Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE Cabinet has introduced a groundbreaking Personal Status Law, which sets the minimum age for marriage at 18 and includes several reforms to address family matters comprehensively. The new legislation represents a significant milestone in modernizing the country's legal framework. Among the most notable changes is the minimum marriage age of 18, a first in the UAE. This aims to prevent underage marriages and align with international human rights standards. Additionally, the law offers provisions for reclaiming high-value gifts exceeding Dh25,000 if an engagement is called off, ensuring equitable resolutions for both parties. The law simplifies marriage for women facing unjustified opposition from guardians. Courts can now transfer guardianship in such cases, safeguarding a woman’s right to marry with her consent. Non-Muslim women also benefit, as guardianship requirements are waived if their national laws do not mandate it. In a landmark decision, the law prioritizes child welfare in custody disputes. Custody now extends until the child turns 18, a significant change from the previous age limits of 11 for boys and 13 for girls. Once children reach 15, they can choose which parent to reside with, reflecting the law’s child-centric approach. Divorce procedures have also been streamlined. The arbitration period for resolving disputes has been reduced to 60 days from the previous 90, ensuring quicker resolutions. Grounds for divorce now include substance addiction, safeguarding individuals from harmful relationships. The law further ensures transparency in marital dissolution by requiring husbands to document divorces or reconciliations within 15 days. Failure to do so entitles the wife to compensation equivalent to alimony. Penalties have been introduced for offenses such as child neglect, abuse, and unauthorised travel with a child. These range from fines of Dh5,000 to Dh100,000 or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation. ICA/Expat Media
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