Domestic violence and family crimes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), often referred to as family violence or intimate partner violence, encompasses various forms of abuse within relationships, including physical assault (violence involving assault or battery), emotional abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, strongly intimidating and verbal abuse.Ā
This abusive relationship dynamic is characterized by power and control, where the abuser employs manipulation, isolation, and coercive control to dominate their partner.
Victims may find themselves in toxic relationships marked by a cycle of abuse, where tension builds, violence occurs, and a brief period of reconciliation follows, leaving them feeling trapped and experiencing profound victimization.
Addressing domestic abuse requires a robust support system in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that includes advocacy, counseling, and access to shelters and legal support. UAE laws prescribe stringent punishments for perpetrators of domestic violence, crimes offenses, ranging from fines and imprisonment to harsher sentences in cases involving aggravating factors.
Organizations and family justice centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi play a crucial role in helping survivors escape controlling relationships and heal from their experiences, including the psychological impact known as battered woman syndrome.
Understanding the complexities of maltreatment in these contexts is essential for fostering awareness and providing effective resources for those affected by domestic violence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Violence against Women and Children in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Domestic violence and family abuse and crimes are complex issues in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). At the core of domestic violence is the abuser’s desire to exert power and control over women and children.
This can manifest in various forms, including physical violence, emotional manipulation, and psychological intimidation. Abusers often use tactics such as dominance, isolation, and coercion to maintain their control over the victim.
Abusive Family and Domestic Crimes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Cultural norms and societal attitudes can also play a significant role in domestic violence. In some cultures, traditional gender roles may perpetuate the idea that men should dominate women, leading to an environment where abuse is tolerated or overlooked.
Domestic violence often follows a cycle of abuse, which includes phases of tension building, acute violence, and reconciliation. This cycle can trap victims in a relationship, as they may hope for change during the reconciliation phase, only to find themselves back in a cycle of abuse.
Family Violence Laws in United Arab Emirates
The UAE has a comprehensive legal definition of domestic violence enshrined in Federal Law No. 10 of 2021 on Combating Domestic Violence. This law considers domestic violence as any act, threat of an act, omission or undue negligence that takes place within the family context.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made a series of legal changes, a man could ādisciplineā his wife and children without any legal consequences, as long as there were no physical marks.
The Domestic Violence Law defines domestic violence as follows in Article 3. āā¦domestic violence shall mean every action, utterance, abuse, mischief or threat committed by a family member against another family member, surpassing his custody, guardianship, support, power or responsibility and may result in physical, psychological, sexual or economic harm or abuse.ā
In addition to husband and wife, a family includes children, grandchildren, children of either spouse from another marriage, and the parents of either spouse in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
UAE has made progressive steps using Islamic Sharia Law in its approach to domestic violence, especially with the passing of the Family Protection Policy in 2019.
Types of Domestic and Family Violence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The Policy specifically recognizes mental and emotional abuse as major components of domestic violence. It broadens the definition to encompass any psychological harm stemming from aggression or threats by a family member against another in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
This is a key expansion beyond just physical injury. Essentially, the policy breaks down domestic violence into six forms (Islamic Sharia Law used), including:
- Physical Abuse
- Hitting, slapping, shoving, kicking or otherwise physically assaulting
- Inflicting bodily injuries like bruises, fractures or burns
- Verbal Abuse
- Constant insults, name-calling, belittling, and public humiliation
- Yelling, screaming threats and intimidation tactics
- Psychological/Mental Abuse
- Controlling behaviors like monitoring movements, limiting contacts
- Emotional trauma through tactics like gaslighting or the silent treatment
- Sexual Abuse
- Forced sexual activity or sexual acts without consent
- Inflicting physical harm or violence during sex
- Technological Abuse
- Hacking phones, emails or other accounts without permission
- Using tracking apps or devices to monitor a partnerās movements
- Financial Abuse
- Restricting access to funds, withholding money or means of financial independence
- Sabotaging employment, damaging credit scores and economic resources
- Immigration Status Abuse
- Withholding or destroying immigration documents like passports
- Threats of deportation or harms to families back home
- Negligence
- Failure to provide adequate food, shelter, medical care or other needs
- Abandonment of children or dependent family members
Is Domestic and Family Violence a Criminal Offense in UAE?
Yes, domestic violence is a criminal offense under UAE laws. The Federal Law No. 10 of 2021 on Combating Domestic Violence explicitly criminalizes acts of physical, psychological, sexual, financial abuse and deprivation of rights within familial contexts.
Domestic violence under UAE law encompasses physical violence like assault, battery, injuries; psychological violence through insults, intimidation, threats; sexual violence including rape, harassment; deprivation of rights and freedoms; and financial abuse through controlling or misusing money/assets.
These acts constitute domestic violence when perpetrated against family members such as spouses, parents, children, siblings or other relatives and if proved guilty it is a criminal case in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Call us now for an appointment with a lawyer at +971506531334 +971558018669
Punishment & Penalties For Domestic Violence and Family Abuse
Jail Time: Offenders might end up behind bars depending on how serious the abuse is.
Monetary Fines: Financial charges can be placed on those who are convicted of domestic violence, which could be quite burdensome.
Restraining Orders: The court often issues protective orders to stop the abuser from getting close to or contacting the victim (which tends to offer a sense of safety).
Deportation: For particularly severe cases, especially involving expatriates, deportation from the UAE could be enforced.
Community Work: The court sometimes requires offenders to engage in community service as part of their punishment. It’s almost like paying back society in some way.
Rehabilitation and Counseling: Offenders might need to participate in compulsory rehab or counseling sessions, aimed at addressing underlying issues.
Custody Arrangements: When kids are involved, the abusive party might lose custody rights or visitation privileges. This is usually meant to protect the children.
In addition to existing penalties, the new laws have instituted specific punishments for domestic violence and sexual abuse offenders. According to Article 9 (1) of UAEās Federal Law No.10 of 2019 (Protection from Domestic Violence), a domestic violence offender shall be subject to;
| Offense | Punishment |
| Domestic Violence (includes physical, psychological, sexual or economic abuse) | Up to 6 months imprisonment and/or fine of AED 5,000 |
| Violation of Protection Order | 3 to 6 months imprisonment and/or fine of AED 1,000 to AED 10,000 |
| Violation of Protection Order with Violence | Increased penalties ā details to be determined by the court (can be double the initial penalties) |
| Repeat Offense (domestic violence committed within 1 year of previous offense) | Aggravated penalty by the court (details at courtās discretion) |
The court may double the penalty if the breach involves violence. The law allows a prosecutor, either on their own accord or at the request of the victim, to issue a 30-day restraining order.
The order can be extended twice, after which the victim must petition the court for an additional extension. A third extension can last up to six months. The law allows up to seven days for either the victim or the offender to petition against a restraining order after its issuance.
UAE’s commitment to Women’s Safety
Despite the complexities and controversies surrounding its laws, the UAE has taken commendable steps towards reducing domestic violence and sexual abuse cases.Ā
If you are facing domestic violence in the UAE, there are several steps you can take to seek help and protection.
The UAE has established legal frameworks and support systems aimed at addressing domestic violence, including the Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2019, which recognizes domestic violence as a crime and provides mechanisms for victims to report abuse and seek protection.
What Legal Rights Do Victims Of Domestic Violence Have in the UAE?
- Access to protection orders from the public prosecution, which can compel the abuser to:
- Maintain distance from the victim
- Stay away from the victimās residence, workplace, or specified locations
- Not damage the victimās property
- Allow the victim to safely retrieve their belongings
- Domestic violence treated as a criminal offense, with abusers facing:
- Potential imprisonment
- Fines
- Severity of punishment depending on the nature and extent of abuse
- Aimed at holding offenders accountable and acting as a deterrent
- Availability of support resources for victims, including:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Social welfare centers
- Non-profit domestic violence support organizations
- Services offered: emergency shelter, counseling, legal aid, and other support for rebuilding lives
- Legal right for victims to file complaints against their abusers with relevant authorities:
- Police in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Public prosecution offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Initiating legal proceedings and pursuit of justice
- Right to receive medical attention for injuries or health issues resulting from domestic violence, including:
- Access to appropriate medical care
- Right to have evidence of injuries documented by medical professionals for legal proceedings
- Access to legal representation and assistance from:
- Public Prosecution office
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) providing legal aid services
- Ensuring competent legal counsel to protect victimsā rights
- Confidentiality and privacy protection for victimsā cases and personal information
- Preventing further harm or retaliation from the abuser
- Ensuring victims feel secure in seeking help and pursuing legal action
Itās important for victims to be aware of these legal rights and seek assistance from the appropriate authorities and support organizations to ensure their safety and access to justice.
Domestic Violence Resources Available in the UAE
Contact numbers of Reporting Family Violence Authorities
Report Domestic Violence in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Contact the Authorities: Victims can report incidents of domestic violence to local police or relevant authorities. In Dubai, for example, you can reach out to the Dubai Police or the Child and Women Protection Department at 042744666. Other emirates have similar services available.
- Hotlines and Support Services: Utilize helplines for immediate support. The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children offers assistance and can be contacted at 8001111. There are also various hotlines available throughout the UAE that provide confidential support and guidance for victims of domestic violence. Click here for website.
- Ewa’a Shelters for Women and Children in Abu Dhabi
- Services: Operated under the UAE Red Crescent, Ewa’a Shelters provide care and support for female victims of human trafficking and other forms of exploitation, including children. They offer safe accommodation and various rehabilitation programs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE.
- Contact: 800-SAVE in Abu Dhabi
- Legal Protection: Under the Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2019, victims can petition for a protection order against their abuser. This order can prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim and can last for a minimum of 30 days, with the possibility of extension in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Domestic Violence Helpline Numbers in Different Emirates?
Victims of domestic violence in the UAE have access to various resources and support systems designed to provide immediate help and long-term assistance. Here are key resources available:
If you want to report the abuse to the police in the UAE and file a complaint against the perpetrator, contact the police in Dubai and Abu Dhabi:
- Call on 999 if you are in immediate danger
- The nearest police station can be contacted in person
- Dubai Foundation for Women and Children: This government-run organization offers immediate protection and support services for women and children facing domestic violence, including safe housing and rehabilitation programs. They can be contacted at 04 6060300. Click here for website
- Shamsaha: A 24/7 support service for victims of domestic and sexual violence, providing counseling, legal advice, and emergency assistance. Click here for website
- Himaya Foundation: This organization provides care, shelter, and rehabilitation programs for victims of domestic violence. They can be reached at +971 568870766
Professional Legal Services at AK Advocates
When life’s storms bring you to tough decisions, particularly in situations of domestic violence, having a dependable and caring guide can make all the difference. Call us now for an appointment with a lawyer at +971506531334 +971558018669
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Legal Advice and Representation for Domestic and Family Crimes
At AK Advocates in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you have access to a team that is incredibly experienced in legal matters. Our knowledgeable lawyers and advocates go beyond merely providing legal advice; we stand by your side, ensuring you completely understand your rights and various legal protections available to you.
With an unwavering commitment to justice, their court representation aims to be both strong and understanding, centered on achieving the safety and outcomes you need. Our thorough support covers everything from filing police reports and securing restraining orders to assisting with court appearances (and much more).
We handle every aspect of your legal needs when it comes to domestic violence cases in the UAE. Our team includes some of the most highly-regarded criminal lawyers in Dubai, who are here to assist you with any legal issues, particularly those involving domestic violence and sexual abuse within the UAE. Call us now for an appointment with a lawyer at +971506531334 +971558018669.
By simplifying each step along the way, we help remove fear so that you can move forward confidently. Having an expert family and criminal lawyer representing you can make an enormous difference when you’re in court.
We can advocate for the victimās interests, safeguard their confidentiality, and increase the chances of a favorable outcome by leveraging our legal expertise in family violence litigation.
