Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Reports 8,886 Civil Marriages and Wills in Early 2026

This surge in civil marriages and wills reflects a growing trend of legal empowerment among expatriates in the UAE.

• 8,886 transactions were processed by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department from January 1 to March 25, 2026, including 4,320 civil marriages and 4,566 wills.
• Peak activity occurred between February 28 and March 25, with 2,614 transactions, indicating heightened demand for legal services.
• Simplified processes such as online applications and remote ceremonies have made these services more accessible to non-UAE nationals.

• Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 established civil family services for non-UAE nationals, allowing secular marriages and wills independent of religious affiliation.
• In 2025, there were 19,000 marriages and 11,000 wills registered, doubling the previous year's figures, driven by an influx of expatriates and property investments.
• Digital enhancements in legal processes have contributed to increased awareness and trust in the judicial system, leading to the recent surge in registrations.

The recent spike in civil marriages and wills processed by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department is a direct result of the legal framework established under Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021. This law was designed to cater specifically to non-UAE nationals, allowing them to engage in civil marriages and create wills without the constraints of religious affiliation. The law's introduction has been pivotal in attracting expatriates who seek legal recognition of their relationships and estate planning in a foreign country.

The Civil Family Court has streamlined the application process, enabling remote submissions and rapid licensing within 24 hours. This efficiency is particularly appealing to expatriates, who often face challenges navigating legal systems in their host countries. The ability to conduct remote ceremonies without residency requirements further enhances accessibility, making it easier for expatriates to formalize their marital status and secure their assets.

The surge in registrations is also indicative of a broader trend: as more expatriates invest in property and establish long-term residency in the UAE, there is a growing need for legal clarity regarding their rights and responsibilities. The increase in civil marriages and wills reflects a heightened awareness of the importance of legal documentation in safeguarding personal and financial interests.

Moreover, the global divorce jurisdiction offered by the Civil Family Court allows expatriates to manage their marital affairs more effectively, regardless of their home country. This feature is particularly attractive to those who may have complex international legal situations, as it provides a sense of security and predictability in an otherwise uncertain landscape.

As the UAE continues to position itself as a desirable destination for expatriates, the legal framework surrounding civil marriages and wills will likely evolve to meet the needs of this diverse population. The implications of these changes extend beyond individual expatriates; they contribute to the overall stability and attractiveness of the UAE as a long-term residence for foreign nationals.

• Expatriates: Non-UAE nationals benefit directly from streamlined legal processes for marriages and wills.
• Real estate investors: Individuals investing in property in the UAE gain clarity on legal rights and inheritance issues.
• Legal professionals: Lawyers and legal advisors see increased demand for services related to civil marriages and estate planning.

• Continued growth in registrations: Monitoring the number of civil marriages and wills processed in subsequent quarters will indicate ongoing trends in expatriate legal engagement.
• Changes in legal frameworks: Any amendments to Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 or related regulations could impact the accessibility and efficiency of these services.
• Expatriate population trends: Fluctuations in the expatriate population in the UAE may influence demand for civil marriage and will services.