Marriage Laws in Dubai: What You Need to Know Before Saying “I Do”

Planning a wedding in Dubai? You’re not just picking a venue – you also have to follow the local rules. The good news is the process is pretty clear once you know the basics. Below you’ll find the most common questions about who can marry, what paperwork is required, and how to register the union.

Who Can Get Married in Dubai?

Both Emirati citizens and foreign residents are allowed to marry in Dubai, but the route you take depends on your nationality. Emiratis usually have a religious ceremony through an Islamic court, while expatriates can choose a civil ceremony at the Dubai Courts or a religious ceremony at their embassy’s recognized church or temple. Same‑sex couples are not legally recognized, and polygamy is only permitted for Muslim men under strict conditions.

Key Documents and Age Requirements

The legal age for marriage is 18 for both men and women. If either partner is under 21, the father’s consent is needed; under 18 requires a court order. Required documents include a valid passport, residency visa, Emirates ID, birth certificate (translated into Arabic), a certificate of no‑marriage (or divorce decree if previously married), and a medical fitness report. All documents must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE embassy of the issuing country.

Once you have the paperwork, you’ll submit it to the Dubai Courts’ Marriage Section or to your embassy’s marriage office, depending on the ceremony you chose. The fee ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 AED, and the process usually takes 5‑10 business days if everything is in order.

Steps to Register Your Marriage

1. Gather Documents: Collect passports, visas, birth certificates, and the certificate of no‑marriage. Get each document translated and attested.

2. Medical Examination: Both parties must undergo a health check at an authorized clinic. The report confirms you’re free from contagious diseases.

3. Submit Application: File the attested paperwork at the Dubai Courts or your embassy. Pay the registration fee and schedule the ceremony date.

4. Attend the Ceremony: Whether it’s a civil court marriage or a religious service, you’ll need two witnesses (for civil marriages) and the officiant’s signature.

5. Collect the Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, the court issues an official marriage certificate. You can request an Arabic translation if you need it for other UAE paperwork.

Remember, the marriage certificate is the legal proof you’ll need for residency applications, changing your name, or adding a spouse to your health insurance.

Special Situations You Might Encounter

If one partner is a single female expatriate, you’ll need a No‑Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer. For divorces, the previous marriage must be officially dissolved before you can register a new one. And if you’re from a country that doesn’t recognize polygamy, the extra marriage won’t be considered legal back home, even if it’s approved in Dubai.

Finally, always double‑check the latest requirements on the Dubai Courts website or with your embassy. Rules can shift, especially around public holidays and during Ramadan.

With the right paperwork and a clear timeline, getting married in Dubai can be smooth and stress‑free. Follow these steps, keep copies of everything, and you’ll be able to celebrate your big day without a legal hiccup.