Dubai law: Are interfaith marriages allowed in the emirate?

Question: I am an expat and if I am to marry my girlfriend, who is not of my faith, is it possible here? Can you explain the procedure? My girlfriend and I both don’t have any close family members here.

Response: Pursuant to your queries, it is assumed that you are a non-Muslim male and intend to marry your girlfriend in Dubai. Therefore, the provisions of Federal Law No. (28) of 2005 On Personal Status (the ‘Personal Status Law of UAE’) are applicable.

Dubai and the UAE are globally recognised for accepting various cultures of the world where people of various nationalities and religions reside. Due to its vibrant cosmopolitan culture, it is home to people following various faiths. The leadership of the UAE is tolerant and benevolent towards all religions.

In Dubai, non-Muslim marriages are recognised if they are conducted in churches, Hindu or Sikh temples that are approved by the Community Development Authority of Dubai. Further, interfaith marriages (non-Muslims) are usually performed in the respective embassy or consulate of the bridegroom or bride.

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Ashish Mehta is the founder and Managing Partner of Ashish Mehta & Associates. He is qualified to practise law in Dubai, the United Kingdom and India. Full details of his firm on: www.amalawyers.com. Readers may e-mail their questions to: news@khaleejtimes.com or send them to Legal View, Khaleej Times, PO Box 11243, Dubai.