The UAE has introduced stricter penalties for domestic violence and related offenses under a new law published in the government’s Official Gazette.
The Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024, issued on September 10, aims to offer enhanced protection to victims of physical, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse while establishing a comprehensive framework for victim support.
Under the law, those found guilty of domestic violence face imprisonment and/or fines up to Dh50,000. Additionally, individuals who fail to report abuse can be fined between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000, with the same penalties applying to those who file false reports.
Harsher penalties will be imposed if the victim is a parent, elderly (over 60 years), pregnant, a child, disabled, or incapacitated. Repeat offenses within one year will also be considered aggravating factors.
Nikhat Sardar Khan, head of the corporate, DIFC Litigation, and Arbitration Department at Hilal & Associates Advocates & Legal Consultants, explained that previous laws, such as Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2019, lacked sufficient measures to address domestic violence cases. She praised the new law for closing critical gaps and extending stronger protections to vulnerable groups.
The law also introduces protection orders for victims, valid for up to 30 days and extendable twice. Violating a protection order will result in imprisonment and/or fines between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000. If violence or coercion is involved, penalties increase to a minimum of six months in prison and/or fines ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh100,000.
Confidentiality violations concerning domestic violence incidents or revealing the victim’s identity will result in imprisonment and/or a minimum fine of Dh20,000. Forcing or threatening a victim to withdraw their complaint can lead to imprisonment and/or fines ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh50,000.
Samara Iqbal, a divorce and family lawyer, praised the new law’s focus on victim protection, emphasizing that it empowers victims to seek justice. She noted the law’s introduction of both protective and rehabilitative measures as a positive advancement in supporting domestic violence victims.
The law also establishes clear procedures for reporting abuse, mandates that reconciliation requires the victim’s consent, and sets up special judicial circuits for handling domestic violence cases efficiently. Compared to previous legislation, this law introduces tougher penalties, broader definitions of abuse, and a more comprehensive system of victim protection and offender rehabilitation.
In summary, the 2024 law significantly strengthens the UAE’s legal framework for addressing domestic violence, providing clearer definitions, stiffer penalties, and additional support measures for victims.
