Court Marriage in Abu Dhabi For Expats

If you are an expat in the UAE looking to get married legally, Abu Dhabi court marriage is one of the most efficient and inclusive options. With recent reforms, court marriage in Abu Dhabi has become a top choice for couples from different nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. 

Whether you are planning an expat marriage in Abu Dhabi or looking for fast-track wedding options in the Emirates, this guide explains everything you need. From court marriage procedures in the UAE to comparing Sharia law vs civil union, we cover all requirements for marriage in Abu Dhabi to help you tie the knot smoothly and legally.

Requirements for Court Marriage in Abu Dhabi for Expats

• Allowed for all non-Muslims, including expats, residents, and tourists.
  
• Muslim couples are allowed only if they are not UAE nationals (i.e., Muslim expats can marry here civilly).
  
• Not allowed for Muslim UAE nationals under Abu Dhabi’s civil marriage law.
  
• Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
  
• Must have legal capacity and give free, full consent to marry.
  
• Couples must not be closely related by blood.
  
• Must be unmarried at the time of application:
  
  • Divorce certificate if divorced
    
  • Death certificate if widowed
    
  • Affidavit of single status if never married
    
• Valid passports required (and Emirates IDs if residents).
  
• Foreign documents must be translated to Arabic and attested.
  
• No witnesses or medical tests required.
  
• Optional: Prenuptial agreement (can be registered at court).
  
• Application must be filed via Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) portal or authorized typing centers.
  

Step by Step Process for Court Marriage in Abu Dhabi for Expats

Below is the step-by-step process for court marriage in Abu Dhabi for Expats

1. Prepare Required Documents
   
   • Passports (and Emirates IDs if residents)
     
   • Proof of marital status (e.g., divorce paper, death certificate, or single status affidavit)
     
   • Arabic translation and attestation for foreign documents
     
2. Apply Online
   
   • Visit the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) website
     
   • Create an account using UAE Pass
     
   • Fill out the civil marriage application
     
   • Upload documents
     
3. Choose Service Type
   
   • Standard Service (AED 300): Court assigns date (within 10 working days)
     
   • Express Service (AED 2,500): Ceremony within 1 working day with flexible timing
     
4. Receive Confirmation
   
   • Court reviews application
     
   • You’ll receive an appointment date and time via email or SMS
     
5. Attend the Court Ceremony
   
   • Go to the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court on the scheduled date
     
   • Bring original documents
     
   • The ceremony lasts 10–15 minutes
     
   • No witnesses needed
     
6. Get Your Marriage Certificate
   
   • Issued same day (express) or in a few days (standard)
     
   • Option to attest certificate from UAE MOFA for international use

This process might seem easy on paper, but it can make your wedding day a stressful day. That’s why it is better to consult a professional wedding expert to help you with the court marriage in Abu Dhabi.

Civil vs Sharia Marriage in UAE