What if I tell you that marriage in Abu Dhabi is not that difficult, and you can get married in Abu Dhabi within 24 hours?

Let’s say you have found your soulmate, and the only thing standing between you and your “happily ever after” is the question, “Where to tie the knot?”

For many couples, especially expats, the idea of understanding and following marriage laws feels overwhelming. But, what if I told you that getting married in Abu Dhabi is not only possible but surprisingly simple.

In recent years, Abu Dhabi has become a hub for marriages of expats, especially after the introduction of Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 for civil marriage. 

With the right guidance, you could get married in just 24 hours, and this blog tells you how. So stick to the screen because the key to your dream life is right here!

Types of Marriages Available in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi welcomes nationals from various countries and gives them an easy option to get married here. As far as the types of marriages are concerned, Abu Dhabi offers several religious and civil options depending upon the nationality of an individual. Most common marriage options are:

Muslim Marriage

Muslims follow islamic law which means they marry each other through nikah, which is a religious marriage between two individuals, officiated by a certified religious leader.

Christian Marriage

Abu Dhabi is a home of many christians forming a majority of the population. For the,, the government offers christian marriage services which can be solemnized in church in the presence of a priest.  

Civil Marriage

In case the individuals belong to two different religions or are tourists, they can get married in Abu Dhabi through civil marriage, which is a court marriage.

Step-by-Step Guide To Getting Married in Abu Dhabi

Getting married in Abu Dhabi, especially for expats, seems difficult when you do not have proper guidance and no knowledge of the steps to follow. Thus, we have broken down the whole process into simple steps:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Marriage Type

Before starting the marriage process, it’s important to choose the type of marriage that suits your preferences. 

Foreigners often opt for a civil marriage due to its straightforward process, while those seeking religious ceremonies might prefer Nikah or a Christian wedding.

Step 2: Gathering the Required Documents

Every marriage in Abu Dhabi requires some essential documents to prove your identity and eligibility. Some of the common documents required include:

• Passport copies (for both parties)
• Visa or residence permit
• Birth certificates
• Proof of single status or divorce certificate (if applicable)
• A recent passport-size photograph

Step 3: Scheduling Your Marriage Process

Once you’ve gathered the documents, it’s time to schedule your appointment with the relevant authority. Court marriages typically require booking a date at the Abu Dhabi court, while religious marriages need to be coordinated with the respective mosque or church. 

It’s advisable to schedule your appointment well in advance, especially if you’re planning a marriage during peak seasons.

Step 4: Legal Formalities and Registration

Once you’ve completed the marriage ceremony, you’ll need to legally register your marriage with the relevant authorities. If you’re getting married in Abu Dhabi for foreigners, this registration process ensures that your marriage is legally recognized under UAE law.

For civil marriages, this typically involves registering with the court. For religious ceremonies, you must also ensure that your marriage is recorded at the church or mosque. 

Tips For A Smooth Marriage Process

In order to be safe from all the mishaps that could happen on the day of marriage, it is important for the couple to keep in mind the following thing to everything go smoothly:

• Start the marriage process early to make sure that you have plenty of time for paperwork and other requirements.
• If you’re unsure about the process, it’s a good idea to consult a legal professional who specializes in marriage laws in Abu Dhabi.
• Make sure all your documents are complete and valid. Missing or incorrect documents can delay the process.
• If you’re not fluent in Arabic, consider hiring a translator for your marriage appointment or ceremony.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

No matter how smooth you plan your marriage to be, there will always be some minor or sometimes major hiccups in the event. Here are some common mistakes that you must avoid for a smooth marriage:

• Make sure that you have all the required documents, such as the no objection certificate if necessary for foreigners and they are translated into Arabic or English.
• Make sure you understand the differences between civil marriage and religious ceremonies so that you choose the one that suits you best.
• Failing to register your marriage can result in legal complications later on, so don’t skip this step.
• Last-minute decisions can cause unnecessary stress. Always schedule your marriage process well in advance. 

Conclusion

If you are planning your marriage in Abu Dhabi, now is the time to put the stress in the back seat and get done with the process smoothly through this guide.

Take the next step towards a hassle-free ceremony. Act now by visiting Civil Wedding Abu Dhabi and let us guide you to a seamless “I do.”

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