UAE Legal Amendments Enable Custody for Children of Unknown Parentage Under Specific Criteria
December 13, 2025391 ViewsRead Time: 2 minutes
Font Size
16
The United Arab Emirates has enacted new legal amendments that permit families and women residing in the country to gain custody of children of unknown parentage. This initiative reflects a progressive stance on child protection, emphasizing the principle of "the best interest of the child" in all custody-related decisions.
The government has issued Federal Law Decree No. (12) of 2025, which modifies existing laws concerning children of unknown parentage. These changes aim to broaden family care options for these children, ensuring they receive a stable and nurturing environment that addresses their psychological, social, and educational needs.
Under the new regulations, couples are required to apply for custody together, with both partners needing to be at least 25 years old. They must also meet established residency and care standards. Families will be monitored periodically by a specialized committee to verify compliance with these conditions.
Additionally, the law allows women aged 30 and older, who can demonstrate financial stability, to apply for custody of a child of unknown parentage. The amendments also include measures to protect the child's privacy and facilitate their social integration.
It is important to note that any breach of custody conditions could lead to the child being removed from the family, although there is an option for a corrective plan to rectify any issues, ensuring that the child's welfare remains paramount throughout the process.
The government has issued Federal Law Decree No. (12) of 2025, which modifies existing laws concerning children of unknown parentage. These changes aim to broaden family care options for these children, ensuring they receive a stable and nurturing environment that addresses their psychological, social, and educational needs.
Under the new regulations, couples are required to apply for custody together, with both partners needing to be at least 25 years old. They must also meet established residency and care standards. Families will be monitored periodically by a specialized committee to verify compliance with these conditions.
Additionally, the law allows women aged 30 and older, who can demonstrate financial stability, to apply for custody of a child of unknown parentage. The amendments also include measures to protect the child's privacy and facilitate their social integration.
It is important to note that any breach of custody conditions could lead to the child being removed from the family, although there is an option for a corrective plan to rectify any issues, ensuring that the child's welfare remains paramount throughout the process.
