Family Law & Wills in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has become the region's most progressive forum for family matters. Its Civil Family Court applies a civil, non-Sharia framework to non-Muslims, covering marriage, divorce, custody and inheritance in English and Arabic. This sits alongside the Personal Status regime for those to whom it applies. Which framework governs your marriage, divorce or estate has a large effect on outcomes.
For divorce and custody, we advise on jurisdiction, financial settlement and arrangements for children under the applicable regime. For succession, we help non-Muslims put in place wills that direct how their UAE assets pass, avoiding default rules that may not reflect their wishes, and we register them appropriately. We act sensitively and focus on practical, enforceable outcomes.
What we do
- Divorce under the Civil Family Court and Personal Status law
- Child custody and guardianship
- Financial and property settlements
- Wills for non-Muslims
- Succession and inheritance planning
- Recognition of foreign marriages and divorces
Frequently asked
As a non-Muslim, which law governs my divorce in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi's Civil Family Court applies a civil, non-Sharia law to non-Muslims, covering divorce, custody and finances. We confirm whether it applies to you and advise on the process.
Do I need a UAE will?
If you own assets in the UAE, a registered will lets you direct how they pass and appoint guardians, rather than leaving it to default rules. For non-Muslims this is especially important. We draft and register it.
Will a foreign marriage or divorce be recognised?
Often yes, but recognition depends on the documents and the framework that applies. We advise on recognition and on any steps needed for it to take effect in the UAE.
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