United Arab Emirates Divorce Guide: Laws, Process & Costs
Everything you need to know about divorce in United Arab Emirates.10 in-depth guides covering your rights, costs, and options.
Legal System
Civil law with Sharia influence; recent reforms
Divorce Type
Mutual consent, no-fault, or fault-based (depends on applicable law)
Waiting Period
Varies; mediation required first
Average Cost
AED 5,000–200,000+
Property System
Sharia: separate property default; 2022 civil law option: judge decides fair division
Residency
Residence in UAE
Divorce Law in United Arab Emirates: Overview
The UAE underwent revolutionary family law reform in 2022, creating a parallel civil personal status law for non-Muslims. Previously, all residents — regardless of religion — were subject to UAE-interpreted Sharia law for family matters. Now, non-Muslims can opt for the civil law, which provides more familiar rules for Western expatriates: no-fault divorce, equitable property division, and best-interest custody standards. The Abu Dhabi and Dubai court systems operate independently. The DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) Courts offer English-language, common-law-based family proceedings — popular among expatriates.
Key Legislation
Federal Law No. 41 of 2022 (Civil Personal Status Law)
New civil family law option for non-Muslims: no-fault divorce, equitable division.
Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 (Personal Status Law)
Sharia-based personal status law — still applies to Muslims and non-Muslims who don't opt out.
DIFC Law No. 4 of 2021
DIFC Courts Family Law — English-language common law proceedings.
Grounds for Divorce
- ●Civil law (non-Muslim): either spouse can file, no grounds needed, mutual consent or unilateral
- ●Sharia law: husband (talaq), wife (khula by returning mahr), or judicial divorce (for harm, non-maintenance, desertion, etc.)
How to Divorce in United Arab Emirates: Step-by-Step
Choose applicable law
Non-Muslims can opt for new civil law. Muslims follow Sharia-based law.
Mandatory mediation
Family Guidance Committee attempts reconciliation first.
File petition
At the local Personal Status Court (Abu Dhabi or Dubai) or DIFC Courts.
Civil law divorce
No-fault, either spouse. Judge determines fair property and custody terms.
Sharia divorce
Varies by type (talaq, khula, judicial). Different procedures and rights.
Recent Legal Reforms
Landmark: new civil personal status law for non-Muslims — no-fault divorce, equitable division.
DIFC Courts launched family law jurisdiction — English-language proceedings.
Criminal penalties for extramarital relationships relaxed.
What Makes United Arab Emirates Divorce Unique
- →Dual legal system: Sharia law for Muslims, new civil option for non-Muslims (since 2022)
- →DIFC Courts: English-language, common-law-based family proceedings in Dubai
- →Abu Dhabi and Dubai have separate court systems
- →Massive expat population (~85% of residents) makes jurisdiction choice critical
- →Recent reforms are among the most dramatic family law changes in the Middle East
United Arab Emirates Divorce Statistics
~85% of UAE residents
Expat population
~25-30% (rising)
Divorce rate
Growing rapidly since 2021 launch
DIFC family cases
United Arab Emirates Divorce Guides
United Arab Emirates Property Division
How assets and debts are divided
United Arab Emirates Spousal Support
Maintenance and alimony
United Arab Emirates Child Custody
Custody and parenting arrangements
United Arab Emirates Divorce Process & Timeline
Steps and how long it takes
United Arab Emirates Divorce Costs
Fees, costs, and legal aid
United Arab Emirates Child Support
Financial support for children
United Arab Emirates Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses agree
United Arab Emirates Divorce Mediation
Alternative dispute resolution
United Arab Emirates Divorce & Taxes
Tax implications of divorce
United Arab Emirates Domestic Violence & Divorce
Safety and legal protections
Every situation is different
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Legal Disclaimer: This article covers United Arab Emirates divorce law for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified family law attorney or solicitor in United Arab Emirates for advice specific to your situation.