Couples In Abu Dhabi Can Now Get Married In Just 15 Mins! Here’s How

Getting married usually sounds like paperwork, stress and long waiting periods. But in Abu Dhabi, some couples are now finishing the whole marriage ceremony process in around 15 minutes. The emirate’s Civil Family Court offers a fast-track civil marriage service that has become popular with expats, tourists and couples who just want a simpler process without a huge traditional setup. And honestly, compared to complicated wedding planning, this feels almost strangely efficient.

For Couples Who Want A Simple Wedding Process

A civil marriage in Abu Dhabi works differently from religious ceremonies. It’s handled through the court system instead of a religious institution.

Also, witnesses are not required. The court notary handles that part during the ceremony. The service mainly targets non-Muslim couples, but Muslim expats can also apply if they want to use the civil process. UAE nationals, however, cannot use this option.

One thing that surprises many people is this: you do not need to be a UAE resident to get married here. Even tourists visiting the country can apply.

What Couples Need Before Applying

Before anything else, both people must agree to the marriage willingly. They also need to be at least 18 years old and legally single.

Couples must provide documents, including passports, identification papers and divorce or death certificates if previously married.

Applications can be submitted through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department website or through typing centres across the city.

Some couples also choose to submit prenuptial agreements, although that comes with extra fees.

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The 15-Minute Express Wedding Option

This is probably the part getting most people’s attention.

The standard marriage service costs AED300 and usually takes around 10 working days to process.

But the express service costs AED2,500 and is much faster. Couples must apply on a working day for their applications to be processed the next working day and select a date and time for the ceremony, if available.

If the application is approved, couples go to the court, present documents and enter the ceremony room.

The vows are played through a recorded voiceover available in several languages. They can exchange rings, invite guests and even have photographers and videographers present for the ceremony.

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That said, if someone needs to reschedule, the court asks for at least 24 hours’ notice. Otherwise, couples may need to restart the process entirely.

For many expats living in the UAE, this system probably removes a lot of stress from getting legally married.

And for couples wanting something small, quick and official, it’s easy to see why interest in civil marriages in Abu Dhabi keeps growing.

Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Alexandr Baitelman from Getty Images