DV Frequently Asked Questions
Abu Dhabi Civil Wedding Requirements :
1. Valid Emirates ID & passport copies for both
2. Valid tourist visa copy (if applicable)
3. 18+ years old
4. Non-UAE nationals only
5. Divorce/annulment certificate (if applicable)
6. Original Emirates ID & passport on wedding day
7. UAE Pass required for UAE residents
8. No witnesses needed
Ras Al Khaimah Civil Marriage Requirements:
1. Valid Emirates ID (front & back) for both parties (UAE residents)
2. Valid passport copy for both parties (full scan)
3. Valid tourist visa copy (if applicable)
4. Legal Arabic translation of the passport page for tourists (AED 125 additional cost)
Eligibility Criteria
1. Marital status must be single
2. Both parties must be 21+ years old
3. Non-Muslim couples only
Additional Requirements
1. Court fees: AED 205 (payable on the wedding day at KIOSK machine)
2. Attested divorce/annulment certificate (UAE MOFA) if previously married
3. No witnesses required
Yes, It is possible for anyone, regardless of religion, to obtain a Abu Dhabi civil marriage except for UAE nationals with the following criteria :
Both parties must provide their consent to marriage
Both parties must be at least 18 years’ old for Abu Dhabi civil wedding (any religion)
Above 21 yrs old for Ras Al Khaimah civil wedding (Non Muslim Only)
The parties must not be related by the first or second degree
The parties must not be married to any other person
Either party a NON – UAE national
The civil wedding process is straightforward, and once all documents are submitted, the registration typically takes 7 to 10 working days. However, timelines may vary based on document verification and the Express Civil Wedding is available upon 24 hours approval with additional cost.
Civil marriages are conducted at designated courts, such as the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. Other emirates may also offer services for non-Muslim civil marriages with additional requirements by its jurisdiction.
Yes, a UAE civil wedding is an official marriage, approved and issued by the Court. The certificate will then require attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For any concerns, you should contact your embassy.
Yes, UAE Civil wedding is like any other official marriage; it is approved and issued by the Court and will then need to be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Legalization to your embassy is needed. If you have any concerns, you should contact your embassy.
No, you don't need to be a UAE resident to get married here. Tourists can apply for a civil marriage from anywhere in the world with our help. Just remember, you'll need to travel to Abu Dhabi for the ceremony after submitting your application and paying the court fee.
Original passport must be presented on the wedding day and if you are a UAE resident, you should also bring your Emirates ID.
Witnesses are not required for a Civil Wedding however you are welcome to bring family and friends to the ceremony.
Yes, you can bring guests with you to the marriage ceremony.
Yes, but it is not mandatory. Please let the team know upon arrival if you wish to exchange rings or include your own vows.
The Court aims to conduct marriage ceremonies within 15 minutes.
Yes, you may take photos with your phone during the ceremony inside the court. Professional photographers are not permitted inside the courtroom, but you can hire a professional photography team to capture moments outside the court premises.
With our express service, you can choose your ceremony date and time, subject to the court’s operating hours. For the regular service, the court will try to accommodate your preferred date and time, depending on availability.
The Express Civil Wedding service is processed within 1 working day, allowing you to select your preferred ceremony date and time during court operating hours. (Not available on weekends or public holidays.)
The marriage ceremonies may take place on the following dates and times:
Monday to Thursday: 9:00am-1:30pm
Friday: 9:00am-11:00am
Yes, it is possible, but not mandatory. We can assist with this service for an additional fee if required.
All appointments are subject to court availability and are allocated a 30-minute time slot. Operating hours may be shortened depending on yearly announcements, and timing may vary during Ramadan. The court is closed on public holidays and weekends. During this holy month, please observe modest dress and refrain from public displays of affection out of respect for local customs and Muslim employees.