UAE Domestic Violence Law

UAE Domestic Violence Law – Legal Protection for Victims Explained

Background

Domestic violence protection does exist in the UAE, even though it remains a significant unknown for many residents and expatriates. There is a common misconception that domestic or family violence is either not regulated or not effectively addressed under UAE law. In reality, the UAE has established a dedicated legal framework aimed specifically at protecting victims and preserving family safety.

The current framework is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 on the Protection Against Domestic Violence, which updated and strengthened the previous law issued in 2019. The 2024 legislation reflects a more modern, comprehensive and victim-centred approach, expanding definitions of abuse, reinforcing reporting obligations and introducing clearer protection mechanisms.

This article focuses on the current legal position under the 2024 law, explaining how domestic violence is defined in the UAE today, who is protected, and what legal remedies are available to victims.

What Is the UAE Domestic Violence Law?

The UAE domestic violence framework is governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024, which replaced earlier legislation and introduced a more comprehensive and modern approach to family protection. The stated purpose of the law is to protect the family from domestic violence and its consequences, provide legal protection for victims, prevent harmful behaviour within the family unit, and promote awareness and early intervention.

Rather than focusing solely on punishment, the law adopts a preventive and protective approach, placing the safety and dignity of victims at the centre of the legal process.

What Is Considered Domestic Violence Under UAE Law?

Domestic violence under UAE law is no longer limited to physical harm. The 2024 legislation defines domestic violence as any act or omission by a family member that exceeds lawful authority or responsibility and causes, or is intended to cause, harm.

This harm may be physical, psychological, sexual or economic in nature. The inclusion of psychological and financial abuse reflects an understanding that domestic violence often takes non-physical forms, such as coercion, control, intimidation or deprivation of financial resources, all of which can have serious and lasting consequences for victims.

Who Is Protected by the Law?

The law adopts a broad definition of “family,” ensuring protection extends well beyond spouses alone. Protection applies to spouses, children, parents and grandparents, relatives up to the fourth degree, step-children and children from previous marriages, as well as individuals connected through guardianship, custody or legal responsibility. Foster children covered by applicable UAE legislation are also included.

This wide scope makes the law particularly relevant in extended family households and multigenerational living arrangements, which are common in the UAE.

Reporting Domestic Violence in the UAE

Victims have the legal right to report domestic violence to the police, Public Prosecution or designated social support and family protection centres. In addition, certain professionals, including healthcare providers, educators and social workers, are legally required to report domestic violence if they become aware of it in the course of their professional duties.

The law places strong emphasis on confidentiality. The identity of both the victim and the reporting party is protected and may only be disclosed where legally required. At the same time, the law imposes penalties for failing to report known domestic violence or for submitting false reports, reinforcing the seriousness with which these matters are treated.

Protection Orders and Restraining Measures

One of the most important features of the 2024 domestic violence law is the availability of urgent protection measures. The Public Prosecution or the courts may issue restraining orders to prevent further harm and ensure the immediate safety of the victim.

Such orders may prohibit the offender from contacting the victim in any form, restrict access to the victim’s residence, workplace or other specified locations, and require the offender to vacate the shared home. Courts may also order financial support, medical care, counselling or referral of the victim to shelters or safe accommodation.

Restraining orders are typically issued on an expedited basis and may be extended by court order where the risk of harm continues.

Shelters and Victim Support Services

The law formally recognises shelters and social support centres as key institutions in the protection process. These centres are authorised to receive domestic violence cases, provide safe accommodation, ensure confidentiality, and offer psychological, social and legal support to victims.

In addition to immediate protection, these institutions play a role in rehabilitation and reintegration, reflecting a broader policy shift toward long-term safety and recovery rather than purely punitive responses.

Penalties for Domestic Violence in the UAE

Domestic violence constitutes a criminal offence under UAE law. Offenders may face imprisonment, fines of up to AED 50,000, or both, depending on the severity of the conduct. Where aggravating circumstances exist, such as repeated abuse or violence against children, elderly persons, pregnant women or persons with disabilities, penalties may be increased.

Breaching a restraining order is treated as a serious offence and may result in additional criminal sanctions.

Why the 2024 Law Represents a Major Legal Shift

The introduction of Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 marks a significant step forward in the UAE’s approach to domestic violence. By explicitly recognising psychological and economic abuse, introducing fast-track protection orders, imposing mandatory reporting obligations and strengthening confidentiality safeguards, the law provides victims with meaningful legal protection.

For expatriates and UAE nationals alike, the legislation offers clear legal pathways to safety and support, regardless of nationality, religion or personal status.

Legal Advice on Domestic Violence Matters in the UAE

Domestic violence cases often intersect with family law, divorce, child custody, financial support and, in some cases, immigration status. Early legal advice is essential to ensure that reporting procedures, protection orders and related family matters are handled correctly and without unnecessary risk.

If you or a family member require guidance on domestic violence protection, restraining orders or related family law issues in the UAE, professional legal assistance can play a decisive role.

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Disclaimer

This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Each case depends on its specific facts and legal context.

María Rubert
María Rubert

María Rubert is a Spanish and American lawyer and arbitrator registered in Dubai and DIFC. With master's degrees in commercial law, arbitration, and an Executive MBA, she represents international clients and serves as arbitrator across the Middle East and Africa. Vice President of the Spanish Business Council UAE.

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