Civil Marriage in UAE – What You Should Know
Civil marriage in the UAE is a legal union between two people that is not based on religion or tradition. The government acknowledges it and offers both parties legal protection. To be eligible, both parties must meet certain requirements, including being at least 18 years old and not being closely related. The process involves submitting documents, attending an interview, and having witnesses present at the ceremony.
Here are some important things to know about civil marriage in the UAE:
✔️ Both parties must be at least 18 years old and unrelated by blood or marriage in order to marry in the UAE. Non-Muslims can only marry other non-Muslims, while Muslim men are allowed to marry non-Muslim women.
✔️ Documents: Both parties must bring their original passports and residence visas, as well as a certificate from their home country that says their marital status (single, divorced, or widowed). If any of the documents are not in Arabic, they must be translated and attested.
✔️ Procedure: Couples can apply for civil marriage at any marriage court in the UAE. The process typically involves filling out an application form, providing the required documents, and attending an interview with a marriage officer. If approved, the couple will be issued a marriage certificate attestation.
✔️ Witnesses: Two male witnesses or one male and two female witnesses must be present at the marriage ceremony.
✔️ Divorce: Divorce is possible under civil law in the UAE, but the process can be complex and time-consuming. It is recommended that couples seek legal advice before proceeding with a divorce.
✔️ Cultural considerations: While civil marriage is legal in the UAE, it is not widely accepted in all parts of the country, particularly among more conservative and traditional communities. Couples should be aware of potential cultural sensitivities and take appropriate precautions.
✔️ Legal effects: In the UAE, civil marriage is recognised by the government and protects both parties’ rights to property and inheritance. However, it is important to note that the UAE does not recognise same-sex marriage.
Who can legally get a civil marriage in Dubai?
The documents required for a UAE business visa or residency may vary depending on the type of visa or residency you are applying for. However, some common documents required for the application process include:
✔️Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
✔️ Photographs: Passport-sized photographs (usually two) with a white background
✔️ Sponsor letter: A letter from your sponsor (a company or individual) in the UAE stating the purpose and duration of your visit.
✔️ Business plan: A detailed plan outlining the nature of your business activities in the UAE
✔️ Financial means: Proof of financial means, such as bank statements, showing that you have enough funds to support your stay in the UAE
✔️ Medical examination: A medical examination report from a UAE-approved medical center
✔️ Security screening: A security screening was conducted by the UAE authorities.
✔️ Other relevant documents: Other documents may be required depending on the visa or residency type, such as educational qualifications, work experience, or business licenses.
In Dubai, the Personal Status Law governs civil marriage, which is open to anyone who meets the following requirements:
✔️ Both parties must be over the age of 18
✔️ Both parties must have a valid residency visa in the UAE.
✔️ There cannot be any close blood or marriage ties between the parties.
✔️ If one or both parties have been previously married, they must provide proof of the termination of that marriage (e.g., a divorce certificate or death certificate).
✔️ Both parties must provide the necessary documents, including passports, residency visas, and birth certificates.
Getting married in a civil ceremony in the UAE gives both people important benefits and protections, such as:
✔️ Legal recognition: In the UAE, civil marriage is recognised by the government, and both people’s property and inheritance rights are protected by the law.
✔️ Stability: A civil marriage gives the relationship between the two people a legal framework, which can help keep the relationship stable and safe.
✔️ Flexibility: Civil marriage in the UAE is not based on religious or traditional customs, which means that couples have more flexibility in terms of their wedding ceremony and other aspects of the marriage.
✔️ Acceptance: Civil marriage may not be widely accepted in all parts of the country, but it provides a legally recognized option for couples who may not be able to or choose not to get married according to religious or traditional customs.
✔️ Protection: Women can be protected by a civil marriage in case of a divorce or other legal proceedings. This is because a civil marriage gives women legal rights and protections under the law.
Civil marriage in the UAE is a legally recognised union between two individuals that is not based on religious or traditional customs. It provides legal protection for both parties and is recognised by the government in terms of property and inheritance rights. Both parties must meet certain requirements and submit the necessary documents to be eligible. While civil marriage may not be widely accepted in all parts of the country, it provides an important legal option for couples who may not be able to or choose not to get married according to religious or traditional customs. Overall, civil marriage in the UAE can provide both parties important legal protections and benefits and promote stability and flexibility in the relationship. For more detail contact attestation service agencies.
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