How To Register a Marriage or Divorce from Abroad in the UAE Courts
With today’s global mobility, many UAE residents marry or divorce outside the country. However, for the marriage or divorce to be legally recognized within the UAE, it must be properly registered in UAE courts. Whether you are an expatriate, a UAE national living abroad, or a couple with mixed nationalities, understanding this process is crucial for ensuring your personal status rights remain protected.
Why Registration Matters in the UAE
Marriage and divorce documents issued abroad are not automatically valid in the UAE. Proper registration is essential for:
- Updating UAE residency records
- Child custody, guardianship, or maintenance claims
- Property and inheritance rights
- Visa sponsorship and family residency applications
- Future marital or financial disputes
Without UAE court registration, individuals may face legal complications when dealing with government entities, banks, or immigration authorities.
People can also read: Understanding Your Rights During Police Investigation in the UAE
Registering a Foreign Marriage in the UAE
A marriage that took place abroad must be registered through a structured legal process:
1. Obtain an Attested Marriage Certificate
The certificate must be:
- Issued by the foreign authority
- Attested by the foreign ministry
- Attested by the UAE embassy or consulate in that country
Once in the UAE, it must also be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
2. Translate the Document into Arabic
All documents submitted to UAE courts must be in Arabic. A certified legal translation is required.
3. Submit to the Personal Status Court
The court will review:
- Authentication
- Parties’ identities and nationalities
- Compliance with UAE public order
Upon approval, the marriage becomes officially recognized.
Registering a Foreign Divorce in the UAE
Foreign divorces are more complex due to differences in legal systems and religious backgrounds.
1. Provide the Foreign Divorce Decree
The decree must undergo the same chain of attestations and MOFA verification.
2. Prove Jurisdiction and Validity
The UAE court must be satisfied that:
- The foreign court had legal authority
- Both parties were represented or notified
- The divorce process followed proper legal procedures
3. File a Petition for Recognition
The court then issues an order recognizing the divorce, making it enforceable within the UAE.
4. Address Related Family Matters
If the divorce involves children, additional UAE court decisions may be required for:
- Custody
- Visitation
- Child maintenance
- Travel permissions
How TLG: The Legal Group Assists With International Marriage and Divorce Registration
Saif Al Shamsi, founder of TLG: The Legal Group, provides specialized guidance for individuals dealing with cross-border marriage and divorce matters. His team supports clients by:
- Verifying attestations and document authenticity
- Preparing and submitting court applications
- Handling legal translations and procedural requirements
- Representing clients before UAE courts for recognition orders
- Advising on custody, maintenance, and related family matters
- Ensuring compliance with UAE Personal Status Law for Muslims and non-Muslims
Their experience working with international documents and different legal systems allows clients to complete the registration process without unnecessary delays or complications.
Conclusion
Registering a marriage or divorce obtained abroad is essential to ensure your rights and obligations are fully recognized within the UAE. By following the proper procedures—and with the right legal support—you can avoid future disputes, administrative issues, and personal status complications. Proper registration provides stability, clarity, and legal certainty for your family’s future.