As the UAE government expands support for foster parenting, The National turned to Diana Hamade for legal clarity on what fostering means under UAE law – and how it differs from adoption.
In an article published on April 3, 2025, Diana provided crucial insight into the legal framework for foster care, noting that:
- Fostering is revocable and regulated by state authorities, allowing for government oversight in the child’s best interest.
- Adoption, by contrast, is permanent, and not permitted under Sharia law in the UAE.
- Foster families must meet eligibility criteria and are bound by certain limitations, including prohibitions on travel without consent.
“A foster child can be removed from the home in cases where it’s not in their best interest,” Diana explained.
“Adoption, by comparison, creates an irrevocable parent-child relationship. The UAE provides an alternative that protects both the child and public policy.”
Her commentary helped shed light on a complex issue for readers, clarifying common misconceptions and offering an accessible summary of an often misunderstood area of law.
This public education moment is one of many in which Diana has served as a bridge between UAE law and the public understanding of family rights, particularly around issues involving children.
The article can be read here.