Planning a life together should begin with clarity, not uncertainty. A well-drafted marriage contract is not a sign of doubt — it is an act of mutual respect that protects both partners, whatever the future holds. Our family lawyers help couples enter marriage with confidence and complete peace of mind.
The UAE recognises the marriage contract as the foundation of the marital relationship. For Muslim couples, the Personal Status Law issued under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 permits spouses to include lawful stipulations in the marriage contract itself — covering matters such as the wife’s right to work or study, the family home, financial arrangements, and other conditions that do not conflict with the essence of marriage. If a stipulated condition is breached, the aggrieved spouse may have grounds to seek dissolution or other remedies.
For non-Muslim residents, Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status introduced civil marriage in the UAE and expressly allows couples to agree on the financial and personal terms governing their relationship, both during marriage and upon its dissolution. Couples in Abu Dhabi may also rely on Law No. 14 of 2021, which established the dedicated Civil Family Court. Foreign prenuptial agreements can carry weight before UAE courts, but their enforceability depends on proper drafting, attestation, and compatibility with UAE public order — which is why local legal review is essential before relying on an agreement signed abroad.
Whether you are drafting a new agreement or reviewing one signed overseas, precision matters. Ambiguous wording, missing attestations, or clauses that offend public policy can render an otherwise sound agreement unenforceable at the very moment you need it.
Draft bespoke prenuptial and marriage contract terms tailored to your circumstances, in Arabic and English
Review foreign prenuptial agreements and advise on their enforceability before UAE courts
Advise on lawful stipulations that can be included in a Muslim marriage contract
Guide non-Muslim couples through civil marriage and associated financial agreements
Handle notarisation, attestation, and registration formalities from start to finish
Who this applies to: Couples planning to marry in the UAE (Muslim or non-Muslim), expatriates who married abroad under a prenuptial agreement, business owners seeking to protect company assets, and individuals entering a second marriage who wish to safeguard children from a previous relationship.
See also: Divorce & Marital Separation.
This page is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. All matters are handled with strict confidentiality. Law references last reviewed July 2026.
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