We are pleased to share that Diana Hamade was recently interviewed by Marie Claire Arabia, where she offered legal insight into the UAE’s newly introduced Federal Personal Status Law No. 41 of 2024, which officially came into force on April 15, 2025.
In the interview, Diana broke down the law’s key provisions and their impact on marriage, custody, divorce, and guardianship, particularly in light of the UAE’s evolving commitment to modernising its family law framework while retaining Sharia principles.
Some of the critical updates she discussed include:
- Custody extended to age 18: This change offers stability for children, ensuring they remain in the custodial home through to adulthood unless circumstances dictate otherwise.
- Children’s choice at age 15: Children can now express their preference regarding which parent to reside with, giving weight to their emotional wellbeing.
- Elimination of the ‘adl’ (guardian consent) lawsuit: Previously, women could be prevented from marrying without male guardian approval. This has now been significantly curtailed under the new law.
- Penal provisions for unauthorised travel: A parent who removes a child from the UAE without the other parent’s consent may now face jail time and/or fines, introducing an enforceable deterrent to unilateral action.
Diana emphasized that while the law still operates under Islamic legal principles, it marks a significant shift toward greater autonomy for women and prioritisation of child welfare.
“The new law grants courts more flexibility and better reflects the UAE’s pluralistic society. It represents a sincere effort to reconcile cultural values with evolving social realities,” Diana said.
This media feature is part of Diana’s broader efforts to enhance legal literacy in the UAE and empower families with knowledge of their rights and options.