Amendments To UAE Personal Status Law

The UAE Personal Status Law governs the matters and disputes related to family and domestic subjects, including marriage, divorce, and custody of children, inheritance, and distribution of joint assets, alimony, and guardianship. It is primarily based on Islamic Sharia principles for Muslims, but recent amendments have introduced further rules specifically for non-Muslim residents in UAE. Let us have a comprehensive discussion of the UAE Federal Laws and its amendments.

1. Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 Amended in 2025

This Federal law governs the family matters. These family matters are including marriage, divorce, child custody, alimony inheritance, and maintenance. The new 2025 amendments are quite progressive measures, especially for non-Muslims expatriates.

2. Federal Law No. 41 of 2022

Federal Law No.41 of 2022 on civil personal status for Non-Muslims. This federal law allows non-Muslim residents in UAE to have civil marriages, no-fault divorces. They can also have equal inheritance rights like their own laws. We have explained no-fault divorce in details.

3. Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 (WADEEMA LAW)

WADEEMA Law based on Federal Law No.3 of 2016. The law ensures well-being of children. We have one article on WADEEMA Law. Readers can read it.

4. Federal Law No. 5 of 1985

This law governs general legal principles related to contracts and property rights.

5. Federal Law No. 7 of 2012 on Family Protection

Federal law No 7 of 2012 on Family Protection. This law protects women and children against domestic abuse and violence.

1. Marriage Regulations

• The new amendments allows civil marriages for non-Muslim residents in UAE courts.
• Legal age for marriage is 18 years.
• Pre-marital agreements are now legally recognized.

2. Divorce and Separation

• No-fault divorce is now permitted in UAE, for non-Muslims.
• Divorcing spouses have to go through, mediation before getting in to legal proceedings.
• Post-divorce alimony rules have been revised.

3. Child Custody

• Interest of the child is primary factor in custody custody decisions.

4. Inheritance & Wills

• Non-Muslims can now register wills under UAE law.
• Islamic inheritance laws apply on Muslim residents.
• Women’s inheritance rights have been strengthened.

5. Domestic Violence Protections

• Punishments for domestic violence and child abuse.
• Emergency protection orders.
• Law enforcement is given greater power to intervene.

6. Non-Muslim Provisions

Expatriates can choose their home country laws.

For Muslim Residents

• Marriage and divorce are still governed by Sharia law.
• Joint custody is allowed but in the best interest f children.

For Non-Muslim Residents

• No Fault divorce, more flexibility in marriage, and inheritance.
• Access to civil marriage easily.

For Women and Children

• Improved legal protections against domestic abuse and violence.

Better child-centric custody decisions.

1. Are non-Muslims allowed to get married under UAE law?

Yes, they are allowed. They can also get married under UAE Law. Non-Muslims do not need any requirements.

2. Legal age for marriage?

The legal age for marriage is 18 years. Exceptions can be granted.

3. Can women file the divorce?

Yes, women can file for divorce. Non-Muslim woman also have right of No-Fault divorce.

4. How is child custody decided?

The court has to consider the best interests of the child.

5. Pre-marital agreements are recognized or not?

Yes, now pre-marital agreements are full recognized for Muslims and non-Muslims.

7. Legal protections for domestic violence?

Strict legal consequences under UAE Family Protection Law.

8. Can expatriates choose home country laws?

Yes, expatriates can elect their home country’s laws.

Ask The Law, lawyers and legal consultants by No.1 Dubai Law Firm. We have a top team of family lawyers and legal consultants. We provide legal consultation and legal services to Muslim and non-Muslim residents in UAE. Readers can book the legal appointment with our expert family lawyers and legal consultants.