The UAE has introduced new legal guidelines clarifying adoption and child custody rules, specifically addressing the rights and responsibilities of expatriate families and women, aiming to ensure fairness and legal clarity.
UAE Law Updates Guidelines on Adoption and Child Custody for Expat Families and Women
The UAE has officially enacted a new federal decree-law that provides clear regulations for the custody of children with unknown parentage, outlining eligibility requirements, protective measures, and enforcement mechanisms to guide their care and upbringing. The law expands foster care options and sets defined pathways for families living in the UAE—including expatriates—as well as eligible single women, to obtain custody under specific conditions. Central to the legislation is the principle of “the best interests of the child,” which underpins all decisions regarding care, upbringing, and legal responsibility. Federal Decree-Law No. 12 of 2025 strengthens the nation’s child protection framework and demonstrates the UAE’s ongoing commitment to enhancing legal provisions related to child welfare, empowerment, and family stability.
Under the new decree-law, families residing in the UAE can apply for custody provided they meet certain criteria. Applications must be submitted jointly by both spouses, who must each be at least 25 years old. Additional requirements related to residency, family background, and custodial standards will be detailed in the executive regulations, ensuring that children are placed in safe, supportive, and well-supervised care environments.
For eligible women living in the UAE, the law establishes a separate custody pathway. Women seeking custody must be at least 30 years old and demonstrate sufficient financial stability to care for themselves and the child. This ensures that custody decisions are made in a manner that prioritizes the child’s welfare, stability, and long-term development.
The decree-law provides a comprehensive framework defining the responsibilities of custodians. These include obligations to ensure proper education, healthcare, and psychological support, while safeguarding the child’s identity, privacy, and overall well-being. The law also introduces monitoring and enforcement measures, mandating periodic inspections and evaluations by a specialized committee to ensure that custodial arrangements continue to meet required standards. In cases where a custodian fails to comply with legal obligations or the child’s needs are not being met, the committee may remove the child from their care. For minor violations, a corrective plan may be implemented, complete with timelines and conditions to restore compliance.
According to the UAE government, the decree-law emphasizes justice, compassion, and the empowerment of families while reinforcing the state’s dedication to protecting children’s rights. By providing clear legal pathways and safeguards, the legislation aims to create a stable, secure, and nurturing environment that addresses the psychological, educational, social, and health needs of children. It also strengthens equal opportunities for growth and development, reflecting the UAE’s holistic approach to family and child welfare.
Overall, Federal Decree-Law No. 12 of 2025 represents a significant step forward in the UAE’s child protection framework. It ensures that children of unknown parentage have access to safe and supportive families, while clearly outlining the responsibilities and obligations of custodians. By combining careful regulation, monitoring, and enforcement, the law reinforces the UAE’s commitment to creating a society where children can grow, learn, and thrive in secure and nurturing environments.
