UAE Vigilant Stance Against Domestic Violence: The Family Protection Policy

In the pursuit of fostering a society that prioritizes the well-being of every individual, the UAE has taken a proactive stance to address and combat the critical issue of domestic violence. 

Recognizing the urgency of this matter, the country has implemented the Family Protection Policy since 2019, aiming to strengthen social bonds within families and communities.

Holistic Protection for Vulnerable Groups:

The Family Protection Policy is designed to safeguard women, children, the elderly, and people of determination from abuse and exploitation by family members. 

It is a robust deterrent against harmful practices within families, encompassing physical, mental, sexual, or material damage, as defined in Article (3) of Federal Law Decree N (10) of 2019.

Under Article 5 of Federal Decree-Law no. 10/2019, specific actions are listed as forms of domestic violence, including physical abuse, psychological/mental abuse, sexual abuse, and material/financial abuse. 

The legislation extends its reach to cover a broad spectrum of relationships involving husbands, wives, children, grandchildren, stepchildren, parents of either spouse, relatives by marriage, and those under alternative family custody.

Empowering Victims: Rights and Reporting Channels:

Victims of domestic violence in the UAE possess crucial rights, including the ability to report incidents to the police, seek protective orders from the court, access medical and counseling services, secure legal representation, and pursue compensation for damages. 

Awareness of these rights is pivotal for individuals facing domestic abuse, encouraging them to seek assistance promptly.

Reporting Mechanisms and Victim Protection:

Encouraging a culture of speaking out against domestic violence, the UAE authorities provide various channels for reporting such incidents. 

The Public Prosecution holds the authority to issue protection orders, safeguarding victims from exposure to the defendant and ensuring a safe distance from designated places. 

Violations of protection orders result in penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

Stringent Penalties for Offenders:

The Domestic Violence Law in the UAE imposes strict penalties on those found guilty of domestic violence. Offenders may face imprisonment ranging from three to six months, fines between Dh1,000 to 10,000, or a combination of both. 

The penalties are doubled in case of repeated violations within a year, emphasizing the commitment to deterring and punishing domestic violence acts.

In conclusion, the UAE’s comprehensive approach to combatting domestic violence underscores its dedication to creating a society that upholds the well-being and safety of all its members.