Congratulations to all my soon-to-be 2026 brides and grooms, your year has finally come! While the fun parts of wedding planning are all up to you, you can leave the legal technicalities to me. Oh, you didn’t know, getting married in the UAE as an expat isn’t as easy as saying “I do”? Sorry for bursting any bubbles but this easy to follow guide I’ve made for you will sum up all the documents you’ll need as a muslim or non-muslim expat getting married in the UAE. Keep reading to tick off one more thing from your wedding to-do list (I know how good it feels).
Also read: Use This Guide To Get A Massive 39 Days Of Leave In 2026
How Marriage Works In The UAE
In the UAE, the legal steps depend mainly on whether you’re Muslim or non-Muslim. Non-Muslim couples can now choose a civil marriage, which follows a secular legal process and does not involve a religious ceremony. However, Muslim couples must be married under Islamic law through the Sharia courts. These two paths are very different, so understanding which one applies to you is the first and most important step.
Civil Marriage For Non-Muslim Expats
Civil marriage has become a popular option for non-Muslim couples, especially in Abu Dhabi, where the service is open to both residents and tourists. Dubai also offers civil marriages, mainly for residents. What makes this option appealing is how simple and modern it is. There is no requirement for a guardian, no witnesses, and no premarital medical screening. The focus is purely on legal consent between two adults.
Documents Non-Muslim Couples Need to Prepare
This is where having a clear checklist really helps. To apply for a civil marriage, couples usually need:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Emirates IDs if you are UAE residents
- Proof that both partners are legally free to marry, such as a Certificate of No Impediment or an embassy letter
- Divorce or death certificates if either partner was previously married
- Birth certificates, if requested by the court
Any documents issued outside the UAE may need to be officially attested and translated into Arabic by a certified legal translator. This step often takes the longest, so it’s worth starting early.
How The Civil Marriage Process Works
Once all documents are ready, the application is submitted online or in person through the relevant court. After paying the required fee, you’ll be given a marriage appointment. On the day, the process is quick and straightforward. Both partners attend the court, present their identification, sign the marriage contract in front of a judge, and the marriage is legally registered. In many cases, the marriage certificate is issued on the same day or shortly after.
Islamic Marriage For Muslim Expats
For Muslim couples, marriage in the UAE is conducted through the Sharia courts and follows Islamic law. This process includes religious and legal requirements that are not part of the civil marriage system. While it involves more steps, it is well structured and widely followed across the country.
Documents Required For A Sharia Marriage
To avoid confusion, here are the key documents and requirements Muslim couples should prepare:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Emirates IDs and residency visas for residents
- Proof of marital status, including divorce or death certificates if applicable
- A premarital medical screening certificate issued in the UAE
- Approval from the bride’s guardian (wali)
- Two adult Muslim male witnesses
The marriage contract, also known as the nikah, is prepared in Arabic and includes agreed terms such as the mahr.
How The Sharia Marriage Process Takes Place
The process usually begins by booking an appointment with the local Sharia court. Both partners must complete the mandatory medical screening before the marriage can proceed. On the day of the ceremony, the couple, guardian and witnesses attend the court or an authorised marriage officer. The nikah contract is reviewed, agreed upon and signed, after which the court issues an official marriage certificate.
What To Know About Mixed-Faith Marriages
Mixed-faith marriages can come with additional considerations. A Muslim man may marry a non-Muslim woman under Islamic law. However, a Muslim woman cannot legally marry a non-Muslim man through the Sharia courts unless he converts to Islam. In some cases, eligible couples choose the civil marriage route instead, particularly in Abu Dhabi, where religion is not a deciding factor.
After The Wedding: Important Next Steps
Once the marriage certificate is issued, there are a few practical steps many couples need to take. If you plan to use your marriage certificate outside the UAE, it will usually need to be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and sometimes by your home country’s embassy as well. The certificate is also required for spouse visa applications, updating official records, and making changes to banking or insurance details.
Start Early & Enjoy The Moment
Getting legally married in the UAE may seem overwhelming at first, but it becomes much easier when broken down step by step. The key is preparation. Start early, gather your documents carefully, and allow time for attestations if needed.
Once the legal side is done, you can focus on what really matters – celebrating your relationship and starting your married life together! Congratulations to all my beautiful brides and handsome grooms!
