Millions of Pakistani, Indian and Arab families live and work in Dubai and across the UAE. Many couples want to marry there instead of travelling home. The UAE updated its family law in 2025, so it is worth understanding the current rules before planning a wedding.
Quick facts
- The Federal Personal Status Law that took effect in April 2025 sets the minimum marriage age at 18.
- Muslim marriages are registered through the family courts (for example, Dubai Courts).
- Premarital medical screening is required for UAE citizens and is commonly requested for other couples marrying in court.
- Non-Muslim expats can choose civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or marry through their embassy or place of worship.
The new Personal Status Law
Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 came into force on 15 April 2025. Among the main changes for marriage:
- The minimum age for marriage is 18 for both men and women.
- A woman’s consent is essential. If her guardian refuses a suitable match without good reason, she can ask the court to allow the marriage.
- When there is a very large age difference between the partners, the court must approve the marriage first.
- Gifts given during engagement can, in some cases, be returned if the engagement is broken.
Marriage for Muslim expats in Dubai
Muslim residents, including Pakistani and Indian expats, can usually marry at a UAE family court. The marriage contract is concluded by an authorised marriage officer and registered officially.
Documents commonly asked for include:
- Valid passports and Emirates IDs of the bride and the groom
- Proof of residence in the UAE
- The bride’s guardian (wali) and two adult Muslim male witnesses
- Premarital medical screening results from an approved health centre
- For previously married persons, a divorce or death certificate, attested where required
Rules and fees change from time to time, so always confirm with the court or the official u.ae portal before you book.
Civil and non-Muslim marriages
Abu Dhabi offers civil marriage for non-Muslim residents and visitors through its civil family court. Other options are marrying through your country’s embassy or consulate, or at a recognised church or temple. Hindu and Sikh couples from India often register through the Indian consulate or a recognised community body.
Getting your marriage recognised back home
If you marry in the UAE, your home country will usually ask for the marriage certificate to be legalised. This normally means attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and then by your own embassy. Pakistani couples later register the marriage with NADRA, while Indian couples may need to register it with the local registrar on return.
Emirati wedding customs
Traditional Emirati weddings are elegant and family-centred. Celebrations are often held separately for women and men. The bride’s henna night, known as Laylat Al Henna, is a highlight, with intricate designs, traditional music and perfumes such as oud. The groom’s family pays the mahr, which belongs to the bride.
Stay alert to fake offers
Some fraudsters target families with messages about “settled grooms in Dubai” or job-and-marriage packages. Never send money, passports or documents to unknown people. Read our guide to online marriage proposal scams.
This article is general information only and not legal advice. Please confirm current rules with UAE courts or an advocate licensed in the UAE.
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