Dubai has launched a new civil marriage service that enables non-Muslim couples to complete their marriage ceremonies

Dubai has launched a new civil marriage service that enables non-Muslim couples to complete their marriage ceremonies

Dubai has launched a new civil marriage service that enables non-Muslim couples to complete their marriage ceremonies within a day. Previously, non-Muslim couples in Dubai had to either get married in a religious ceremony or at their home country’s embassy or consulate. However, with this new service, non-Muslim couples can get their civil marriage contract in just 24 hours.

The service is in line with the new Federal Personal Status Law that covers marriage, divorce, and inheritance of non-Muslim nationals and expats in the UAE. This service will regulate marriage conditions and the procedures of contracting and documenting the marriage before the courts and specify the procedures of divorce that can be initiated jointly or unilaterally.

To avail of this service, couples need to visit one of the Dubai Courts service centers, which are located in Al Yalayis, Wafi Mall, and Al Barsha Traffic Building. They need to fill out a digital form and have a designated employee check for consent from both parties. Once the request is confirmed and signed electronically, it is sent to a judge to verify that all legal requirements are completed. Once the judge signs the document, the marriage contract will be documented and approved electronically, and it will be sent to the applicants via text message and email.

The fee for the marriage certificate issuance is Dh220, and there are specific terms and conditions to be eligible for the service. The applicants must be non-Muslims, one of the parties must be a resident of Dubai, and both applicants must be aged 21 years or over.

This new service makes it easier and faster for non-Muslim couples in Dubai to complete their civil marriage ceremony and have their marriage recognized by the government. It also brings more convenience to the residents of Dubai, who can now complete their marriage formalities without much hassle and time delay.

Overall, the new civil marriage service is a positive step towards ensuring the personal status rights of non-Muslim nationals and expats in the UAE. It is also a testament to the UAE government’s commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for its residents.

Summary of article by: Nandini Sircar
Published: Tue 14 Feb 2023, 6:00 AM
Last updated: Tue 14 Feb 2023, 1:50 PM

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