Getting married online in UAE: Conditions, required documents, process explained
In a groundbreaking move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a novel concept of remote weddings, allowing couples to solemnize their union through an online process. This innovative service, initiated by the Dubai Courts, aims to simplify and streamline the marriage procedures, making it more accessible to residents. The introduction of remote civil marriages is part of the UAE's ongoing efforts to enhance government services and embrace digital transformation.
The Dubai Courts unveiled this pioneering service, including the 'Remote Civil Marriage' and 'Digital Attestation' services, in October 2023. The remote civil marriage service specifically caters to non-Muslim residents in Dubai, offering them the opportunity to obtain an officially recognized and authenticated electronic marriage contract. Notably, this electronic contract does not require additional attestations if used within the UAE. However, for this convenience, one of the parties must be a resident of Dubai, and both individuals must be at least 21 years old.
To engage in an online wedding, couples are required to adhere to specific conditions and submit essential documents. The key conditions for remote civil marriage by Dubai Courts include both parties being unmarried, both being non-Muslims, at least one party being a resident of Dubai with an Emirates ID card, and the couple having a minimum age of 21 years. Additionally, authenticated certificates of the social status of both parties (indicating that they are single) from their respective embassies are necessary. If these documents are issued outside the UAE, they must be certified by the relevant official authorities, with all documents submitted in PDF format. Non-Arabic documents must be translated into Arabic by a certified legal translation entity from the UAE's Ministry of Justice.
Moreover, documents issued from outside the UAE need additional certification from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the respective country, the UAE embassy in that country, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the UAE. Dubai Courts have implemented an automated system for contract stages, encompassing authorization, certification, and correction processes. This automation significantly streamlines the experience for clients, involving communication with accredited centers, submitting electronic requests, paying requisite fees, and receiving the approved electronic contract.
Looking ahead, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has introduced plans for a videoconferencing matrimonial service that will allow residents to apply for a marriage contract electronically. This service offers the convenience of receiving approvals and completing payment procedures online. The ADJD showcased the videoconferencing software at Gitex Global 2023 in Dubai. The videoconferencing technology will enable individuals to remotely book an appointment for signing the marriage contract, making the entire process more convenient and accessible.
Applicants for digital weddings must use UAE Pass to avail themselves of the digital service. The steps involve applying for the marriage contract electronically, waiting for approval, completing payment procedures online, and scheduling an appointment to sign the contract using WebEx – a web conferencing tool. The final marriage contract, featuring digital signatures of both parties, will be delivered electronically.
This forward-looking initiative reflects the UAE's commitment to embracing technological advancements and enhancing citizen services. The introduction of remote weddings revolutionizes the matrimonial landscape, offering greater convenience and accessibility for couples seeking to formalize their union in the digital age.
For More Related Updates Please Visit Our Official Website
By- Sahiba Suri
Comments