Divorce Between Two Different Nationalities In The UAE A Practical Guide

An international marriage can connect a family to several countries. The spouses may hold different passports, have married in a third country and now live in the UAE. Their children, property and financial commitments may add further connections.

A divorce between two different nationalities in the UAE requires those connections to be examined carefully. The initial questions concern which court can hear the case, which law governs the issues and where the eventual decision will need to be recognised. The answers help determine the documents, applications and advice required.

Record the family connections before choosing a route

Begin with each spouse's nationality, any additional citizenship, religion, current residence and residence history. Record where and when the marriage took place and identify the authority that issued the certificate.