Under the Sharia Law applicable in Dubai and the UAE, marriage is the only legal bond for a man and a woman to establish a relationship and have children. The economic boom in the UAE has attracted a large number of professionals from around the world to settle down in Dubai and raise a family. Dubai is an ideal place to raise children in a safe environment, with facilities like top class schools and family entertainment options.
Marriage in Islam is a legal contract between a man and a woman, aimed at safeguarding the rights of the couple and their children. The marriage contract must be registered in a Sharia court in Dubai or other Emirate within the UAE, which ensures that the marriage meets legal requirements. For non-Muslims, marriage laws applicable in their home countries will be applied.
For Emirati nationals, both spouses along with their legal guardians and two Muslim witnesses, must be present. For expatriates, spouses should have valid Dubai residence visas. In case one of the spouses is on a visit visa, he/she must undergo a medical examination in Dubai before their marriage. Divorcees intending to marry must show adequate proof of their divorced status before proceeding further. In case of court marriage, Dubai Courts has some online services for marriage applicants with registration to be completed on the online portal, under eZawaj.
