UAE Personal Status Law

When navigating UAE Personal Status Law, the framework that controls marriage, divorce, child custody, and inheritance in the United Arab Emirates. Also known as Family Law UAE, it shapes everyday family decisions for residents and citizens alike. The law blends federal legislation with Sharia principles, meaning every major life event has a legal checklist. Understanding these rules helps you avoid costly mistakes, whether you’re signing a marriage contract, filing for divorce, or planning an estate.

Core Topics Covered

The first pillar you’ll encounter is Marriage Law, the set of requirements that couples must meet to register a union in the UAE. A marriage contract must detail dowry, financial responsibilities, and any special conditions, and it must be notarized by a court or a licensed registrar. For expatriates, the law also asks for a valid residency permit and, in many cases, a no‑objection certificate from the home country. These details matter because they determine the rights each spouse enjoys, from inheritance shares to spousal support, and they become the reference point for any future dispute.

When a relationship ends, Divorce Regulations, the procedures that govern the dissolution of a marriage under UAE law come into play. The process can be mutual (full agreement) or contested, and it requires a family court order to be valid. Courts look closely at the marriage contract, the length of the marriage, and the financial situation of both parties. A key outcome of divorce is the allocation of Child Custody, the legal right and responsibility for the care of children after a separation. Custody decisions prioritize the child’s best interests, often favoring the mother for younger kids but allowing flexibility based on employment, health, and living conditions. Alimony and child support are calculated using a formula that considers income, living standards, and the number of dependents, ensuring that children maintain a stable lifestyle.

Even after the family settles, Inheritance Law, the rules that dictate how a deceased person’s assets are divided among heirs in the UAE remains crucial. Inheritance follows Sharia guidelines for Muslims, allocating fixed shares to spouses, children, parents, and sometimes siblings. Non‑Muslim expatriates can opt for a will that respects their home country’s succession rules, but they must register it with the appropriate emirate’s legal department. Family courts supervise the distribution, especially when assets include property across different emirates or international holdings. Knowing the inheritance framework helps you plan ahead, avoid probate delays, and protect your family’s financial future. Understanding these interconnected pieces—marriage contracts, divorce orders, custody arrangements, and inheritance shares—gives you a solid foundation to navigate family matters in the UAE confidently. Below, you’ll find articles that dive deeper into each area, offering practical tips, real‑world examples, and step‑by‑step guides to help you apply the law to your own situation.