By dubailife 
New UAE Personal Status Laws: Key Changes and Implications
The UAE’s revised personal status laws, set to take effect on April 15, introduce significant updates to safeguard vulnerable groups, including minors and elderly parents, while ensuring justice and family well-being. Under the new regulations, violators could face penalties of up to Dh100,000 and even imprisonment for specific offenses.
Protecting Minors and Custody Rights
One of the notable provisions addresses custodians traveling with a child under their care. Without the consent of the child’s guardian or court approval, such actions can lead to imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh100,000. The law prioritizes the best interests of the child, granting children the right to choose which parent they wish to live with upon reaching the age of 15.
Custody rules have also been revised:
- The custody age has been standardized at 18 years for both boys and girls.
- Non-Muslim mothers now have extended custodial rights, as courts will base decisions on the child’s welfare, replacing the previous restriction ending custody at the child’s age of five.
Addressing Elderly Neglect
The decree imposes strict penalties on individuals who neglect, abuse, or refuse to care for their parents, emphasizing familial duty. Anyone found guilty of abandoning their parents or failing to provide care despite being financially capable faces imprisonment and fines between Dh5,000 and Dh100,000. Similar penalties apply to those who fail to comply with court rulings mandating financial support for their parents.
Safeguarding Estates and Heir Rights
The law introduces harsh repercussions for individuals who conceal, misuse, or destroy any part of an estate, including fraudulent seizure of assets. Offenders may face fines of up to Dh100,000 or imprisonment, regardless of whether they are heirs.
Streamlining Marital Provisions
The updated laws include several revisions aimed at simplifying marriage and engagement procedures:
- Legal Age for Marriage: Set at 18 years, with exceptions requiring court approval.
- Dowry and Gift Regulations: Gifts conditional on marriage or valued above Dh25,000 must be returned if the engagement is broken, provided they still exist. Equivalent monetary value will be considered if they are no longer available.
- Marriage Guardianship: Women can now transfer marriage guardianship to the court, empowering them to marry suitable partners without a guardian’s consent. This is particularly beneficial for Muslim residents whose national laws do not mandate a guardian for marriage contracts.
Enhancing Legal Efficiency
To expedite legal proceedings:
- The arbitration period for annulment lawsuits has been reduced from 90 days to 60 days, ensuring faster resolution of marriage contract disputes.
- Judges have greater discretion to address family matters through family reconciliation centers, fostering amicable solutions.
Implications for Families
These amendments underscore the UAE’s commitment to enhancing family welfare and promoting justice. By addressing modern societal challenges, the laws aim to balance cultural values with individual rights. Residents should familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and leverage their benefits in family-related matters.
With its progressive outlook, the UAE continues to strengthen its legal framework, promoting inclusivity and protecting its diverse population.
Source : Khaleejtimes