Can Iranian Get Married in UAE: A Clear Look at Marriage Laws for 2024
Thinking about a civil marriage in Iran? Your best option could lie beyond Iran’s borders.
In Iran, the Islamic legal framework does not recognise civil marriage, mandating that couples undertake Sharia marriage for legal recognition.
Many Iranians are thus driven to seek civil marriage options abroad that meet their personal or religious preferences while maintaining their legal status both in Iran and globally.
This article delves into the statistics, choices, and legal implications associated with civil marriage in Iran and its Sharia marriage counterpart.
Statistics on Iranian Marriage Requests in the UAE
From October 2023 to October 2024, Easy Wedding reported a 50% increase in marriage requests from Iranian nationals, suggesting a trend of seeking weddings outside Iran.
This rise is primarily driven by interest in cross-border marriages between the UAE and Georgia. Specifically, 82% of these couples include an Iranian partner paired with a foreign national, and 18% are entirely Iranian couples.
Top Wedding Destinations
The UAE is the leading choice, preferred by 46% of these couples, with Georgia attracting 24% and 23% opting for virtual ceremonies, showing a shift towards online marriage solutions. About 7% choose other diverse locations.
Types of Weddings
A significant 75% of couples in Iran go for civil marriage, mainly in Georgia or through Abu Dhabi courts. Traditional weddings are much less common, making up only 5% of total weddings. Religious ceremonies like Sharia marriages (Nikah) represent 4%, indicating some ongoing interest in religious weddings.
Religious Backgrounds of Couples
Interfaith marriages are on the rise, with 12% being Muslim brides to Christian grooms. About 32% of couples are both Muslim, highlighting the popularity of same-faith marriages.
Notably, 7% involve Muslim brides and men from other religions, with only 4% of non-Muslim couples choosing the UAE for their civil marriage in Iran.
Non-Muslim Marriage Permits
Remarkably, 16% of men are seeking permission to marry non-Muslim women, pointing to a broader acceptance of interfaith marriages. This trend reflects a change in how Iranians approach civil marriage in Iran and options abroad, navigating domestic and international legal landscapes.
Marriage Solutions for Iranians Abroad
Iranians seeking non-traditional marriage options have two primary choices. The straightforward civil marriage in Abu Dhabi is recognised globally, involves minimal paperwork, and has no religious requirements.
While civil marriage in Iran is not recognised, an alternative within Iran is a Shariah marriage, conducted by religious practices.
Georgia offers an appealing option for those seeking a civil marriage in Iran but abroad. Known for its simple marriage process and no residency requirements, Georgia and the UAE are famous for their stunning scenery and sophisticated wedding industry, making them ideal for destination weddings.
Marriage Legalisation in Iran
If you’re looking to get married in Iran, be aware that the only recognised form of marriage is through Shariah law. A civil marriage in Iran is not recognised legally, and engaging in one can result in charges of adultery.
Therefore, couples considering a civil marriage in Iran are advised also to conduct a Shariah wedding to ensure their marriage conforms to Iranian laws and is recognised as legally valid.
Marriage Legalisation in the US
Legal marriages from any country, including civil marriage in Iran and Shariah marriages, are recognised in the United States.
This enables couples to apply their marital status towards gaining sponsorship and residency, making the US a popular destination for relocating couples.
Conversion if One of the Partners is Non-Muslim
In the context of marriage in Iran with a non-Muslim partner, the regulations require that if the groom is non-Muslim and the bride is Muslim, he must convert to Islam. If the situation is reversed, with a Muslim groom and a bride from an Abrahamic faith, she does not need to convert.
Civil marriage in Iran is prohibited, but abroad, these restrictions do not apply, providing more options for civil marriage in Iran without conversion.
Sharia Marriage Requirements
- Legal marriage age in Saudi Arabia is 18 for both men and women.
- Foreigners must meet the same age requirements.
- Documentation proving marital status is required for marriage.
Civil Marriage Requirements
Civil marriages are not permitted in Saudi Arabia; couples often marry in Abu Dhabi. To undergo a civil marriage in Iran or similar, couples must travel to Abu Dhabi where civil marriage is legally recognized.
- The civil marriage in Iran process in Abu Dhabi can be completed in just 24 hours.
- Ensure all necessary documents are prepared in advance for a smooth civil marriage process.
- After registering the marriage in Abu Dhabi, couples can return to Saudi Arabia.
- The marriage will then be legally recognized in Saudi Arabia.
Easy Wedding: Your Quick Wedding Fix!
Struggling with the demands of civil marriage in Iran?
Consider our court wedding packages for an easy, unforgettable day. If you’re thinking about a civil marriage in Iran or options in Georgia or the UAE, Easy Wedding offers a rapid solution.
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FAQs
Can an Iranian marry a US citizen?
Yes, an Iranian can marry a U.S. citizen. This marriage can be formalized through civil marriage in Iran-like options in Abu Dhabi or Georgia, or by following Sharia marriage procedures if preferred.
Can a Muslim and a Christian get married in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes, either by converting the non-Muslim partner to Islam for a Sharia wedding or opting for a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi, which serves interfaith couples like a civil marriage in Iran.
Can an American-Iranian couple get married in Abu Dhabi if one partner is Muslim?
Yes, if the groom is Muslim. The couple can perform a Nikah and complete civil steps to ensure legal recognition, differing from a civil marriage in Iran, which mandates strict religious compliance.
How can I move to the US with my partner if I am Iranian?
You need to apply for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa or a spousal visa through the U.S. immigration process.
Do you get a visa if you marry an American?
Yes, marrying a U.S. citizen can make you eligible for a spousal visa or the green card process.
Do you lose U.S. citizenship if you marry an Iranian?
No, marrying an Iranian will not impact your U.S. citizenship status.
Does Iran allow civil marriage?
No, only Islamic Sharia law marriages are recognized in Iran.
How to get married in Iran with my foreign partner?
You can have your partner convert and marry under Sharia law in Iran, or choose a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or Georgia.
What are the requirements for marriage in Iran?
The requirements for a Sharia marriage in Iran include a valid passport, a Power of Attorney (POA) from the bride’s father, the Wali (guardian)’s presence, and additional local Islamic authority approvals.
How can I marry my American partner?
You can marry your American partner through a civil marriage in Abu Dhabi or Georgia. If you prefer Islamic law (Sharia) and you’re Muslim, a Nikah ceremony will be required.
