Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi for Non-Muslims: ADJD Guide
A civil marriage is a legally recognized union between two individuals formalized through a civil contract under secular law. Unlike religious marriages, it is not governed by religious principles and does not depend on the religion or nationality of the parties.
In the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, civil marriages are regulated under Law No. 14 of 2021 Concerning Civil Marriage and Its Effects, particularly Articles 4 and 5. This law established the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court and introduced a clear legal framework allowing non-Muslims to marry through a civil process.
The legislation outlines the eligibility criteria, procedural requirements, and legal consequences of civil marriage. Its primary objective is to formally regulate the marital relationship while protecting the rights of both spouses and safeguarding the rights of children arising from the marriage.
By providing a structured and transparent system, the law offers couples a modern and legally secure pathway to formalize their relationship within the UAE.
In this article, we will explore the civil marriage procedures before the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), including the rationale behind its introduction, the available types of civil marriage, the requirements, and the ceremony process.
Keytake Aways
- Who can apply: Anyone aged 18 and above, regardless of religion, may apply, provided they are single and non-UAE nationals.
- Two service Options: Regular – scheduled by the court depending on the availability; Express – couples can select the ceremony date and time, subject to the court’s opening hours.
- Documents: Passport, Emirates ID (for UAE residents), e-visa or visa entry stamp (for non-UAE residents), divorce certificate (if divorced), deceased spouse’s death certificate (if widowed).
- Ceremony & certificate: Ceremony will take place at the ADJD Civil Family Court; certificates will be issued within 3 days (if regular service), and on the same day (if express service).
- Fees & validity: Court Fees: AED 300 for Regular Service; AED 2500 for Express Service
Table of Contents
What is a Civil Marriage?
A civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is officially registered under UAE laws and regulations, regardless of the couple’s religious affiliation.
Both UAE residents holding a valid Emirates ID and non-residents can apply. It is also possible for one party to be a resident and the other a visitor, provided both are physically present in the UAE at the time of the marriage.
The following conditions must be met for the marriage application to be approved:
- Both spouses need to be at least 18 years old.
- The free will of the spouses.
- The mental capacity of the spouses.
- No forbidden kinship between spouses (brothers, children, uncles, or aunts)
- Both spouses are not in any existing marital relationship.
- Neither spouse can be an Emirati
Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Requirements:
Required documents for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi including passport copy, UAE visa/Emirates ID (if applicable), and supporting documents for divorced or widowed applicants.
- Copy of Passport
- Copy of UAE residence visa (for UAE residents)
- Copy of Emirates ID (front and back, for UAE residents)
- E-visa or entry stamp in the passport (for non-UAE residents)
- If widowed, you need to provide a copy of the deceased spouse’s death certificate
- If divorced, you need to submit a divorce certificate/judgment
- Mobile number
- Email address
- Current home address
Types of Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi Judicial Department:
Under the ADJD Civil Marriage, there are two types of services available:
- Standard Civil Marriage: The court will choose the date and time, subject to availability.
- Express Marriage: Allows the spouses to choose the date and time of the ceremony, subject to the court’s timing. The entire procedure can take from 2 to 3 days.
Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Ceremony:
The marriage ceremony takes place in the Civil Family Court in the ADJD main court building (next to Zayed Sports City). The ceremony is quick and straightforward, usually taking around 15 minutes. Couples may exchange rings and vows, but it is not mandatory.
Key details for Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi:
- Location: Civil Family Court, ADJD Main Court Building
- Court Working Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
(Court working hours may vary during Ramadan)
- Ceremony Duration: Approximately 15 minutes
- What couples can do:
Exchange rings- Say personal vows
- Bring guests (family and friends)
After the Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi ceremony:
- Standard Civil Marriage: The marriage certificate is issued within 3 days
- Express Civil Marriage: The marriage certificate is issued immediately after the ceremony
- For international validity: The marriage certificate must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and by the embassy or consulate of the country where the couple intends to use the marriage certificate.
Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Fees:
- Standard Civil Marriage fee: 300 AED
- Express Civil Marriage fee: 2,500 AED
- Marriage/Pre-nuptial agreement (optional): +950 AED (additional fee)
Prenuptial Agreement for Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi
A prenuptial agreement (prenup) is an optional legal document that couples can submit as part of the Civil Marriage process in Abu Dhabi. It allows both spouses to clearly define financial rights and responsibilities before the marriage is officially registered.
A prenup can be useful for couples who want clarity on matters such as:
- Division of assets and savings
- Financial responsibilities during the marriage
- Protection of personal property owned before marriage
- Agreements related to debts or liabilities
For a deeper understanding, explore our complete guide to prenuptial agreements in the UAE, including key benefits, legal considerations, and what couples should prepare.
How can we help you at POA.ae?
At POA.ae, we make civil marriage in Abu Dhabi simple and stress-free. Our experienced team supports from start to finish, ensuring the application is accurate, complete, and submitted correctly.
We can help you with:
- Preparing and reviewing all required documents
- Completing and submitting the civil marriage application
- Booking your ADJD court appointment
- Step-by-step guidance for the ceremony and certificate issuance
- MOFA attestation support to make your marriage certificate valid outside the UAE
If you want a faster, smoother experience, POA.ae is here to help you complete your civil marriage in Abu Dhabi with confidence.
FAQs
1) Who is eligible for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?
Anyone aged 18 and above, regardless of religion, may apply, provided they are single and non-UAE nationals.
2) Can tourists or non-residents apply for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is available for both tourists and UAE residents, as long as they meet the requirements and are inside the UAE to complete the process.
3) Do we need witnesses for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?
Witnesses are not required; however, you are welcome to bring family and friends to the ceremony.
4) Is a medical test required for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?
Pre-marital health screening is not required in ADJD Civil Marriage.
5) Can one partner be a UAE resident and the other a visitor for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Civil marriage in Abu Dhabi can be done if one partner is a resident and the other is a visitor, provided both meet the legal conditions and are in the UAE.
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