Civil Marriage in UAE: A 2025 Legal Guide for Foreigners and Expats

If you’re living in Dubai or anywhere in the United Arab Emirates, you already know this region is booming. It’s not just about the economy. The UAE is now a top place for civil marriage and expat marriage. Many foreigners meet their partners here and choose to take the next step — getting married in the UAE.

However, the civil marriage process in UAE can be tricky. Laws vary depending on your nationality, religion, and the emirate where you live. Still, with the right plan, marriage in UAE is 100% possible.

This guide explains everything. From legal documents and timelines to cultural tips and a comparison with other countries. If you’re planning a civil marriage in UAE or just looking for a get married Dubai guide, this post will walk you through every step.

Why Is the UAE a Popular Place for Foreigners to Get Married?

The United Arab Emirates has become a melting pot of cultures, with people from more than 200 nationalities living and working here. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, the UAE offers modern infrastructure, organized court systems, and now even civil marriage options for non-Muslims.

That being said, the UAE marriage law 2025 comes with its own set of challenges, especially for expats and interfaith couples. That’s why understanding the legal marriage process beforehand is essential.

Civil Marriage in the UAE: How to Get Married in UAE

Step 1: Visit Your Embassy or Religious Authority

Before starting any paperwork, you must consult your embassy or consulate. Requirements for getting married vary depending on your nationality and religion.

For religious weddings, your church, mosque, or temple might have its own rules or documentation you need to submit first. For civil weddings, your embassy will inform you about the legal requirements and the documents you must provide.

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNIM)

This document proves that you are legally single and eligible to marry. Here’s what you need to know:

• Where to get it: Your country’s embassy in the UAE or from your home country
  
• Who needs it: Both partners, unless already married or divorced
  
• Important notes:
  
  • Must be issued within the last 3 months
    
  • Needs to be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
    
  • If divorced, you must provide your original divorce certificate, duly attested
    

Step 3: Gather All Required Documents

Here’s a quick checklist of documents you may need for Dubai marriage registration or a civil wedding in Abu Dhabi:

• Valid passport copies of both partners
  
• UAE residency visa (at least one partner must be a resident)
  
• Emirates ID of resident partner
  
• Birth certificates
  
• CNIM or Singleness Certificate
  
• Original divorce/death certificate (if previously married)
  
• Passport-size photographs (minimum four)
  
• Medical certificate from an authorized UAE health center
  
• Proof of entry stamp (if one or both are visitors)
  
• Completed application form from the court
  
• Letter of consent from bride’s father or guardian (or in-person presence)
  

Note: For Muslim marriages, you will need two Muslim witnesses with a valid Emirates ID. Non-Muslim brides should have witnesses of the same nationality.

Step 4: Get Medical Clearance

You and your partner must undergo a premarital medical screening at a government-approved health center. This is a mandatory requirement under UAE law. The test screens for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and genetic conditions.

Step 5: Attend the Court Ceremony

Once your documents are ready and approved, you can schedule your court appointment. Here’s what to expect:

• The court will verify your documents
  
• Witnesses and guardian (if required) must be present
  
• You’ll take your vows in front of the judge
  
• You’ll receive a marriage certificate, usually the same day or within 2–3 working days
  

If you’re considering a Muslim court marriage, click ‘Muslim court marriage” for step-by-step details specific to Islamic marriages.

Always consult a professional wedding planner before starting your civil marriage process in the UAE. 

Estimated Timeline for Civil Wedding in UAE

Civil Marriage UAE vs. Other Countries

While the foreigner wedding UAE process takes longer, it’s ideal for couples who live and work in the UAE and want their wedding to be recognized locally.

Cultural Considerations

• In the UAE, family involvement is still valued, especially for women. In many emirates, the bride’s father or guardian is expected to give consent.
  
• Islamic law applies to Muslim couples, while non-Muslims can marry under civil law (especially in Abu Dhabi).
  
• Mixed-faith marriages may be permitted depending on the religion and nationality of the couple. Some embassies may not issue a CNIM for interfaith couples.
  

Most Popular Places for Marriage Registration in the UAE

• Dubai Court – Convenient and commonly used by expats
  
• Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court – Ideal for non-Muslim civil ceremonies
  
• Sharjah and Ajman Courts – Traditional setup with religious options
  
• Ras Al Khaimah & Fujairah – Quieter emirates, shorter waiting times

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Getting Married in the UAE?

The short answer is: Yes, if you’re prepared. While the process can feel overwhelming, especially for foreigners and expat couples, it’s manageable when broken down into steps. The key is early planning, proper documentation, and understanding your specific situation.

If you want your marriage to be recognized locally and internationally, getting married in the United Arab Emirates — especially in Dubai or Abu Dhabi — is absolutely possible.

Don’t forget to explore all options based on your religion, nationality, and urgency. And if you’re looking for Muslim court marriage details, this guideline, “ Muslim court marriages,” can help simplify the journey.