Domestic Violence Protections
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
The UAE criminalised domestic violence with a dedicated law in 2019, making it a standalone offence for the first time:
- Definition: Domestic violence includes any physical, psychological, sexual, or economic abuse committed by a family member against another family member.
- Family members: The law covers spouses, children, parents, siblings, and anyone living in the same household, including domestic workers.
- Penalties: Offenders face fines of up to AED 10,000 and possible imprisonment. Repeat offences carry harsher penalties.
- Protection orders: Victims can obtain a court order that bars the abuser from the home and prevents them from contacting the victim.
- Reporting: Domestic violence can be reported to the police, the public prosecution, or through specialised family protection centres in each emirate.
When does it apply?
- You are a victim of abuse by a family member or household member in the UAE.
- This applies to all residents, regardless of nationality or gender.
- Domestic workers living in the household are also protected under this law.
What should you do?
- Call the police (999) if you are in immediate danger.
- Contact a family protection centre — Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (800-111), Abu Dhabi's Aman shelter, or the Social Support Centre in Sharjah.
- Document the abuse — take photos of injuries, save threatening messages, and keep a record of incidents with dates and details.
- Request a protection order from the court to keep the abuser away from you and your children.
- If you are an expatriate and your residence visa is tied to your spouse, consult a lawyer — options exist to protect your visa status during proceedings.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not stay silent — domestic violence is a crime in the UAE, and reporting it will not result in legal trouble for the victim.
- Do not destroy evidence — keep all records of abuse, even if you are unsure about filing a complaint.
- Do not leave the UAE with your children without legal advice — this could be considered parental abduction.
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