The legal system of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a blend of Sharia laws and civil laws. Therefore, Muslims and non-Muslims find it easier to live in the UAE rather than anywhere else. Investors and entrepreneurs have found lucrative opportunities to make their businesses profitable.

The UAE marriage laws are flexible for Muslims and non-Muslims. Previously, Muslims could get married under the Sharia law, whereas non-Muslims would follow the civil law marriage in the UAE. As time has passed, the UAE government is becoming flexible for its residents. In the latest Personal Status reform, Muslims can legalize their marriage under civil law. It provides them with the comfort of independence, where they are not required to follow religious practices.

Effect of New Personal Status Reform

The Muslim couples are more than happy to validate their marriage in the civil courts. They enjoy personal freedom. Moreover, the marriage is conducted in accordance with international standards. Together, they can understand the registration process and avoid making any mistakes.

Legal Implications of Civil Marriage in the UAE

Whether you are a resident or an expatriate, civil laws for marriage are the same for everyone in Abu Dhabi. However, other emirates, including Dubai, may have different procedures for marriage, but it depends on the residency status of the individual. The marriage contract is transparent and based on the grounds of equality for both spouses.

Requirements of Civil Marriage in the UAE

If you are planning to get married in the UAE, it is important to seek the consent of your partner for marriage. If they agree, then only you should legally proceed with marriage registration. Importantly, you must be 18 years of age or older to exercise your right to marriage. In case of second marriage, divorce, or the death of the previous partner, the individuals must submit relevant documents as evidence.

Besides these requirements, the civil marriage laws are simple, and documents are related to the current marital status.

Procedure to Register Civil Marriage in the UAE 

The process of registering a civil marriage in the UAE is simple. Once you have the consent from your partner to get married, you can begin the process formally.

Documents

The individuals who are tying the knot should upload the documents for marriage on the verified portal. It includes their ID cards, proof of current marital status, and residency in the UAE. They must submit the application form online.

Schedule Appointment

After submitting the documents online, the individuals can make an appointment. Together, they will make one appointment from one account. At the time of the appointment, the marriage counsellor will confirm the documents. Once the individuals have received the confirmation of documents, they will sign the marriage contract in the presence of the officer.
There are no religious implications in the process. The process is transparent and follows the UAE laws.  

Civil Marriage in Contrast to Islamic Marriage

Marriage laws could be different in other countries, but Islamic states follow the Muslim marriage process.

Islamic Marriage
Under a Muslim nuptial, both sides need two witnesses for validation. The bride has a guardian from whom the groom’s side takes the consent. However, the bride’s consent is equally important.

Civil Marriage
There is no religious background in the UAE civil marriages. In fact, the law focuses on equality and financial independence for both spouses. Couples who want freedom throughout their marriage can opt for civil marriage, as there is nothing wrong with it.
Whatever marriage laws the couple follows, the legal procedures are simple and transparent.

Enhance Cross-Cultural Personal Relationships
The UAE is populated with people from all over the world. There is an influx of foreigners, and financial transactions are whopping, too. Nevertheless, the UAE has focused on building relations with other countries to foster positive international relations in the world economy.
Cross-Cultural Marriages

The UAE is open to cross-cultural marriages. People live with different traditions and customs. In these circumstances, civil marriage ensures inclusivity and openness towards personal commitments. For many couples, coming to the UAE has been a good experience for them as they could interact with people from other places and might get interested in marriage.

The UAE’s culture will remain intact when adults will be getting married more, rather than staying as a couple in the same house. People cannot stay together in one place in the UAE if they are not married or a family yet.

Documents for Cross-Cultural Marriage in the UAE

If you are applying for a civil marriage, there is a list of documents that need to be submitted to the marriage courts or online. Documents include: passports, evidence of marital status, and Emirates ID. If there is a missing document or an expired one, there would be a delay in the marriage registration. Hence, the couple should re-check their documents before submission.

Should You Seek Legal Assistance for Marriage?
Getting married in the UAE is simple, yet you will need a lawyer to assist you in the case.

Responsible Lawyer
Getting guidance on marriage laws in the UAE is essential because it is different from a Muslim marriage. A civil marriage offers freedom and independence to spouses in terms of finances and mutual agreements. Though civil marriage is a good option for Muslims and non-Muslims, one must always learn the rules of civil marriage before they opt for it.

Law Firms in Dubai for Marriage Consultancy
A marriage consultant could be a lawyer who has made marriage contracts in the past. They can draft the agreement, which is based on mutual consent. The agreement would mention all the terms and conditions of marriage, including the eligibility criteria of age and consent.

Summary
As Muslims, we may hesitate to do a civil marriage in the UAE, but there is nothing wrong with it. If you are ever in doubt, always contact a lawyer who can guide you about the marriage laws based on civil and Islamic laws. The legal professional would also guide you through the application process with documentation to validate it as per the Islamic laws.