Court Marriage in Dubai: Complete Procedure, Documents, Fees & Requirements
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Court marriage in Dubai is one of the most reliable and government-recognised ways to get legally married in the UAE.
Getting legally married in the UAE is now more structured and accessible than ever before. For couples looking for a fast and government-recognised wedding, court marriage in Dubai is one of the most reliable options.
Whether you are a resident, tourist, or a mixed-nationality couple, understanding the court marriage procedure in Dubai, the documents required, eligibility rules, and the appointment process is essential before starting your application.
This guide explains everything — step by step.
Who Can Do a Court Marriage in Dubai?
One of the most common questions couples ask is whether they are eligible for a Dubai court marriage.
You can apply if you are:
- UAE residents
- Tourists
- Muslim couples
- Non-Muslim couples (under the civil marriage law)
- Mixed nationality couples
Your eligibility depends on the type of marriage you choose:
- Sharia court marriage
- Civil court marriage
Each has slightly different requirements.
Dubai Court Marriage Requirements
Before starting your Dubai court marriage application, you must meet these legal conditions:
Legal Age
Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
Consent of Both Partners
The bride and groom must be physically present on the wedding day.
Pre-marital Screening
Required for some types of marriages for UAE residents.
Witnesses
Witness requirements depend on the court and marriage type.
Documents Required for Court Marriage in Dubai
The documents required for court marriage in Dubai may vary based on nationality and religion, but generally include:
- Passport copies of both partners
- Emirates ID (for residents)
- Visa copy
- Birth certificate
- Proof of marital status
- Divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if widowed)
- Pre-marital medical test (if required)
All foreign documents must be legally translated into Arabic and attested.
Step-by-Step Court Marriage Procedure in Dubai
Here is the complete Dubai court marriage procedure:
1. Application Submission
Submit your Dubai court marriage application through the court portal or authorised service provider.
2. Document Verification
All documents are reviewed and approved.
3. Court Marriage Appointment Booking
You receive a wedding date.
4. Marriage Ceremony
The legal marriage takes place at the Dubai Courts.
5. Marriage Certificate Issuance
You receive your official Dubai court marriage certificate.
Common Reasons for Court Marriage Rejection in Dubai
Many couples are surprised to learn that most delays in a Dubai court marriage application happen due to documentation errors rather than eligibility issues. One of the most common reasons is submitting documents that are not properly attested or not translated into Arabic by a certified legal translator. Even small spelling differences in names across passports, visas, and birth certificates can lead to rejection or rescheduling.
Another frequent issue is applying under the wrong marriage category. The legal requirements for civil marriage and Sharia marriage are different, and selecting the incorrect process can slow down the approval. Incomplete medical screening (for resident couples), absence of required witnesses, or not meeting the legal age requirement can also result in delays.
This is why most couples prefer professional guidance verifying the correct marriage type, preparing documents in advance, and booking the right court appointment reduces the chances of rejection and ensures a faster legal wedding.
Dubai Court Marriage Fees
Most couples choose customised Dubai court marriage packages to keep the process simple and avoid handling legal steps on their own.
- Type of marriage (civil or Sharia)
- Nationality of the couple
- Translation and attestation requirements
Additional costs may include:
- Legal translation
- Attestation
- Express appointment booking
Is Court Marriage in Dubai Valid Internationally?
A marriage completed at the Dubai Courts is legally recognised and can be used for all official purposes once the marriage certificate is issued. Couples can use the certificate for spouse visa applications, name change procedures, and family sponsorship. For use outside the UAE, the certificate may need to go through attestation depending on the destination country.
Understanding the post-marriage legal process is just as important as the wedding itself, especially for couples planning relocation or immigration.How to Book a Court Marriage Appointment in Dubai
You can start the Dubai court marriage online registration through:
- Dubai Courts portal
- Legal service centres
- Authorised wedding specialists
Booking correctly the first time is important to avoid delays or rejection.
Dubai Court Marriage for Foreigners
Court marriage in Dubai for foreigners is possible, but the process depends on:
- Nationality
- Religion
- Residency status
This is why many couples choose professional assistance to handle:
- Document verification
- Legal translation
- Appointment booking
How Long Does Court Marriage Take in Dubai?
The timeline for a court marriage in Dubai depends on the type of marriage, the nationality of the couple, and how quickly the required documents are prepared. For couples with complete and legally attested paperwork, the process can move much faster than expected. The initial application review, document verification, and appointment scheduling are the stages that usually take the most time. Any missing or incorrectly translated document can delay approval.
For UAE residents completing all formalities in advance, the court marriage procedure can be scheduled within a few working days after approval. In some cases, express timelines are possible when the documentation is clear and eligibility requirements are met. Planning ahead, completing the medical test (if applicable), and ensuring all documents are legally translated into Arabic helps avoid unnecessary delays and makes the process significantly smoother. The timeline for marriage in Dubai court is:
- Standard process → a few weeks
- Express cases → faster depending on approval
Delays usually happen due to incorrect documentation.
Dubai Court Marriage vs Getting Married Abroad
While court marriage in Dubai is a strong legal option, some couples prefer getting married abroad because it is faster and involves fewer legal restrictions. This is why many couples explore Georgia marriage for GCC residents as a simpler and quicker alternative.
- Fewer document restrictions
- Faster processing
- No nationality limitations
If you want a quicker and simpler legal route, you can also explore
👉 Georgia marriage for GCC residents
as an alternative option.
How Easy Wedding Helps With Dubai Court Marriage
Our team manages the complete Dubai court marriage registration process for you:
- Eligibility check based on nationality
- Document preparation
- Legal translation
- Application submission
- Court appointment booking
- Marriage certificate support
So instead of dealing with multiple government steps, you get a clear and fast-tracked process.
Speak with our team to start your Dubai court marriage application with expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Court Marriage in Dubai
Can tourists do a court marriage in Dubai?
Yes, tourists can complete a court marriage in Dubai if they meet the legal eligibility requirements and submit the correct documents. The exact process depends on nationality, religion, and the type of marriage (civil or Sharia). In most cases, tourists must ensure that their documents are legally attested and translated into Arabic before the court appointment to avoid delays.
How much does court marriage cost in Dubai?
The cost of a court marriage in Dubai varies depending on the type of marriage, government court fees, document translation, and attestation requirements. While the official court fee is fixed, the total expense can change based on nationality and the number of legal formalities involved. Couples who prepare their paperwork correctly the first time usually complete the process faster and avoid additional rescheduling costs.
Is a pre-marital medical test required?
A pre-marital medical test is mandatory for UAE residents in certain types of marriages. This screening must be completed at an authorised medical centre before the court marriage appointment. However, the requirement may differ for tourists and for civil marriages, depending on the legal category under which the couple applies.
Can foreigners get married in Dubai court?
Yes, foreigners can legally get married at the Dubai Courts if they meet the eligibility criteria and provide the required documentation. The process varies based on residency status, nationality, and religion. Proper document attestation and selecting the correct marriage type are the most important steps for a smooth application.
How do I book a court marriage appointment in Dubai?
You can book a court marriage appointment in Dubai through the Dubai Courts portal or with the help of an authorised wedding service provider. The application must be submitted with complete and verified documents before a wedding date is issued. Any missing or incorrect paperwork can delay the appointment.
