The UAE has enacted new laws imposing significant fines for unauthorized travel with minors. These laws aim to protect the welfare of children and uphold family values.
- Violators of the new regulations, effective April 15, 2025, face fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh100,000 and potential imprisonment.
- Unauthorized travel includes scenarios where a child travels with one parent, a relative, or alone without proper documentation.
- Affidavits of parental consent are essential documents to prevent illegal travel and ensure children’s safety.
- Compliance with these regulations is crucial as airlines and immigration authorities enforce the new rules rigorously.
In a significant move, the UAE has introduced stringent penalties for those traveling with minors without proper authorization. Starting April 15, 2025, anyone found in violation of these new family laws may face fines up to Dh100,000 or even imprisonment. The UAE’s commitment to child protection is clearly demonstrated through these severe penalties aimed at ensuring the legal rights and safety of minors.
Unauthorized minor travel is strictly defined under these new regulations. Situations considered unauthorized include a child traveling with only one parent, a non-parent guardian, or alone. The law emphasizes the need for proper documentation, such as an affidavit of parental consent, to verify the legality of a child’s travel and ensure guardian approval.
Affidavits of parental consent are crucial in these circumstances. This legal document provides proof that the parents or guardians have permitted the child’s travel with someone else. It helps prevent illegal travel and is often required by airlines and immigration officials to confirm the child’s journey is authorized.
To acquire an affidavit of parental consent, parents or guardians need to complete a consent form detailing the child, the accompanying party, and travel plans. The document must be signed and notarized to be valid. It’s advisable for parents to also consider arranging additional legal documents, like a power of attorney for child travel, which appoints the travel companion as a temporary guardian during emergencies.
The updated family law also brings changes to travel and custody rights. Both parents now equally share the right to travel with their minor child for up to 60 days annually or more under special circumstances. Additionally, the custody age has been extended to 18, allowing children at 15 to choose their custodial parent, subject to court approval.
These new mandates are strictly enforced by airlines and immigration officials. Travel with minors requires the appropriate documents, which, if not presented, could result in denied boarding or legal repercussions. It is essential for parents and guardians to verify the specific requirements set by different airlines to ensure smooth travel for their children.
Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to severe outcomes, including substantial fines and imprisonment. Beyond legal and financial implications, unauthorized travel may negatively impact a child’s emotional well-being, causing unnecessary distress. Hence, adhering to these laws and ensuring all minor travel is well-documented and authorized ensures children’s safety and legal guardians’ peace of mind.
Adhering to the new UAE travel regulations ensures children’s safety and avoids hefty penalties.
