Family & Personal Status

Divorce, custody, alimony, marriage contracts, wills and inheritance for Muslims and non-Muslims.

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How the process usually works

Confidential consultation on your options

Family guidance / conciliation stage

Filing the case or registering the agreement

Hearings

Judgment, settlement registration or appeal

FAQs

Can non-Muslims divorce under their own laws in the UAE?+

Yes. The federal civil personal status law and Abu Dhabi’s civil family court offer civil procedures for non-Muslims, and in some cases the law of the home country may be applied. A lawyer can advise which route fits your situation.

Key legislation in United Arab Emirates

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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

Lawyers for this area

Hamzeh S. Al-Qaisi

Lead Legal Consultant

Jordan Bar Association · نقابة المحامين الأردنيين · 18646

Dubai، Abu Dhabi، Sharjah، Ajman، Umm Al Quwain، Ras Al Khaimah، Fujairah · English / العربية

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