New Personal Status Law in the U.A.E

Thursday 9 November 2023

New Personal Status Law in the U.A.E:  

New Personal Status Law in U.A.E

Thenew Personal Status Law in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which came intoeffect on February 1, 2023, is a landmark piece of legislation that introduces severalsignificant changes to the way that personal status matters are dealt with inthe country.

 The law applies to all non-Muslim residents of the UAE, and it covers a wide range of issues, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance. One of the most significant changes introduced by the law is the recognition of civil marriage. Under the previous law, non-Muslim couples could only get married in a religious ceremony, but the new law now allows them to get married in a civil ceremony before a judge. 

The law also makes it easier for couples to get a divorce. Under the previous law, divorce was only possible if one spouse could prove fault on the part of the other spouse. However, the new law introduces a system of "no-fault divorce," which means that either spouse can get a divorce without having to prove fault. 

The law also makes several changes to the way that child custody is determined. Under the previous law, child custody was automatically awarded to the mother in the event of a divorce. However, the new law now gives judges more flexibility in determining child custody, and they will take into account the best interests of the child when making a decision.

 Finally, the law also makes a number of changes to the law of inheritance. Under the previous law, inheritance was governed by Islamic law. However, the new law now allows non-Muslims to choose to have their inheritance governed by the laws of their home country. 

The new Personal Status Law is a welcome development for non-Muslim residents of the UAE. It provides them with greater legal certainty and protection, and it brings the UAE into line with other international jurisdictions in terms of personal status law. 

Here are some of the key features of the new Personal Status Law in the UAE: