How long does it take to get married in Abu Dhabi?

If documents are ready, most couples complete the process in 7–14 days including medical tests and venue booking.

Do I need UAE residency to marry in Abu Dhabi?

No. Tourists and visit-visa holders may legally marry; residency is only required later if you want spouse sponsorship.

Is a UAE marriage certificate valid worldwide?

Yes, once apostilled at MOFA it is recognized by most countries; check with your embassy for any extra steps.

Can same-sex couples marry in Abu Dhabi?

UAE law does not yet recognize same-sex marriage; couples must marry in a jurisdiction that does.

What happens if one partner is Muslim?

A No Objection Certificate from the Muslim partner’s embassy is usually required, plus attendance at a short counseling session.

Can Foreigners Get Married in Abu Dhabi 2026

Quick answer

Yes, foreigners can legally marry in Abu Dhabi in 2026. You must obtain a marriage license from the Abu Dhabi Civil Registry and then hold a ceremony at a licensed venue. Once the marriage is registered, you receive an official UAE marriage certificate recognized worldwide.

Why get married in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi offers a fast, straightforward process with no residency requirement for the ceremony itself. Many couples choose the emirate for its modern facilities, English-speaking staff, and the option to combine the wedding with a beach or desert celebration. The resulting certificate is accepted by most embassies and home countries for apostille and registration.

Who can marry in Abu Dhabi?

Any two adults (18+ for both bride and groom) of any nationality may marry. Same-sex marriage is not yet recognized under UAE federal law, so couples must marry in another jurisdiction if that is their requirement. If either partner was previously married, proof of divorce or spouse’s death certificate (with English translation and attestation) is required.

Step-by-step process 2026

1. Prepare the documents

Valid passports (minimum six months validity)
Two passport-size photos each
Proof of single status: never-married certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate (attested by your home country and the UAE embassy, then translated into Arabic)
Medical fitness certificates from any DHA-approved center in Abu Dhabi (AED 500–700 per person)
If one partner is Muslim and the other is not, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Muslim partner’s embassy is often requested

2. Submit the application

Book an appointment online via the Abu Dhabi Civil Registry portal or visit the Family Guidance Section at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD). Pay the license fee (verify current fee with ADJD) and submit your documents. Processing usually takes 1–3 working days.

3. Medical test & premarital counseling

Both partners complete a blood test for thalassemia, HIV, hepatitis, and rubella. Non-Muslim couples may skip the 30-minute counseling session; Muslim couples attend a short Islamic guidance class.

4. Choose your ceremony venue

You may marry at any venue approved by the Civil Registry: hotels, beach clubs, desert camps, or the Civil Registry hall itself. A licensed officiant must be present. Popular choices include the St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Emirates Palace, and private desert venues.

5. Register the marriage

After the ceremony the officiant submits the signed documents to the Civil Registry within seven days. You collect the official UAE marriage certificate (AED 300–500) and can request additional copies for embassies.

Common mistakes to avoid

Using non-attested divorce decrees—always complete the full attestation chain.
Assuming your home-country marriage certificate is enough; you must register locally to receive a UAE certificate.
Booking a venue before confirming it holds a current Civil Registry license.
Forgetting to legalize documents in both your home country and the UAE; this can delay the process by weeks.

Cost breakdown (2026 estimates)

Medical test (per person)	AED 500–700
Marriage license	Verify current fee with ADJD
Venue & officiant	AED 3,000–25,000
Official certificate	AED 300–500
Translations & attestations	AED 400–1,200

Tips for a smooth experience

Start document attestation six to eight weeks before your planned date.
Use the ADJD online portal to book slots; walk-ins are limited.
Bring both original documents and colored photocopies on the appointment day.
Choose a bilingual wedding planner familiar with ADJD rules to coordinate venue approvals.
If converting to Islam for the marriage, allow extra time for the Shahada certificate and new passport amendment.

After the wedding: next steps

Once you have the UAE marriage certificate, you can:
1. Apply for spouse sponsorship visas if either partner holds UAE residency.
2. Apostille the certificate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) for use abroad.
3. Register the marriage at your home-country embassy or consulate in Abu Dhabi.

Key takeaway

Foreigners can absolutely get married in Abu Dhabi in 2026. With the correct attested documents, medical tests, and a licensed venue, the entire process can be completed in under two weeks and gives you an internationally recognized marriage certificate.