Dubai is famous for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture and is very popular among both expats and tourists. And what’s more, it’s also one of the greatest places to get married. If you plan to tie the knot in Dubai, then here is what you need to know to proceed with the court marriage.
Understanding Court Marriages in Dubai
Court marriages in Dubai are conducted by a judge or an official of the court. These marriages are recognized as valid in the UAE and many other countries. There are two kinds of court marriages:
- For Muslim Couples: It is conducted under the principles of Sharia or Islamic law.
- For Non-Muslim Couples: Procedures vary depending on the couple’s home countries.
Requirements for a Court Marriage—Common for both Muslim and Non-Muslim Couples
- Legal Age: The bride and groom should both be at least 18 years old.
- Valid Identification: Both the bride and groom should have an original passport and a copy for the same.
- Proof of Residency: One of the partners should have a residency visa for Dubai.
- Witness presence: Two witnesses must be available and present on the marriage date and should have valid IDs and passports.
- Marriage Certificate: The certificate of marital status from the home country’s embassy or consulate in Dubai (most often needs to be attested by UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
- Fitness Certificate: A premarital screening test from any UAE-approved medical facility.
- Marriage fees: There are associated application processing and marriage certificate fees.
Additional Requirements for Muslim Couples
- Bride’s Guardian: The bride’s father or a male guardian with proof of guardianship should be present to give consent.
- Sharia Law: The contract of marriage shall be governed under the principles of Sharia.
Considerations for Non-Muslim Couples
- Home Country Marriage Laws: Marriage laws differ from country to country. This means that you should also get in touch with your embassy or consulate here in Dubai for details about any additional requirements by your home country for a valid marriage.
- Attestation of Marriage Certificate: The Marriage Certificate issued in Dubai may also be attested by the embassy or consulate of the country to which you belong, for it to be applicable or valid there.
The Marriage Process: Step-by-Step
Now that you understand the legalities, let’s consider the practical steps to get married through the Dubai Courts:
- Submission of Online Application: First, an online application must be submitted through the official website of the Dubai Courts. Learn to navigate the website and have all necessary documents scanned, in order to assist the upload process.
- Document Preparation: Collect all the required documents listed above. Ensure translation into Arabic, if necessary, by a court-approved translator and have them attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs for documents issued outside of the UAE.
- Payment of fees: Pay the designated fees for marriage application and issuance of certificates on the website of Dubai Courts.
- Official Marriage Certificate: Attend the Dubai court on the fixed date with your partner, all the documents, and two witnesses. The judge or duly authorized officer will perform the marriage ceremony, and once all formalities are completed, you will be handed your official marriage certificate.
Important Notes to Remember
- Planning is Key: Initiating the process well ahead of time is important, as in the case of document attestation from one’s home country, it may take longer. That needs to be factored into your timeline.
- Consult Professional Legal Advice: One may also consider consulting a lawyer who deals in family law in the UAE. They can give you personalized advice in regard to your case and also help you through any eventual intricacies of the process.
- Not Recognized by Same-Sex Marriage: Dubai does not recognize and legalize same-sex marriage.
By carefully following this procedure and staying abreast of any new information available on the website of the Dubai Courts, you will be able to have a seamless and successful court marriage in Dubai. Remember, this special moment is the beginning of your journey together, and Dubai makes it uniquely lawful and memorable.
Civil Marriage Requirements in Dubai
While the above requirements would still apply for both Muslim and Non-Muslim couples, the following are some additional requirements for civil marriages in Dubai:
- Both parties must be non-Muslim.
- At least one party must be a resident of Dubai. The other party does not need to be a resident but must be legally eligible to marry.
- The age to marry is 21 years for both parties.
Additional Notes for Civil Marriages
- Unlike Muslim marriages, the bride’s father or guardian is not needed.
- The marriage ceremony itself is a civil ceremony conducted by a judge or accredited official. There are no religious elements involved.
Getting Married in Dubai? We Can Help!
Dubai wedding planning is exciting, and court procedures are complicated, but don’t get worried. Dubai Court Marriage Lawyers are here to make your big day a breeze!
Our friendly Dubai marriage experts will take you through:
- All the Paperwork: We’ll take care of collecting, translating, and stamping your documents so you don’t need to stress.
- The Online Application: We’ll walk you through the website and ensure that everything is filled out perfectly.
- Marriage Laws: We’ll explain the marriage laws for you, whether you are Muslim or not, so you understand what is going on.
- Peace of Mind: With us beside you, you will be able to relax and enjoy your special day!
Contact Dubai Court Marriage Lawyers today! Let us make the procedure of your Dubai court marriage simple and worry-free.
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