As a result of the UAE’s popularity as an expatriate destination, a large number of couples have chosen to marry there. However, there is always a question about the recognition and validity of UAE marriages in foreign countries. Before February 2023, non-Muslim civil marriage, divorce, and inheritance were governed and regulated by Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 on personal status law, as well as Federal Law No. 5 of 1985 on UAE civil transactions law.
Previously, there were no specific laws in the UAE to regulate and govern non-Muslim family matters, such as civil marriage. As a result, on February 1, 2023, the UAE government implemented a historical legislature by Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status Law for Non-Muslims. This new civil personal status law welcomed non-Muslim foreign nationals, and it is consistent with international family law practices by allowing for separate regulations for non-Muslims, such as marriage and divorce.Â
Under Federal Decree Law No. (41) 2022 on civil personal status, non-Muslim foreigners living in the United Arab Emirates and non-Muslim UAE citizens are now eligible for civil marriages.
In addition to this law, Abu Dhabi Law No. (14 )2021 on Civil Marriage authorizes civil marriage for non-Muslim citizens or residents of the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Legalization of Marriage Certificate: A valid marriage certificate issued by the relevant UAE authority is required so that marriages conducted within the UAE are recognized in foreign countries. The process of attestation includes several steps. Firstly, the marriage certificate should be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs either in person or through an authorized service center. The certificate, after attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, should be translated by a certified translator into English or the desired language,. The original certificate and its translation should be presented to the respective embassy in the UAE. Further, the embassy will attest to the documents, which would be valid for use in the home country of the couple. By following these steps, couples can be assured that their marriage status will be recognized in their country of origin and that the marriage certificate satisfies all of the requirements that are imposed by the law.Â
Importance of Legalizing Marriage: The legalization of a marriage certificate is significant because it establishes the legal status of the marriage as well as makes it more straightforward to execute various kinds of administrative procedures. Because of this, it is guaranteed that married couples will be able to enjoy the rights and benefits that come along with marriage, both domestically and internationally.
Generally, marriages conducted in the UAE are recognized in other countries, provided they meet the legal requirements and do not breach the local laws or public policy. Couples intending to marry in the UAE should familiarize themselves with the legal framework and seek appropriate guidance to ensure their marriage is valid and recognized internationally.
