The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has witnessed a surge in civil marriage applications, surpassing the 10, 000 mark since the implementation of Law No. 14 of 2021 on civil marriage in the emirate. This translates to an average of 40 applications submitted daily, signifying Abu Dhabi's growing appeal as a destination for civil unions.
Yousef Saeed Alabri, Undersecretary of the Judicial Department, attributed this success to the vision of the UAE's leadership in establishing a progressive judicial system. The Civil Family Court for Foreigners, established under this initiative, has emerged as a role model for handling family matters involving expatriates.
A key factor driving this trend is the court's efficiency. The ADJD boasts a fully electronic system, streamlining the application process from registration to completion. This paperless approach ensures swift case management, with an average of four applications processed every working hour.
Furthermore, the introduction of the "Express" civil marriage service caters specifically to tourists. This service allows couples to finalize their marriage within 24 hours, making Abu Dhabi an attractive option for destination weddings.
Looking ahead, the ADJD is committed to providing exceptional judicial services for all nationalities. Their bilingual court system, offering both Arabic and English forms and judgments, ensures clear communication and upholds the rights of foreigners seeking civil marriage in Abu Dhabi.
This rise in civil marriage applications underscores Abu Dhabi's transformation into a global hub for families. The emirate's progressive legal framework, coupled with its commitment to efficient and multilingual services, positions it as a frontrunner in catering to the evolving needs of a diverse population.