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Dubai, UAE

Can a Pakistani expat register a second marriage in the UAE without disclosing the first?

Hello,

I want to know the UAE rules regarding second marriage for expats. I am a Pakistani national and already have a wife back in my home country.

Now, I want to do a second marriage in the UAE with a Moroccan girl. Can you please let me know the procedure involved?

Can I get my marriage registered in the UAE? Is it mandatory to disclose the first marriage? I am on an employment visa in Dubai.

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Dar Al Haqooq Legal Consultancy
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3 Apr 2025, 04:45

Dear Client,

I hope this message finds you well!

Below is a detailed response to your query regarding the legal procedure and requirements for a second marriage in the UAE as a Pakistani national:

1. Legality of Second Marriage:

As a Muslim expatriate, you are permitted under Sharia law to marry a second wife, provided the marriage complies with Islamic principles and UAE regulations.

The marriage must be registered with the Sharia Court in the UAE to be legally recognized.

2. Marriage Registration Process:

To register the marriage, you will need the following documents:

- Valid passports and Emirates IDs for both parties.

- A premarital health screening certificate issued by a government-approved medical facility in the UAE.

- Proof of marital status (e.g., attested certificate confirming your first marriage).

- Two Muslim male witnesses.

3. Disclosure of First Marriage:

Under Sharia law, it is not mandatory to disclose your first marriage to your second wife or obtain consent from your first wife. However, fairness and equal treatment between both wives are required as per Islamic principles.

Additionally, some countries, such as Pakistan, may require first-wife consent for second marriages under their domestic laws.

4. Cross-Border Implications:

While the marriage can be legally registered in the UAE, you should ensure compliance with Pakistani family law regarding second marriages, as this may impact its recognition in your home country.

5. Recommendations:

- Legal Consultation: Engage a lawyer specializing in family law to guide you through the registration process and ensure compliance with UAE and Pakistani laws.

- Documentation: Ensure all required documents are properly attested and submitted to avoid delays or complications.

- Cultural Sensitivity: Consider discussing the matter openly with all parties involved to avoid potential disputes in the future.

Should you require further assistance or legal representation, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

ABDUL WAHIED

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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3 Apr 2025, 04:51

Dear questioner,

If you are doing a Muslim marriage, then there are no restrictions and no need to report, inform, or disclose the first marriage.

You can accomplish the second marriage.

If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.

3 Apr 2025, 05:43

[------------]. I’m available on WhatsApp and BOTIM till 6th April 2025 due to traveling. After 6th April 2025, I will be in Dubai and available to even discuss on call.

3 Apr 2025, 06:36

Our team will contact you shortly.

3 Apr 2025, 09:00

Thank you!

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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3 Apr 2025, 05:35

In the UAE, polygamy is legal for Muslim men, which means you can marry more than one wife. However, the law imposes certain conditions and requirements for a second marriage, including financial capability.

Requirements typically include pre-marital screening tests, valid passports, and potentially proof of marital status.

No need to disclose the first marriage. If you need further clarification, you may ask us.

3 Apr 2025, 08:26

At this stage, I do not want to disclose my first marriage, which means not providing a marital status certificate.

Can the marriage happen without this document? The rest of the documentation is no issue.

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Hend Humaid Alnuaimi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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3 Apr 2025, 06:03

The UAE has specific marriage laws for expatriates, including provisions for a second marriage, which allows a man to have up to four wives under Islamic Sharia.

As a Pakistani national considering marriage to a Moroccan girl, you must disclose your first marriage, meet eligibility criteria, gather necessary documents, apply for a marriage license, and register the marriage with the relevant authorities, all while adhering to the UAE's Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 regarding Personal Status.

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Abdulhamid Yousuf Albulooshi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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3 Apr 2025, 06:24

Greetings,

Marriage can be through the family court, and there is no objection to a second marriage. You have the freedom to disclose or not.

Best Regards,

3 Apr 2025, 08:27

Kindly share your contact number for further assistance.

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Future Vision Advocates Legal Consultancy
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3 Apr 2025, 06:46

Hello,

In the UAE, expatriates can marry under Sharia law or the laws of their home country, depending on their nationality and religion. Here are key points regarding second marriage for a Pakistani national:

- Marriage Registration: Yes, you can register your marriage in the UAE through the Dubai Courts or relevant authority.

- Disclosure of First Marriage: Under Pakistani law and UAE Sharia principles, a man must disclose his first marriage, and in some cases, obtain consent.

- Required Documents: Passport, Emirates ID, proof of marital status, and any required approvals from the Pakistani consulate.

- Legal Considerations: Ensure compliance with UAE laws and Pakistani family law, as unauthorized polygamy may have legal consequences.

For detailed guidance and to ensure a legally valid marriage, book a consultation with us today!

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Badr Legal Consultants
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3 Apr 2025, 07:25

Hello!

Yes, it is generally mandatory to disclose your first marriage when applying for a second marriage in the UAE, especially for legal and regulatory purposes.

Additionally, you may need to prove your financial capacity to support both wives and seek permission from the concerned authorities for the second marriage.

Since there are two different nationalities involved, certain documents from the embassies shall also be required.

Feel free to reach out at [----------] for further guidance.

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Mohamed Bakheet Advocates & Legal Consultants
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5 Apr 2025, 09:54

In the UAE, second marriage laws for expatriates are strictly regulated, and polygamy is a subject that is subject to strict monitoring by relevant authorities.

Here are the key points to know in this context:

1. Legal Procedures for Second Marriage:

In the UAE, men are legally permitted to marry a second time if they have a legitimate reason to do so. You must submit an application to the relevant authorities (such as the Sharia Court or the relevant authorities at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs) to obtain approval for the second marriage.

You must have acceptable reasons, such as the incapacity of the first wife or relationship problems.

2. Disclosure of First Marriage:

Men are required to disclose their first marriage when applying for a second marriage in the UAE. The person must inform the court or relevant authority of their first marriage for the second marriage to be approved. Failure to disclose their first marriage may result in legal liability.

3. Requirements for Second Marriage:

In the UAE, a husband must be able to fulfill his obligations to his wives and have sufficient income to provide for both wives and children, if they have any.

According to UAE law, a man must be able to meet the needs of the second wife in terms of maintenance, housing, and care. The first marriage must also be stable before the husband is permitted to marry a second wife.

4. Second Marriage in the UAE for Residents:

Foreigners residing in the UAE may marry UAE citizens or residents, provided that the marriage is approved by the relevant authorities. The marriage is conducted through Sharia courts, and the marriage must be officially registered after approval.

5. Required Documents:

Several documents must be submitted, such as a passport, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the first wife (if applicable), financial statements demonstrating the ability to assume responsibility for both wives, and other personal documents, such as an Emirates ID (if available).

If you wish to marry a second time in the UAE, you must apply to the relevant authorities and understand the approval requirements for each case.

If you are a resident of Dubai and comply with the legal regulations for second marriages, you can officially register after receiving approval.

If you need assistance with preparing the documents or submitting the application, please contact us by phone or WhatsApp at [----------].

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London Center for Legal Consultancy Office
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7 Apr 2025, 07:45

Hello,

For expatriates in the UAE, it is permissible to have a second marriage under certain legal conditions. As a Pakistani national with a wife in your home country, if you want to marry a Moroccan woman in the UAE, the following steps should be followed:

1. Documentation:

You will need approval from the relevant authorities in the UAE, such as the Family Court.

2. Disclosure of First Marriage:

You are required to disclose your first marriage, and you may be asked to provide relevant documents like the first marriage certificate.

3. Marriage Registration in Court:

The marriage will need to be registered in the Family Court in the UAE.

4. Required Documents:

These include your passport, Emirates ID, a no-objection certificate from the first wife (if requested by the court), and sometimes a medical report.

It is important to disclose your first marriage, as failure to do so can result in legal issues in the future.

Regarding your employment visa in Dubai, your marital status may be checked during the marriage registration process.

If you need further legal assistance or detailed guidance, our legal center can help with all procedures and ensure compliance with UAE law. You can contact us via WhatsApp for comprehensive legal advice.

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