the premarital screening — this is mandatory and available at government health centres.
- Gather your documents: passport copies, Emirates ID, residence visa, and no-objection certificate from your embassy (if applicable).
- For Muslim marriages, register through the Sharia court in the emirate where you live.
- For civil marriages in Abu Dhabi, apply through the ADJD — both parties must appear in person.
- Keep a certified copy of your marriage certificate and have it attested if you plan to use it abroad.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not skip the premarital screening — the court will not register a marriage without the medical certificate.
- Do not assume an unregistered religious ceremony is legally valid — you must register the marriage with a UAE court or ADJD to have legal rights.
- Do not sign a marriage contract you do not understand — have it translated if necessary and review all terms, especially the mahr and conditions.
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