Arab region's first civil marriage contract issued in Abu Dhabi

Two Canadians have been wed in the region's first civil arrangement offered by Abu Dhabi's new Non-Muslim Personal Status Court.

The contract is the first drawn up under the newly created Law No. 14 of 2021 on non-Muslims Personal Status in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which regulates family matters for non-Muslims in accordance with international best practices.

The Undersecretary of Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) Yousef Saeed Al Abri said the new civil marriage contract procedures set a precedent in the Arab region.

He explained that the new Civil Personal Status Law supports Abu Dhabi's effort to attract people with skills and expertise from around the world.

Al Abri said the Judicial Department is working to provide a flexible legal environment which guarantee non-Muslims the right to a civil legal framework that is close to them in terms of culture, customs and language and reflect the positive image and tolerance of the Islamic religion.

The happy couple expressed their thanks, gratitude and appreciation for the efforts made, commenting on the organisation, ease of application, and speed in concluding the authentication procedures.

The civil marriage registration service is now available on the official website of the Judicial Department, for both residents and visiting tourists.

The contracting and registration of marriage is done remotely through video conferencing technology, in accordance with the conditions and controls set by the law.

The Non-Muslim Personal Status Court was established in Abu Dhabi on 14 December, 2021.