Getting Married in UAE as Expat: Civil Ceremony Rules 2026

Who Can Get Married in the UAE

Expat couples over 18 can marry in the UAE without converting to Islam. Civil ceremonies are available for Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and other faiths at approved venues. The process is handled by the Personal Status Court or designated marriage offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Same-sex marriages are not recognised.

Required Documents for Civil Marriage

Both partners must present valid passports, Emirates IDs if already issued, and a no-objection letter from their embassy. You also need a medical fitness certificate from an approved DHA or DOH centre and proof of marital status, such as a single-status affidavit. All foreign documents require attested translations into Arabic.

Where Civil Ceremonies Take Place

Christian ceremonies are commonly held at churches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that hold civil marriage licences. Hindu and Sikh couples can marry at temples registered with the Personal Status Court. Secular civil ceremonies are conducted at the Dubai or Abu Dhabi Marriage Office. Venues must be pre-approved; private homes or hotels without licences are not accepted.

Step-by-Step Process and Costs

First, book a medical test (AED 600-800 per person). Next, submit documents at the marriage office and pay the application fee of AED 1,000. After approval, the ceremony itself costs AED 1,500-3,000 depending on the venue. The full process usually takes 7-14 days. You will receive a UAE marriage certificate that can be attested for use overseas.

After the Ceremony

Register the marriage with your embassy within 30 days. Update your Emirates ID marital status at ICP within 60 days. If either partner plans to sponsor the other for residency, submit the marriage certificate to ICP along with the standard sponsorship documents. Health insurance must list the spouse within 30 days of the wedding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many couples forget to get documents attested in their home country before arrival. Others book venues that lack civil marriage approval. Always confirm the venue holds a current licence from the Personal Status Court. Keep digital copies of every receipt and certificate, as replacements cost AED 500-800 and take up to two weeks.

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