An Expat’s Guide to Court Marriage in Dubai
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Are you an expat living in the UAE and planning to get married? Then you are probably looking into a court marriage in Dubai. Many foreign non-muslim couples having Dubai residency choose this option because it’s legal, straightforward, and recognized across the UAE and abroad.
In this article, we will explain the conditions and procedures for expatriate marriage in the UAE, especially for those planning a court marriage in Dubai. We will also talk about the Dubai court marriage certificate, what documents you need, and other helpful tips to marry legally in Dubai courts.
If you are looking for a faster (can be done within 24 hours as well), you can check Abu Dhabi Court Marriage.
Why Choose Court Marriage in Dubai?
Dubai is home to people from all over the world. With so many expats living and working here, it’s common for couples to get legally married through the Dubai court.
Court marriage is popular because:
- It is legal and officially registered.
- It helps with visa sponsorship, joint accounts, and more.
- You receive a Dubai court marriage certificate, which can be used in other countries too (after attestation).
But keep in mind, the process can be different for Muslim and non-Muslim expats.
Conditions and Requirements for Court Marriage in Dubai
Basic Dubai Court Marriage Requirements:
- Both partners must be 18 years or older.
- At least one partner must have a Dubai residence or work visa.
- You need original passports and Emirates IDs.
- You must provide a pre-marriage medical fitness certificate from a UAE health center.
- If divorced or widowed, you must show divorce or death certificates.
Tip: Visit the court marriage fees in Dubai page for more details on costs.
Court Marriage in Dubai for Muslim Expats
If you are a Muslim couple, you can get married directly at the Dubai Court under Sharia law.
Here’s how it works:
- Fill out a marriage form and apply at the Dubai Court.
- Both partners must go to court on the wedding day.
- The bride must bring her father or male guardian.
- You need two Muslim male witnesses.
- Submit your documents and pay the court fee.
- Sign the Dubai court marriage contract and receive your certificate.
If the bride’s father cannot attend, a written proxy or guardian may be accepted. A death certificate is needed if her father has passed away.
For full steps, see Muslim Court Marriage in Dubai.
Court Marriage in Dubai for Non-Muslim Expats
Non-muslim expats who want to get married in Dubai can opt for a civil marriage in Dubai. The eligibility criteria for court marriage in Dubai for non-muslim expats are:
- Both parties must be non‑Muslim (Sharia‑based marriages under Dubai Courts apply only to Muslims)
- At least one party must be a resident of Dubai (non‑residents alone cannot apply via Dubai Courts)
- Both must be at least 21 years old (some older sources mention 18 lunar years, but the law requires 21)
- Both must prove they are single (e.g., “Certificate of No Marriage Record” / single‑status certificate attested by their embassy
- Both must appear in person, or be represented by a legally authorised Power of Attorney
If none of the partners have a Dubai residency visa, they should opt for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, which takes as little as 24 hours and also doesn’t require the couple to be residents of the UAE.
Getting the Dubai Court Marriage Certificate
After your court wedding, you will receive an Arabic marriage certificate from the Dubai Court. This is your official proof of marriage.
To use it for travel, immigration, or in your home country, you need to:
- Get the certificate attested by the UAE Ministry of Justice.
- Then, legalize it through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Finally, have it attested by your embassy (if needed).
This process makes your Dubai court marriage certificate valid worldwide.
Dubai Court Marriage Reviews: What Do Couples Say?
Many expats say the Dubai court marriage process is organized but takes time. It can be difficult for non-Muslims, as they must go through embassies. Others prefer Abu Dhabi for faster and easier weddings.
Common feedback:
- Good for Muslim expats with UAE visas.
- Legal and accepted across the UAE.
- Paperwork can take a few weeks.
Want to avoid delays? Explore the option of civil weddings in Abu Dhabi.
What is a Dubai court marriage certificate?
The Dubai court marriage certificate is the official legal document issued by the Dubai Court after a court marriage. It proves your marriage is registered under UAE law. The certificate is issued in Arabic and must be attested by UAE authorities and legalized by your home country’s embassy if you plan to use it abroad for immigration, visas, or legal purposes.
What are the contract details for Dubai nuptials?
For court marriage in Dubai, the couple signs a legally binding marriage contract in front of a judge. It includes both parties’ personal details, consent to marry, and witness signatures (especially in Muslim marriages). This contract is what the Dubai Court uses to issue your official marriage certificate.
Final Thoughts
A court marriage in Dubai is a great choice for Muslim expats living in the UAE. It’s legal, official, and accepted around the world — but the process comes with several steps and documents. If you’re a non-Muslim or in a hurry, Abu Dhabi might be a better choice for a quick civil marriage.
Whether you choose Dubai or another emirate, always check the latest rules and talk to a wedding planner or legal expert before starting.
