UAE Enhances Domestic Violence Law with Stricter Penalties for Offenders

The UAE has enacted stricter legislation aimed at combating domestic violence, enhancing protections for victims and their families. The new law introduces severe penalties for offenders, including the possibility of a six-month jail sentence and fines of up to Dh50,000. Those involved in cases with minors, pregnant women, or individuals with special needs will face even harsher punishments.

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One of the key elements of the updated legislation is the establishment of a new protection order, which can be issued by either prosecutors or courts. This order differs from the previous version in that it can be enforced immediately. Initially valid for 30 days, the order can be renewed as needed. The law requires service providers and others who are aware of domestic violence to report incidents, and failing to do so could result in fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000.

Federal Decree-Law No 13 of 2024 addresses various forms of abuse, including physical, psychological, sexual, and financial harm. It includes stronger measures to prohibit the accused from approaching victims, mandates the removal of the accused from shared residences, and protects victims' property from damage.

Legal experts have welcomed these changes, emphasizing the importance of both legal and emotional support in addressing domestic violence. Shabana Saleem, a senior associate at Al Tamimi and Co law firm, highlighted the law's role in empowering families and requiring various professionals—such as family members, healthcare providers, and social workers—to report incidents of domestic violence. She noted that the new legislation represents a significant advancement in providing a comprehensive approach to tackle abuse and support survivors.

The law also establishes provisions for the long-term recovery of victims, including the creation of shelters that provide safe housing and access to health and psychological services. These shelters must accommodate victims within 24 hours of their request. The law mandates that victims be accompanied by a specialist psychological therapist during investigations prior to prosecution, a measure that many advocates have long sought.

Madeleine Mendy, a family lawyer in Dubai, expressed optimism about the new legislation, stating that it offers a vital lifeline to vulnerable women in the UAE. She recounted her experience assisting a woman in Abu Dhabi who had suffered severe abuse from her husband, emphasizing the significance of the new harsher penalties and the immediate removal of offenders from shared homes.

The law further ensures that any reconciliation efforts between parties can only proceed with the victim's full agreement and the approval of prosecutors, prioritizing the safety of the victim above all else.

Globally, the issue of domestic violence remains a pressing concern, with the World Health Organization reporting that an estimated 736 million women—nearly one in three—have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetimes. This new legislation in the UAE reflects a commitment to tackling domestic violence head-on and fostering a safer environment for all families.

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