Marriage registration in the UAE in 2025 involves navigating different legal frameworks depending on whether you are a Muslim or non-Muslim resident.
This article explains how to register marriage in UAE based on two key laws: Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2022 for civil marriages and Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2024 for personal status law.
Both laws ensure the legal recognition of marriages and establish clear guidelines for the registration process.
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How to Register Marriage in UAE legal framework
Registering a marriage in the UAE requires understanding and following specific legal procedures established by the government.
The UAE has introduced two main legal frameworks for marriage registration:
- Civil Marriages under Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2022 – For non-Muslim residents, this law permits the registration of civil marriages in the United Arab Emirates.
- Marriages under Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2024 – This law addresses personal status matters for both Muslim and non-Muslim residents, covering general marriage regulations under Sharia law.
The following sections outline the specific steps for registering a marriage under these laws, ensuring that couples comply with the legal framework and that the UAE authorities recognize their union.
Registering Civil Marriages
Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2022 allows non-Muslim couples in the UAE to register their marriage under civil law.
This landmark law introduced procedures for a legal marriage contract, separate from Sharia law, for non-Muslim residents.
Steps for how to register marriage in UAE Civil Personal Status:
- Check Eligibility: Both parties must be non-Muslim and at least 21 years old.
- Submit Application: Couples must submit a marriage application to the competent court, including documents like passports, Emirates IDs, and proof of single status.
- Fill Out Disclosure Form: Both individuals must sign a disclosure form regarding their marital status, ensuring there are no legal obstacles to the marriage.
- Attend Interview (if required): A court-appointed official may conduct an interview to confirm the mutual consent of both parties.
- Review and Sign Marriage Contract: Once all documents are verified and the interview is completed, the couple signs the marriage contract in the presence of the court judge.
- Marriage Registration: The judge authenticates and records the marriage contract in the marriage register.
- Obtain Marriage Certificate: The couple will receive the official marriage certificate from the court.
Learn about Marriage Certificate Attestation in Dubai.
Registering Marriages under Personal Status Law
Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2024 (UAE Personal Status Law) provides a unified framework for marriage registration in the UAE.
This law governs personal status issues for both Muslim and non-Muslim residents, addressing marriage, divorce, custody, and other matters related to family law.
Steps for Marriage Registration under the Personal Status Law:
- Eligibility Check: To marry, both individuals must be at least 18 years old. Those under 18 need court approval, and both must be mentally competent.
- Submit Application: Couples must submit their application to the relevant court, accompanied by documents such as identification, proof of single status, and proof of residency.
- Consent and Guardianship: Both parties must agree to the terms through a definite offer and acceptance. If the wife is Muslim, a guardian is required unless her nationality laws state otherwise.
- Witnesses: Two witnesses, who are legally competent and of age, must be present during the signing of the marriage contract.
- Medical Clearance: Medical reports are required to ensure both parties are free from communicable diseases, a standard requirement in the UAE marriage registration process.
- Signing the Marriage Contract: Once all documents are reviewed and accepted, both parties will sign the marriage contract in the presence of the court official. This ensures the marriage is legally binding.
- Marriage Certificate Issuance: After the marriage contract is validated, the court will issue the official marriage certificate. This certificate serves as proof of the legal union.
Legal Services Related to Marriage Registrations in UAE
Our law firm in UAE specializes in providing expert legal assistance to individuals seeking to register their marriage in the UAE.
Our Marriage lawyers in Dubai offer guidance through every step of the process to ensure a legally valid marriage registration.
Our Services Include:
- Legal Consultation: Offering expert advice on marriage registration procedures under the UAE’s civil and personal status laws.
- Document Preparation: Assisting clients with the preparation and verification of necessary documents for marriage registration.
- Dispute Resolution: Providing mediation and legal support in case of any disputes that arise during the marriage registration process.
- Tailored Legal Solutions: We customize our services to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements for marriage registration.
FAQs about Marriage Registration in UAE
Conclusion on how to register marriage in UAE:
Registering a marriage in the UAE involves following specific legal procedures.
Non-Muslim couples can opt for a civil marriage under Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2022.
Muslim couples are required to follow the regulations established in Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2024, which is in accordance with Sharia law.
It is important to understand the steps involved to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized.
For expert guidance and assistance throughout the marriage registration process, our law firm is here to help.
Contact our law firm in UAE for expert help. Click the Whatsapp icon below.
A law graduate and legal writer focusing on UAE law, he became known for his ability to clarify complex legal concepts through his writings. His work simplifies the intricacies of the legal landscape in the Emirates, helping both locals and expatriates navigate their legal concerns.
