Over 10,000 Foreigners File for Civil Marriages in Abu Dhabi in H1 of 2025, Bringing Total Contracts to 43,000

Over 10,000 civil marriage applications were submitted by tourists and expatriates in Abu Dhabi during the first six months of 2025, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department announced.

The figure marks a 20 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, raising the total number of registered civil marriage contracts to 43,000 since the introduction of Law No. 14 of 2021 on civil marriage in Abu Dhabi.

 

Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, said the rising demand underscores the quality and uniqueness of the emirate’s civil marriage services, which are considered a first in the Middle East.

 

According to official statistics, registered civil marriages have grown sharply in under three years -- from around 5,400 in 2022 to more than 16,000 in 2024.

 

Al Abri added that Abu Dhabi has become a preferred destination for couples seeking civil marriage, supported by its dedicated Civil Family Court, which operates in both Arabic and English. The court allows foreigners to complete legal proceedings transparently, with clear understanding of each stage, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to inclusive justice.

 

The Civil Family Court offers a comprehensive range of services, including:

 

• Civil marriage contracts

• Pre-nuptial agreement notarisation

• No-fault civil divorce within 30 days, with financial experts assessing alimony and entitlements

• Automatic joint custody after divorce, ensuring equal parental rights

• Civil wills drafting and registration

• Equal inheritance distribution among children

 

All services are available electronically and do not require UAE residency, making them accessible to residents, visitors, and tourists alike. This integrated model ensures efficiency, reduces costs, and enhances client confidence in Abu Dhabi’s judicial system.

 

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