The UAE Government has issued a new decree-law aimed at enhancing family stability and community cohesion, with a focus on protecting the rights of family members.
The law, which was announced on Wednesday, introduces important provisions concerning personal status, penalties for abuse, and specific rules for marriage and divorce.
The law's primary goal is to fortify family ties and promote social stability while ensuring the protection of vulnerable family members. Below are the key amendments in the new law:
- Penalties for Abuse and Neglect: The law introduces penalties for the mistreatment, abuse, neglect, or abandonment of parents. It also penalizes individuals who refuse to provide financial support to family members when required.
- Protection of Minors: Strict penalties have been imposed for actions involving assault on minors' property, traveling with a minor without permission, squandering inheritance, and embezzling estate funds.
- Regulating Wills and Inheritance: Additional provisions have been added to regulate matters related to wills and inheritance. The law also exempts issues concerning inheritance, wills, and urgent alimony and custody matters from being referred to family reconciliation and guidance centers.
- Family Reconciliation: While certain matters are exempt, the new law grants judges the discretion to refer cases to family reconciliation and guidance centers to expedite procedures when appropriate.
- Legal Age for Marriage: The legal age for marriage has been set at 18 years old, with additional rules established to facilitate the transfer of guardianship for marriage to the court.
- Divorce Provisions: Either spouse can now request a divorce if the other spouse is addicted to drugs, psychoactive substances, or alcohol, providing a legal safeguard in such situations.
- Child Custody: The law emphasizes the best interests of children, allowing minors aged 15 and above the right to choose which parent they wish to live with, providing them with greater agency in decisions affecting their lives.
This new decree-law underscores the UAE's commitment to family welfare, promoting a harmonious society where the rights of all family members, especially children and vulnerable individuals, are protected.
News Source: Khaleej Times
