3 Key Factors in a Successful Marriage in the UAE

Marriage is a lifelong bond between two individuals based on love, trust and respect for one another. In the UAE, marriage-related laws are put into place to protect the rights of both partners involved. Whether you are a UAE citizen or expats, an understanding of the emotional or legal basis for marriage is equally important.
The article explains the 3 main reasons for a successful marriage in the UAE based on the personal and legal aspects.
1. Clear Communication and Understanding Between Partners
Successful marriages depend on many things, but good communication is one of the most important elements. When two people talk openly and honestly, they prevent problems and build trust.
Why Communication is Important:
- Avoids Misunderstandings: Clear talking helps couples understand each other’s thoughts and feelings.
- Builds Trust: Sharing concerns, hopes, and ideas helps in creating a strong emotional bond.
- Managing Cultural Differences: In the UAE, many couples come from different countries and different backgrounds, and communication serves as an important tool for adapting to each other’s cultures and values.
Legal Tip:
Of course, besides emotional issues, couples should communicate clearly on matters that concern finances, family roles, and future planning. In accordance with the Law of the UAE, couples can also enter a pre-nuptial agreement to clearly mention their rights and responsibilities. It will be enforceable and would assist in avoiding disputes in the future.
2. Legal Marriage Requirements and Proper Documentation
Furthermore, marriage in the UAE is a legal process. Therefore, couples should always follow this law to make their marriage official and valid.
Requirements for the Legal Marriage in the UAE:
To legally marry in the UAE, the requirements differ based on whether the couple is Muslim or non-Muslim. The following summary indicates marriage requirements:
For Muslims:
- Identification: Both parties must provide valid identification.
- Witnesses: Two male Muslim witnesses are required.
- Medical Examination: A pre-marriage medical examination certificate must be obtained by all couples before marriage.
- Consent: Both parties must consent to the marriage.
- Age: The minimum age for marriage is 18 years.
For non-Muslims:
Non-Muslim citizens and residents in the UAE can use the UAE Personal Laws for Non-Muslims for marriage unless they decide to use the laws of their home countries. The Personal Status Court requires non-Muslim couples to fulfill these conditions before they can get married:
- Both must be at least 21 years old, proven by official documents.
- The couple must prove they are not related by blood as siblings or grandchildren or uncles according to the established regulations.
- Both partners must appear before a judge to confirm their marriage consent while demonstrating there are no legal barriers to the union.
- They must sign a disclosure form.
The Decree Law regulations may include further requirements.
Importance of having legal documents:
Without the legally required process, your marriage will not be considered to be officially recognized. This will result in problems regarding the application for a visa, inheritance issues, child custody problems, and even a divorce. Foreign couples who marry outside the UAE should register their marriage in the UAE to prevent future legal complications.
3. Mutual Respect and Legal Responsibilities
Respect holds the top position in a relationship between husband and wife. It is, moreover, a part of the law in the UAE. According to Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 (and amendments), both partners must care for one another and perform their roles.
The Main Duties of a Marriage:
- Financial Coverage: The husband must provide his wife with all the basic needs such as housing, food, clothes, etc. and take care of her medical expenses.
- Loyalty and Respect: Both spouses must remain loyal to one another and treat each other kindly.
- Joint Decisions: Both should make decisions regarding their family and future together.
Legal Protection:
If a spouse does not comply with his duties, the other spouse can approach Family Court. UAE courts also have mediation services to solve problems amicably before filing a case in the court.
Other Helpful Tips for a Strong Marriage in the UAE
In addition to the three key factors that provide a foundation, here are a few other suggestions that may help in keeping a marriage strong:
- Know the Local Laws and Culture: The local traditions and regulations of the UAE are to be respected.
- Religious Harmony: In interfaith marriages, mutual respect for each other’s religion is very important.
- Family Relationships: Families play a very important role in many marriages in the UAE. Therefore, having a good relationship with both families contributes to a healthy environment.
How Dubai Court Marriage Lawyers Can Help You
Marriage lawyers will help you in the legal procedures of the marriage to make the process smooth and less stressful. At Dubai Court Marriage, our legal team is well versed in both civil and Islamic marriages.
Services We Offer:
- Legal Advice: We advise you on your religion, nationality, and legal status in the UAE.
- Document Preparation: We assist in the preparation and verification of all documents that are required for marriage.
- Marriage Contracts: We draw up your marriage contract and include any special provisions that may be required to protect your rights.
- Translation and Attestation: We provide legal translation and attestation of documents when needed.
- Court Representation: We represent you in court to ensure that the marriage is legally complete and valid.
If you’re planning to get married in the UAE, let our marriage lawyer at Dubai Court Marriage help you with the legal process. We provide full support for civil and Islamic marriages, document preparation, and court registration. Contact us today to start your marriage journey with peace of mind.
Final Words
Marriage is a partnership based on love, respect, and understanding. In the UAE, it is also a legal contract that must be done properly. With good communication, following the legal procedures, and respect for each other’s rights, couples can have a happy and successful married life.