Everything You Need to Know About the UAE Legal System
With its swanky lifestyle and world-class business conditions, living in the UAE has long been an attractive prospect. Over recent years, the reforms to the legal system in the UAE have sought to make the nation even more appealing to expats looking for a place to settle. If you’re interested in a move to Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, it’s a good idea to have an understanding of the legal framework in place. In this post, we’re going to give you a summary of the laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, alcohol and foreign ownership of companies.
The UAE legal system explained
The UAE judicial system comprises federal laws that apply to all seven Emirates, laws that apply only to a specific Emirate (regulations only for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.) and laws that are governed by Sharia (Islamic Law). Recent reforms seek to give expats alternatives to Sharia law.
Marriage in the UAE
Couples are now able to marry in non-Sharia civil proceedings. The bride no longer requires the consent of a guardian to wed, a criteria that often made it difficult for expats whose families live abroad. The revisions to the law have resulted in a total of 6,700 marriages to date in 2023. Express same-day weddings are also permitted.
Divorce in the UAE
Previously, couples looking for a divorce had to resolve their disputes in their home country while living in the UAE or choose for their divorce to be governed by Islamic Law. The recent reform to UAE law means that divorce proceedings can now be handled within the country. Either spouse can ask for a divorce without the need of proving harm or justifying reasons for separation.
Inheritance in the UAE
Legacy planning is an important matter for expats living in the UAE. Previously, Islamic Law would automatically apply if the person in question had not petitioned to have a foreign will apply. The changes to the legal system in the UAE now enable expats to draw up wills based on laws in their home countries. If no will exists, half of the estate will go to the surviving spouse and the other half will be distributed equally among children.
Alcohol in the UAE
The answer to the common question of “can you buy alcohol in the UAE?” is “yes” (for non-Muslims) in private or licensed public places. Residents or tourists no longer require a licence to consume alcohol. The drinking age in the UAE is 21, like the USA, and selling alcohol to an under-age person is illegal.
Cohabitation in the UAE
Unmarried couples now have the right to live together in the UAE. The goal of the reform to the UAE legal system in this regard was to make the UAE more welcoming to foreigners.
Foreign business ownership for mainland companies
Finally, there has been a significant change to mainland company formation: Emirati nationals are now no longer required to own at least 51% of the business, enabling foreign residents to own 100% of their company. The government has sought to make it easier to set up businesses for the majority-foreigner population in the UAE.
Are you interested in making a move to the UAE?
If you’re thinking about a new start in the UAE, we’re on hand to help. With everything from relocation services to company formation and visa applications, Europe Emirates Group’s specialist teams will guide you through the process, making everything related to your move smooth and obstacle-free. Contact us today for your free, no-commitment consultation.
Written by
Adrian Oton
CEO, Europe Emirates Group