Family disputes such as divorce, alimony, and child custody have become increasingly common in Dubai due to evolving social and economic dynamics. At Eagle Legal Consultancy, we understand how sensitive and life-changing these matters can be, and we’re here to offer you a clear, legal perspective on your rights and obligations under UAE Personal Status Law.

1. Divorce in Dubai – How Does It Work?

Divorce in Dubai can happen mutually or through a court case if there is a conflict. Both UAE nationals and expatriates can file for divorce, and they may choose to apply UAE law or their home country’s law, depending on their circumstances and the court’s decision.

Divorce Procedure in Dubai:

1. File a request at the Family Guidance Section at Dubai Courts.
2. Attend reconciliation sessions with a family counselor.
3. If reconciliation fails, the case proceeds to court.
4. The judge reviews evidence and issues a ruling.

When Can a Wife File for Divorce?

• In cases of emotional or physical harm.
• If the husband fails to provide financial support.
• If there’s prolonged absence or desertion.
• In cases of addiction or abuse.

2. Alimony in UAE – What Are Your Rights?

Alimony (Nafaqa) refers to the financial support a husband must provide to his wife and children. This includes:

• Wife’s alimony: housing, food, clothing, medical expenses.
• Children’s alimony: education, health care, and daily needs.

The court may order temporary alimony during the divorce proceedings, and this amount may later be adjusted depending on changes in financial status.

3. Child Custody in Dubai – Who Gets Custody?

In the UAE, custody is generally awarded to the mother, while the father remains the legal guardian. The goal is always to prioritize the child’s best interests.

Child Custody Rules in Dubai:

• Mothers usually retain custody until:
  • Age 11 for girls.
  • Age 13 for boys.
• After these ages, the father can request custody if he proves it’s in the child’s best interest.

When Can Custody Be Revoked?

• If the custodian remarries (especially if it’s the mother).
• Neglect or failure to meet the child’s basic needs.
• Any environment that poses harm to the child.

4. Why Choose Eagle Legal Consultancy?

At Eagle Legal Consultancy, our experienced divorce and family law lawyers in Dubai are here to support you through:

• Personalized legal consultations.
• Peaceful dispute resolution and mediation.
• Legal representation in court.
• Enforcement of alimony and custody rulings.

Whether you’re protecting your rights or your children’s future, you deserve expert support tailored to your situation.

What is cyberbullying?

Cyber harassment or online abuse includes a range of actions such as threats, defamation, sharing personal photos or information without consent, blackmail, or cyberbullying. These actions can lead to anxiety, depression, and, in severe cases, suicide or psychological disorders.

Legal Framework in the UAE

1. Federal Law No. 34 of 2021 – Combating Cybercrime and Rumors

• Criminalizes Spreading rumors and gossip (Article 52), punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of not less than 100,000AED.
• Cyber threats (Article 42), punishable by up to two years in prison and fines of 250,000-500,000  Dirhams, up to 10 years if the threat is accompanied by a request.
• Online defamation (Article 43): Imprisonment and fines 250,000-500,000 Dirham (gulfnews.com).
• Violation of privacy: Publishing photos or personal information without permission is punishable by up to6 months and fines of 150,000-500,000dirhams (uaelegislation.gov.ae).
• Posting obscene content or propaganda for pornography (Article 34): Penalties up to imprisonment and fines 250,000-500,000  Dirhams, and stricter for pediatric cases.

General penalties for cybercrime

The law also includes (lawyersuae.com):

How are penalties and reporting methods used?

• Devices and software used to commit the offense will be confiscated (lawyersuae.com, lawyersuae.com).
• Crimes are reported to the public prosecution and the police, who communicate through multiple channels:
• Applications “Hemayati”“My Safe Society “My Safe Society”platform eCrime – Dubai/Abu Dhabior contact999/Al Ameen/8004888/8002626/116111 (gulfnews.com).

What should you do if you are harassed?

According to the advice of lawyers and legal experts in the UAE:

1. Documentation of evidence: Save messages, photos, published content.
2. Familiarize yourself with the laws: Such as arrests and fines to understand your rights.
3. Using the blocking and reporting feature via the platform.
4. Limit the sharing of personal information.
5. Immediate reporting through official channels.
6. Hire a legal advisor if necessary.