New UAE Law Enhances Family Stability
The United Arab Emirates government has introduced a new decree-law aimed at protecting family members' rights, strengthening family stability, and supporting community cohesion. The new law includes provisions regulating personal status issues, such as the legal age for marriage, the possibility of divorce in certain cases, and introduces penalties for neglecting or abusing elderly parents.
Key Amendments and Provisions
The new decree-law has introduced several significant changes in the area of family relations and rights, including:
1. Penalties for Abuse and Neglect of Parents
a. Penalties await those who abuse, neglect, or leave their elderly parents without care.
b. The same applies to anyone who refuses to provide necessary financial support to their parents.
2. Protection of Minors and Inheritance
a. Penalties are introduced for damaging a minor's property, unauthorized travel, squandering inheritance, or embezzling funds related to inheritance.
3. Regulation of Wills and Estate Matters
a. Additional provisions have been introduced for the regulation of wills.
b. Matters related to inheritance, wills, as well as urgent or temporary alimony and child custody are exempt from referral to family reconciliation and guidance centers.
4. Possibility of Expedited Procedures
a. The judge has the discretion to refer the case to a family reconciliation and guidance center, thus speeding up the procedure.
5. Modification of Marriage Regulations
a. The legal age for marriage is set at 18 years.
b. The new law allows for the transfer of guardianship to the court if necessary for marriage.
6. Divorce Possibility in Cases of Addiction
a. One spouse can request a divorce if the other is addicted to drugs, psychoactive substances, or alcohol.
7. Children's Rights and Interests
a. From the age of 15, a child can decide with which parent to live, emphasizing the best interest of the child.
Strengthening Social Cohesion and Family Stability
The introduction of the new laws is of paramount importance for the UAE, as the country's leaders believe that the family is the cornerstone of society. The decree aims not only to strengthen family ties but also to provide legal protection to the most vulnerable family members.
The modification of marriage and divorce regulations aids in adapting to modern life situations while respecting individual rights and community values. Special attention is given to protecting children's rights and interests to ensure they have a stable, secure environment.
Why is this law important?
The introduction of the new law sends a clear message from the UAE government: protecting the family and its members is of utmost importance. The prohibition of neglecting or abusing elderly parents and the protection of children's rights, as well as the promotion of peaceful resolution of family conflicts, all contribute to building a strong, cohesive society.
The new decree-law is expected to have a significant impact on community life in the United Arab Emirates and may serve as an example for other countries in protecting families' rights and stability.
