Sharia Marriage in Dubai for Tourists: 2025 Guide
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Dubai is a modern city with deep Islamic roots. As a Muslim country, it follows Sharia law for all Muslim marriages. Many Muslim tourists choose to get married here, but it’s important to know the rules.
Sharia marriages are allowed for tourists, but they can only be conducted in person- Sharia marriage. This means that the physical presence of both the bride and groom is necessary. In some cases, the court may ask for proof of residency from one partner. Online Sharia marriage in Dubai isn’t allowed for tourists.
In this blog, we will explain the process, requirements, and what to expect when planning a Sharia marriage in Dubai as a tourist.
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What are Sharia Marriages?
Sharia marriages are Islamic marriages conducted according to Sharia law, which is derived from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). These marriages are religious contracts between a man and a woman, performed in the presence of two Muslim witnesses and a guardian (wali) for the bride.
Key elements include:
- Consent of both parties
- Mahr (a mandatory gift from the groom to the bride)
- Marriage contract (Nikah)
- Witnesses and wali present
Sharia marriages are recognized in most Muslim countries and form the legal basis for marriage under Islamic law.
Sharia Marriage Laws in Dubai
Like the rest of the Muslim countries, the UAE also follows Sharia marriage laws for Muslim marriages. This means that if a Muslim man wants to marry a Muslim woman, they have to follow Sharia marriage laws.
The Sharia marriage laws also allow Muslim men to marry women from ‘Ahl Al-Kitaab‘, such as Christians. However, Muslim women can’t marry men other than Muslims.
Legal Requirements for Sharia Marriage in Dubai for Tourists
If two Muslims, a man and a woman, who are tourists in Dubai, want to do a Sharia marriage in Dubai, they must meet the following requirements.
1. The legal age for marriage is 18 Hijri years. If either partner is younger, they must get the judge’s approval.
2. The spouse’s age should not be more than twice that of the other. Judicial approval is needed when one spouse is more than twice as old as the other.
3. Attendance of the couple is required.
4. Moreover, the bride’s father or guardian also needs to be present alongside two witnesses.
5. A divorced or widowed woman must present official proof of her marital status.
6. If the bride is Muslim and her father follows a different faith, she must provide a ‘No Objection’ letter issued by her embassy or consulate.
7. Once the marriage is done, they need to register the marriage contract in the Sharia court.
Documents Requirements for Sharia Marriage in Dubai for Tourists
Generally, tourists need the following documents to do a sharia marriage in Dubai:
Required Documents:
- Valid Passports – Both the bride and groom must have original and valid passports.
- Valid UAE Visit Visa or Entry Stamp – Proof of legal stay in the UAE. However, sometimes, the court might approve their marriage without the need for a residency visa.
- Birth Certificates – Not always required, but good to have, especially for embassy documentation.
- Marital Status Certificate – Proof that both parties are single, divorced, or widowed (issued by the respective home country or embassy).
- Pre-marital Medical Certificate – Issued by a UAE government-approved health center.
- Two Muslim Male Witnesses – With original passports or Emirates ID.
- Bride’s Guardian (Wali) – Mandatory for first-time marriages.
- Divorce or Death Certificate (if applicable) – Must be attested if previously married.
- Conversion Certificate (if applicable) – If one of the spouses converted to Islam, proof is required.
Step-by-Step Process of Sharia Marriage For Tourists in Dubai
Once the tourists gather the required documents and meet all the legal requirements as stated above, they need to follow these steps to complete the Sharia marriage in Dubai.
Step 1: Apply for a Marriage Permit
Tourists must first apply for a marriage permit at either the Dubai Court or an authorized Sharia court. The court will review the application and determine if the couple is eligible for marriage in the UAE.
Step 2: Submit Documents and Pay Fees
The couple must submit the required documents, such as passports and proof of legal eligibility to marry. After submitting the paperwork, they will need to pay the necessary fees to proceed.
Step 3: Attend the Marriage Contract Ceremony
The couple then attends the marriage contract ceremony (Aqd Nikah) at the court, where they will be married in the presence of two Muslim male witnesses. The marriage contract is officially signed by the couple, the witnesses, and the officiant.
Step 4: Receive the Official Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, the couple will receive an official marriage certificate. If needed, they can get the certificate attested to be used in their home country for legal purposes.
Pitfalls Tourists Must Avoid in Dubai Sharia Marriage
1. Incomplete documentation
Missing even one required document can delay or cancel the marriage process. Always double-check with the Dubai court or your embassy before applying.
2. Unattested foreign documents
Foreign documents must be legalized and translated into Arabic to be accepted. Without proper attestation, your application will be rejected.
3. Delaying appointment bookings
Court schedules and medical clinics can get booked up quickly. Waiting too long to book can push your ceremony date much further than planned.
4. Choosing unqualified translators or typing centers
Improper Arabic translations or document errors from unofficial centers can lead to rejection. Always use certified translators and typing offices approved by the UAE authorities.
Is online Sharia marriage allowed for tourists in Dubai?
No, online Sharia marriage is not allowed for tourists in Dubai. They can only do an in-person Sharia marriage in Dubai with the court’s approval.
Can I get married in Dubai on a tourist visa?
Yes, tourists can do a Sharia marriage in Dubai on a tourist visa with a special approval from the court. Contacting a wedding planner in Dubai can make the process more convenient and smooth.
Final Words
Getting married under Sharia law in Dubai as a tourist is possible, but it requires careful preparation and full compliance with local rules. From gathering the right documents to attending the ceremony in person, every step must be handled with precision.
Make sure to plan ahead, understand the legal requirements, and avoid common pitfalls to ensure a smooth process. For added ease, consider working with a professional wedding planner familiar with Dubai’s legal system. With the right guidance, your Sharia marriage in Dubai can be a meaningful and legally recognized beginning to your new life together.
Disclaimer: Please note that rules and regulations may change over time. For the most current information, feel free to contact us.
