Marriage Requirements For Non-Muslim Expats in UAE
                     Marriage Requirements 
For Non-Muslim Expats 
in UAE
SUBMITTED BY
HHS LAWYERS AND LEGAL CONSULTANTS
Marriage requirements for expat Non-Muslim go by sharia 
law in UAE. The rules and procedures vary depending on 
the nationality or religion. People with different religion may 
face some challenges. 
 
If a nonresident, still want to exchange vows in UAE then 
both the parties should follow a few legal requirements as 
per UAE laws. Moreover, the rules of marriage differ for 
nationals, foreigners, or citizens of a different kind of 
religion. In order for the marriage to take place both the 
parties must follow a few legalities as mentioned in this 
article.
Pre-marital General Requirements
The following are the general requirements for a marriage to take 
place:
 Approval of the bride
 In Dubai, at least one party to the marriage contract (husband, 
wife or wife’s guardian) should have valid permission to stay in 
the UAE.
 Both parties must undergo a medical examination from public 
healthcare facilities in the UAE.
Pre-marital general requirements
A premarital medical certificate for future spouses that can provide the medical 
status of both parties. This kind of certificate normally mentions that the 
persons looking to get married do not suffer from any diseases. This certificate 
is issued from any public health care facilities in Dubai
General Conditions to Get Married in UAE  
There are several conditions and requirements
 to get married in Dubai, and it is important to respect the 
applicable laws in this city and in the UAE. Foreigners and locals 
wanting to marry in Dubai should meet all the requirements in this 
matter, among which, the following are quite important:
 The marriage of two persons of the same gender is prohibited in 
the UAE.
 A marriage needs to be legally registered in order to be 
considered.
 Non-Muslim persons can get married in the UAE with respect to 
the rules of their country.
Legal Requirements for Non-Muslim Expats
Before getting married it is advisable for expats to check with their 
respective lawyers about the rules and regulation. If an expat that are 
not citizens of the UAE the following guidelines apply:
 Couple must have a valid permit to stay within the country as long 
enough to get their marriage documents ready.
 Both the male and female who are getting married must be of a 
valid age (matured enough to understand the marriage implication).
 Both male and female who wanted to get married should not be 
related by blood relation
 Present two witnesses with proper identification documents
Approval of Marriage Certificates
For a marriage to be valid in UAE it must be authorized by relevant 
authorities.  matrimonial status can only be accredited by a 
competent court. Once the fee is paid, the application is examined, 
and the decision is made upon the marriage in Dubai. Only after 
these steps, a certificate is issued by the authorities in charge.
Rejection of Marriage Application
An application for marriage may be rejected if the medical results 
show that the bride or groom is not medically fit to get married.
Special Provisions for Non-Muslim 
Marriages
For non-Islamic marriages, the procedure varies depending on each 
spouse’s nationality.
 Non-Muslim couples are no longer allowed to get married at UAE 
Court.
 A Muslim man, however, can get married to a non-Muslim woman 
in UAE Court, while a Muslim woman is prohibited from getting 
married to a non-Muslim in the UAE.
Non-Muslims can conclude marriage formalities as per 
their religions
Some countries seven require their citizens to file an application of 
intention to marry. You should ensure to carry out each and every 
procedure as per sharia and law, you may also seek the guidance of family 
lawyers in Dubai. They will help you out till you get married legally.
Our Marriage lawyers provide expert advice on court 
marriage procedures for non-muslim expats in UAE. For a 
consultation contact us.
Website - https://hhslawyers.com/
Mobile: +971 55 370 1232
Telephone: +971 4 2555496
Email: [email protected]
Thank You