The United Arab Emirates is set to implement significant changes to its federal personal status law starting April 15, 2025. This new legislation introduces groundbreaking provisions that aim to modernize and streamline various aspects of family law in the country. The updated law is characterized by its flexibility, simplified procedures, and unified legal concepts, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to progress and societal development.
One of the most notable changes is the empowerment of women in marriage decisions. Women now have the right to choose their spouse, even if their guardian objects. For non-citizen Muslim women, guardian consent is not required if their nationality law doesn’t mandate it. The legal marriage age has been set at 18 years, with provisions for individuals over 18 to appeal to a judge if their guardian refuses consent.
The law also addresses age differences in marriages, requiring court permission for unions where the age gap exceeds 30 years. It provides a legal definition of engagement, clarifying that it is a promise of marriage but not equivalent to marriage itself. Regarding gifts given during engagements, the law stipulates conditions for their return, particularly for valuable items exceeding 25,000 dirhams.
Custody and parental rights have been significantly updated, with the age for custody termination raised to 18 years for both genders. Wards aged 15 and above can now choose which parent to live with, and educational authority is granted to the custodial mother. The law also clarifies that leaving the house or working does not violate marital obligations, emphasizing family welfare.
The new legislation introduces strict penalties for offenses such as misappropriating minors’ property or traveling with wards without permission. Fines range from 5,000 to 100,000 dirhams, with the possibility of imprisonment for severe cases. These changes reflect the UAE’s commitment to protecting the rights of children and ensuring responsible parenting.
Overall, the updated federal personal status law represents a significant step forward in modernizing family law in the UAE, balancing traditional values with contemporary needs and global standards.
