For many expats living in the UAE, the idea of a simple and private legal marriage is appealing. A rising inquiry among couples is whether a court marriage without witness in the UAE can be done.

Witnesses have always been a part of legal marriage proceedings, but new laws, particularly for non-Muslims, are shifting the landscape.

Here, we detail when this kind of marriage is allowed, the eligibility criteria, and the different legal paths for Muslim and non-Muslim couples.

Legal Requirements for Court Marriage in the UAE

To determine the feasibility of court marriage without witness in the UAE, here are the conventional steps:

• Muslim Couples: Require two male Muslim witnesses and the bride’s Wali.
• Non-Muslim Couples: Civil procedures in emirates like Abu Dhabi may not require witnesses under new laws.

Documents such as passports, Emirates IDs, and medical certificates are required for all court marriages.

Is Court Marriage Without Witness Allowed in the UAE?

The answer is not straightforward—it depends on your religion and where the marriage takes place in the UAE.

In Muslim marriages, witnesses are an essential part of the procedure under Sharia law, and there are no exceptions to this rule.

However, non-Muslim couples now have the option to marry without witnesses, thanks to a new legal change in Abu Dhabi’s Civil Family Court.

This shift has made it easier for many expats to marry in a more private manner.

Where Can You Have a Court Marriage Without Witness?

In Abu Dhabi, the Civil Family Court allows non-Muslim couples to marry without witnesses or guardians, offering a streamlined process that is ideal for:

• Couples who wish to keep their marriage private.
• International couples unable to arrange witnesses locally.
• Professionals who prefer a legal, non-religious union.
  

On the other hand, Dubai and other emirates still require witnesses for Muslim marriages, governed by Sharia law.

Sharia Law vs Civil Law: Witness Requirements

In the UAE, Sharia law requires two adult male witnesses for every Muslim marriage. As a result, a court marriage without witness is not permitted for Muslim couples in any of the emirates. The marriage contract will only be valid if witnesses are present.

Non-Muslim couples are not governed by Sharia law in civil courts, which makes it possible for them to have a court marriage without witness in Abu Dhabi, provided they meet the necessary criteria.

Benefits and Risks of Court Marriage Without Witness

Benefits

• Simplicity: A faster process, eliminating the need to coordinate with external witnesses.
• Privacy: This option is particularly suitable for couples who value discretion.
• Accessibility: Non-Muslims are free from religious or nationality-based restrictions when opting for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi.

Risks

• Limited Jurisdictions: A court marriage without witness is only valid in specific legal jurisdictions, such as Abu Dhabi. If done improperly (e.g., in a Sharia court), the marriage may be invalidated.
• Legal Compliance: Couples must ensure they comply with the proper legal channels according to their faith and status.

Conclusion

While court marriage without witness is not allowed for Muslim couples under UAE law, non-Muslim couples in cities like Abu Dhabi can legally marry without witnesses. The most important step is understanding whether Sharia law or civil law applies to your marriage.

Planning a court marriage without witness? Contact Easy Wedding for expert legal advice to ensure your marriage is protected under UAE law.

For a hassle-free and private wedding experience, reach out to us today.