Domestic violence is the violation of human rights. It is a serious crime worldwide. In many cases, women and young children become victims of domestic abuse. Any kind of harassment, mental torture or assault is known as domestic abuse. Sometimes, individuals face financial abuse and neglect at home; these are also types of domestic abuse around the world. The UAE government believes in a healthy family lifestyle. Therefore, penalties are imposed on individuals for threatening the public interest in terms of abuse and violence.
Laws to Address Domestic Abuse in the UAE
The UAE has focused on federal laws to maintain the public interest, including family laws and penalties for domestic abuse. Legal action against domestic violence is taken under Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2020 on Protection from Domestic Violence. This law guides individuals on penalties, the rights of victims, and efficient complaint mechanisms in the UAE. Additionally, the law extensively describes types of domestic violence, including psychological distress and physical harm. Quick actions can be taken against crime offenders who may have restraining orders or be taken to rehabilitation centres.
Legal Scope of Law Against Domestic Abuse
The legal protection for domestic abuse is not limited to assault only. If a person is going through psychological abuse, any kind of harassment, they can file the domestic abuse case. Physical injuries are not required to report domestic abuse. If the spouse is not getting financial support to maintain themselves or the house, they are under financial abuse, which is illegal in the UAE.
Punishments for Domestic Violence
Punishments for domestic violence are decided on the severity of the harm. If weapons are used, there would be a harsh penalty, including a fine and imprisonment. As for the threats, maybe the financial penalty would be enough. However, the UAE criminal courts will decide the punishment based on the impact it has had on the victim throughout the domestic abuse.
Repeated Offences in the UAE
If the offender repeats domestic abuse in the UAE, they will go through an extensive background check and assessments. Their family history will be evaluated to make risk assessments.
Legal Procedures in 2025
In recent years, Dubai police have proactively worked on cases of domestic violence. They have made family protection units, whereas the authorities of social services offer counselling, shelters and legal help to the victims. Moreover, the complaint mechanism has become efficient. Victims can make complaints online through verified apps and websites. These complaints are then sent to the Public Prosecution. After this, an investigation and criminal charges are imposed. The process is systematic and fast for court trials.
Proofs and Documents for Domestic Violence
The victim can provide documents and proof of domestic violence to the police authorities. They can submit a complaint online with evidence. It could include: medical reports, photographs, messages or even a testimony from the witness.
Court Orders for Protection
The UAE believes in strict court orders for the crime offenders of domestic violence. The judges can restrict the contract or shift the individual from their home to a rehabilitation centre. It would protect the victims from criminals. However, these are temporary orders, but it depends on how risky the case is.
Separate Residence for Offenders
The UAE legal system ensures protection for the victims in cases of domestic violence. Therefore, they will order the offender to live separately from the victim. The relocation protects them from further physical injuries or mental stress.
Solutions and Support to Victims in Dubai
The victims of domestic abuse get legal support through the social services department and government programs. They are also provided with emergency accommodation and immediate counselling services. Additionally, the victims can ask for compensation, especially for the medical treatment and financial loss they have suffered from.
Social Services in the UAE
Social services are provided by the government department. Through this department, the victims can seek legal help and also plan for safety measures to be taken in the future. However, these victims are also guided about choosing counselling services.
UAE Legal Procedures Family and Child Protection
The UAE government emphasises good family life. In cases of domestic violence, children are taken to the family courts. The decision of custody and visitation rights are made in the court. However, the judges prioritise the safety of the child and may restrict the parental right if violence is evident in the case. Child rights are protected under the Wadeema Law in the UAE.
Decision for Child Custody
When it comes to child custody, a judge would evaluate the safety mechanism provided to the child. The decision is based on the child’s best interests. Hence, the parental right is also given to the right parent.
Expats and Domestic Violence
Living in the UAE is a dream for many expats. The legal system is flexible for Muslims and non-Muslims. There are some laws that are followed regardless of nationality or religion. Such is the law for domestic violence. If an expat is found guilty of domestic violence, they will be fined, imprisoned and later deported to their home country. Additionally, they may have a travel ban and never get back to the UAE.
Report Mechanism in the UAE
It is important to understand that the UAE government will has made strict rules and regulations for the crime offenders. Domestic abuse is a worldwide crime. No religion or caste would come into the matter. However, strict penalties include: heavy financial fines, imprisonment and deportation if an expat is involved. An interesting thing is that the UAE has digitalised its complaint mechanism. Victims can report cases online with evidence. They can seek legal support whenever they want to.