Abu Dhabi: Couples from anywhere in the world can now officially get married online through the Abu Dhabi government’s TAMM app. They can do so without needing to visit the emirate in person.
The new digital marriage service represents a global milestone in civil registration technology. While the concept of online marriage is still emerging, it follows similar initiatives. For example, Ukraine’s government app began offering remote weddings for couples separated by war in 2023.
According to Mohamed Al Askar, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA), the service enables anyone, regardless of nationality or residence, to legally marry in Abu Dhabi.
“It’s open to everyone. Whoever wants to get married in Abu Dhabi, regardless of their nationality, can get the service online,” Al Askar told AFP during the Gitex Global Technology Fair in Dubai.
He added that users can complete the entire marriage process digitally. This includes submitting forms and uploading documents to book an officiant. They can conduct a virtual wedding ceremony without visiting a government office at all.
“People can do the whole transaction online. We are among the first governments in the world to offer such a complete service,” Al Askar said.
Abu Dhabi launches a first-of-its-kind online marriage service, allowing couples anywhere in the world to wed virtually within 24 hours for 800 dirhams ($218).#VirtualMarriage pic.twitter.com/YrD6dPwlLl
— The New Arab (@The_NewArab) October 15, 2025The online marriage process costs 800 dirhams ($218). Applicants can expect to complete all steps, including documentation and officiation, within 24 hours.
The service is available to UAE citizens, foreign residents, and non-residents. However, non-residents must appoint a lawyer or representative within the country to manage the process. The United Arab Emirates is the only Gulf nation that legally recognises non-religious civil marriages. This privilege is limited to foreign nationals.
Abu Dhabi has introduced a mobile app that facilitates online wedding ceremonies for 800 dirhams. The online service, overseen by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, enables couples, their witnesses, and the officiating officer to join the ceremony using mobile phones or laptops.… pic.twitter.com/mUNym1mSFO
— Emirates News (@Emirates_News) October 14, 2025The new digital marriage feature is included in the latest version of the TAMM app. This app consolidates over 1,000 government services into a single platform. Through TAMM, residents and visitors can access a variety of services related to healthcare, education, real estate, and public administration. The app has now expanded to include marriage registration as well.
The initiative expands upon the UAE’s previous pilot program established during the COVID-19 pandemic. It permitted remote marriage ceremonies for citizens and residents during lockdowns. This new version, however, allows participants from around the world to take part. As a result, Abu Dhabi becomes one of the first places globally to offer legally recognised virtual marriages.
