The United Arab Emirates has introduced a series of national initiatives designed to enhance the protection of children involved in family disputes and to improve child custody arrangements, with an emphasis on their psychological wellbeing and family stability.
The announcements were made during a conference organised by the Ministry of Justice’s Judicial Training Institute in collaboration with the General Women’s Union. The event, held under the patronage of Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, known as the Mother of the Nation, focused on the theme “Protecting and Caring for Children in Custody: A Shared Family and Institutional Responsibility.” It brought together judges, legal professionals, psychologists, and government officials to discuss measures to safeguard children following parental separation.
One key initiative introduced at the conference was the Post-Separation Family Charter. This framework aims to guide parents in managing family relationships after separation or divorce, encouraging cooperation between parents and ensuring the needs of children remain central to custody decisions.
Speakers at the event underscored the necessity of psychological support for children impacted by family disputes. Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women’s Union, emphasized that child protection extends beyond legal rights, noting the importance of emotional support, family stability, and a secure environment for child development.
Al Suwaidi pointed to the Child Custody Visitation Centre established at the General Women’s Union headquarters, developed in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. The centre offers a safe space for children to maintain contact with their parents while receiving psychological and social assistance. Its goal is to mitigate the adverse effects of family conflicts on children and to bolster their sense of security during periods of transition.
Abdullah Sultan Bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and Chairman of the Federal Judicial Council, highlighted ongoing legislative and judicial advancements in the UAE aimed at upholding children’s rights in family disputes. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of children remains a priority within the family law system.
These initiatives reflect a broader effort by the UAE to advance child protection in family law, integrating psychological care and legal measures to provide comprehensive support for children navigating parental separation.