Domestic Violence Protections in UAE
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
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 to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence in the UAE
- 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 (800-7283), or the Sharjah Social Support Centre (800-700). All three operate 24/7 hotlines in multiple languages.
- 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.
Common Questions
When does it apply — domestic violence protections?
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 I do if I am experiencing domestic violence in the UAE?
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 (800-7283), or the Sharjah Social Support Centre (800-700). All three operate 24/7 hotlines in multiple languages.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...
What should you NOT do — domestic violence protections?
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.