United Arab Emirates

Family & Personal Status in United Arab Emirates

Covers marriage, divorce, custody and maintenance for Muslims; non-Muslims may have separate civil personal-status rules. Cases usually pass through family guidance before court.

General information — last reviewed 20 October 2026 — to be reviewed by a licensed lawyer. Not legal advice.

Key legislation

No. 41 of 2024In forceEffective 15 April 2025

Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 on Personal Status (in force 15 April 2025)

Covers marriage, divorce, custody and maintenance for Muslims; non-Muslims may have separate civil personal-status rules. Cases usually pass through family guidance before court.

Last reviewed: 20 October 2026UAE Legislation — Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 on Personal Status

Typical steps

Confidential consultation on your options
Family guidance / conciliation stage
Filing the case or registering the agreement
Hearings
Judgment, settlement registration or appeal

General steps; procedure differs by country.

See packages Back to United Arab Emirates

Family & Personal Status in United Arab Emirates

Key legislation

Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 on Personal Status (in force 15 April 2025)

Typical steps

Official authorities

Sources