Latest amendments to the UAE’s personal and family laws
- Cohabitation of Unmarried Couples
- Divorce and Inheritance
- Honour Killings and Harassment
- Decriminalised Acts
- FAQs
The UAE is continually seeking to improve its infrastructure and legal framework to enhance residents’ and visitors’ quality of life. In 2020, the government announced sweeping changes to personal and family laws in the UAE. From cohabitation to divorce proceedings and decriminalised acts, the evolving UAE personal laws continue to strengthen the country’s appeal as a modern, inclusive destination for expatriates and investors. Here’s everything you need to know about the new UAE laws in 2026.
What are the new changes to personal and family laws in the UAE?
In light of the multicultural population in Dubai and other emirates, the UAE’s government has implemented changes to the personal status law and civil code, reflecting the country’s progressive principles of tolerance and harmony.
Reforms were introduced to modernise the UAE’s family laws. These updates include amendments to the personal status law, civil code and penal code, reflecting the nation’s commitment to tolerance, gender equality and legal transparency.
Since 2020, further clarifications and administrative updates,particularly in Dubai have reinforced how the new family law in the UAE is applied in practical terms, especially in areas such as tenancy, cohabitation and dispute resolution.
The cohabitation of unmarried couples
One of the most significant changes under the new personal and family laws was the decriminalisation of cohabitation for unmarried couples. Before 2020, unmarried couples, including unrelated flatmates of opposite genders, could face legal consequences for sharing accommodation.
Today, cohabitation in Dubai and across the UAE is legal for consenting adults, including expatriates, residents and tourists. Authorities no longer require proof of marriage when renting property and individuals are free to share accommodation without fear of prosecution.
Who does the cohabitation law apply to?
The updated UAE personal laws apply broadly to residents and visitors. However, cultural considerations may still influence behaviour among certain communities.
- Expatriates and Tourists: No legal barriers exist for unmarried couples living together.
- UAE Nationals: While legally permitted, traditional cultural expectations may still play a role socially.
- Family Members: Siblings, cousins and unrelated individuals may also legally share accommodation.
Rental agreements and Ejari updates
As of August 2025, the Dubai Land Department clarified tenancy procedures in line with the new family law in the UAE. Only one tenant is required to appear on the Ejari registration unless cohabitants choose to be listed for clarity. There is no mandatory requirement to register all occupants, simplifying rental processes for cohabitants.
Legal considerations for cohabitants
Although cohabitation is legal, unmarried partners do not automatically receive spousal rights under family laws in the UAE. It is advisable to consider:
- Cohabitation agreements outlining financial responsibilities
- Clear documentation of shared assets
- Defined exit terms in case of separation
Unlike marriage, cohabitation does not grant inheritance rights or financial protections unless formal legal arrangements are made.
Divorce and inheritance for expats
There were also amendments to the family laws in the UAE, related to matters such as divorce and inheritance.
According to the new law, if a couple who married in a foreign country applies for divorce in the UAE, the laws of the country where the marriage took place will be applicable. If both parties cannot agree, the court will intervene and mediate, as per the new personal and family laws in the UAE.
The changes to the personal status law in the UAE also cover inheritance and wills. When an expat passes away in the UAE, the laws of their country of nationality will now apply when dividing their assets among the next of kin.
As per previous inheritance laws in the UAE, a deceased expat’s assets would be distributed as per the Islamic Sharia law. However, the new UAE laws in 2020 allow for more freedom when it comes to personal matters like inheritance.
It’s also important to note that if the deceased expat had a will in place, then the division of assets will be subject to that. However, this excludes property in the UAE, which is still governed by local law.
These amendments to the UAE personal status law will help to attract top foreign talent and encourage them to invest in the country.
Honour killings and assault
The UAE has long been a champion of women’s rights and has led by example when it comes to gender equality. The recent changes under the personal and family Laws in the UAE is another step to ensure that women’s rights in the UAE are protected and upheld.
According to the new regulations in the UAE, ‘honour killings’ will no longer carry a lighter sentence. Instead, the leniency towards honour killings has been abolished and the act will be treated as a crime. Thus, offenders shall now be subject to the relevant articles in the UAE’s Penal Code.
The UAE has also introduced stricter punishment for offenders who harass women, which includes street harassment and stalking.
Other amendments to the law
Along with changes to the personal and family laws, the country has also decriminalised certain acts that do not harm others. For instance, alcohol consumption is no longer a criminal offence, and residents no longer require a license to drink or own alcohol. However, the minimum age for consumption remains 21 years and will continue to be allowed only in private spaces or licensed areas.
Suicide and attempted suicide will also no longer be treated as a criminal act. Those who attempt to commit suicide will not be prosecuted; instead, they will be required to receive the appropriate mental health treatment. However, those who assist others in committing suicide will still face criminal charges.
Additionally, people who have assisted others in need of urgent help, such as CPR or First Aid, but have instead inflicted harm unintentionally, will no longer be held accountable for the outcome.
FAQs
What are the new personal and family laws in the UAE?
The new personal and family Laws were updated under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024, which took effect in April 2025. The reforms modernise divorce, custody, guardianship and family rights, with a stronger focus on the child’s best interests.
Is cohabitation legal for unmarried couples in the UAE?
Yes. Cohabitation for consenting adults has been decriminalised, so unmarried couples can legally live together in the UAE, including Dubai.
How has child custody changed under the new UAE family law?
Custody rules are now more child-centred. Custody can generally continue until 18 for both boys and girls, with courts able to decide differently if it better protects the child’s welfare.
Can children in the UAE choose which parent they live with?
In many cases, a child aged 15 or above can express a preference, but the court makes the final decision based on the child’s best interests.
These changes to the personal and family laws in the UAE, as well as civil and penal code will strengthen the country’s position as a safe and secure environment for all residents, and will promote multiculturalism and tolerance!
For expatriates, tourists and long-term residents, staying informed about UAE personal laws is essential. Whether you are considering cohabitation, drafting a will, or navigating tenancy agreements, understanding the new family law in the UAE ensures clarity and protection.
Want to move to this amazing country? Discover more about life for European expats in the UAE, which offers a high standard of living and world-class facilities. The UAE also attracts many Indian expats; learn more about what life in Dubai for Indians is like.
You can also find out more about the proposed amendment to the UAE Citizenship Law, which could allow certain expats to be eligible for Emirati citizenship.
Follow our Rules and Regulations section to learn more about the country’s laws, such as consumer rights in the UAE.
