UAE Introduces New Personal Status Law: Key Changes for Families in 2025

UAE Issues New Personal Status Law to Strengthen Family Stability and Social Cohesion

The UAE has introduced a new personal status decree-law aimed at enhancing family stability, protecting the rights of family members, and fostering social cohesion. Announced on Wednesday, this law includes key amendments addressing issues such as parental abuse, child custody, and marital disputes.

Key Amendments in the New Law

1. Penalties for Abuse and Neglect
   
   • Strict penalties will apply for mistreating, abusing, neglecting, or abandoning parents.
   • Failing to provide financial support to parents, when required, will also incur penalties.
2. Protection of Minors’ Rights
   
   • Penalties will be imposed for:
     • Assaulting a minor’s property.
     • Traveling with a minor without permission.
     • Squandering inheritance.
     • Embezzling estate funds.
3. Wills and Inheritance
   
   • Additional provisions have been introduced for regulating wills.
   • Inheritance, wills, and urgent or temporary cases related to alimony and custody are exempt from referral to family reconciliation and guidance centres.
4. Marriage and Divorce
   
   • The legal age for marriage is now set at 18 years.
   • Rules have been established to allow the transfer of guardianship for marriage to the court, streamlining the marriage process.
   • Either spouse can now request a divorce if the other is addicted to drugs, alcohol, or psychoactive substances.
5. Child Custody and Best Interests
   
   • The law prioritizes the best interests of the child in custody disputes.
   • Children aged 15 and above have the right to choose which parent to live with.
6. Family Reconciliation Centres
   
   • Judges now have the discretion to refer cases to family reconciliation and guidance centres to expedite procedures.

Impact on Society

The new law is a significant step towards addressing evolving societal challenges while reinforcing family and community values. By introducing stricter measures against neglect and abuse, the law aims to protect vulnerable family members and ensure accountability.

The amendments also modernize marriage and divorce proceedings, offering greater flexibility and clarity in situations involving substance addiction or guardianship issues. For children, the emphasis on their best interests and granting them a say in custody decisions aligns with international standards for child welfare.

Legal Guidance and Support

For detailed guidance on navigating the complexities of the new personal status law, Al Kabban & Associates offers comprehensive legal services to assist individuals and families in understanding and complying with these changes. Our experienced team is ready to assist companies and clients in ensuring full compliance with the new laws and optimizing operational practices. Contact us to speak to one of our expert lawyers today.

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