DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates has introduced new family laws to strengthen family stability and protect individual rights.
The new federal decree-law on personal status is aimed at enhancing family stability and protecting individual rights, Gulf News reported.
Key aspects of the law include setting the legal marriage age at 18 and allowing court intervention if a guardian unjustly denies a woman the right to marry her chosen partner. The law also revises the rules for recovering gifts and dowries after broken engagements, ensuring fairness.
In marital disputes, either spouse can now file for divorce if addiction to narcotics or intoxicants causes harm.
The arbitration period for such cases is reduced to 60 days. Husbands must now document divorces within 15 days to protect wives’ rights and facilitate compensation claims.
The law also prioritizes child welfare in custody decisions. Custody will extend to 18 years for both genders, with children aged 15 and above allowed to choose their preferred parent. In cases with non-Muslim mothers, courts will make decisions based on the child’s best interests.
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Penalties have been introduced for neglecting or refusing to care for parents, with fines up to $27,000 (Dh100,000) or imprisonment for severe offenses. Family court judges will also make decisions based on Islamic principles.
These reforms will take effect on 15 April, offering greater protection for minors and elderly parents, according to Khaleej Times.
