Family Laws in Dubai: A Practical Overview
If you’re planning to get married, divorced or handle a child custody case in Dubai, you’ll want the basics without the legal jargon. Dubai follows UAE federal law, but there are a few local quirks that matter. Below you’ll find the most common questions answered, plus the paperwork you’ll actually need.
Marriage Rules You Should Know
First off, the legal age to marry in Dubai is 18 for both men and women. If either partner is younger, you need a court order and consent from both parents. You can have a civil marriage at a notary office, which is faster and cheaper than a religious ceremony. Non‑UAE nationals usually have to present a valid passport, a residency visa, and a certificate of no impediment (or a single status letter) from their home country. All documents must be translated into Arabic and attested.
Polygamy is allowed for Muslim men, but each new marriage must be approved by the Ministry of Justice. The wife must be informed, and any financial settlement from previous marriages is taken into account. If you’re not Muslim, you can’t practice polygamy in the UAE.
Divorce, Custody and Alimony Made Simple
Divorces in Dubai can be filed at the Family Court or through a notary if both parties agree on the terms. A key factor is the law that governs the case – you can choose UAE law, the law of your home country, or the law of the place where you married, as long as both parties consent.
When it comes to children, the court’s priority is the child’s best interest. Mothers usually get primary custody for kids under 13, but fathers often receive visitation rights and financial support. Both parents must agree on schooling and health decisions, or the court will step in.
Alimony (spousal support) is calculated based on the husband’s income, the wife’s needs, and the length of the marriage. If you earn a salary, you’ll likely be asked to provide a monthly payment until the wife can support herself. For non‑working spouses, the court may order a lump‑sum settlement.
Inheritance follows Sharia law for Muslims, which gives the father a larger share than the mother and allocates specific portions to sons and daughters. Non‑Muslims can draft a will to distribute assets according to their own wishes, but the will must be notarized and registered in Dubai.
One practical tip: keep copies of all certificates, marriage contracts, and court orders in both English and Arabic. This saves you time if you need to prove anything later on.
Finally, if you’re an expatriate, consider consulting a local lawyer who understands both UAE law and the law of your home country. It may cost a bit upfront, but it prevents costly mistakes down the road.
Dubai’s family laws are straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you’re tying the knot, ending a marriage, or sorting out child matters, start with the right documents and a clear idea of which law applies. That way you can focus on the personal side while the legal side stays under control.
