As an expatriate family in the United Arab Emirates, ensuring your child’s well-being is a top priority. Fortunately, the country has a robust legal framework that advocates for protecting children from harm and upholding their rights. It enforces strict regulations to safeguard their safety, promote their welfare, and provide clear channels for support.
At Remitly, we believe every family deserves to feel safe and supported when moving to a new country. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand child protection laws in the UAE, ensuring you have all the information you need to protect your family’s well-being.
Child protection legislation in the UAE
The UAE’s approach to child rights highlights its dedication to fostering a society where children are empowered to succeed. Its comprehensive laws and policies ensure kids are not only safe but can also access the tools they need to flourish.
These laws are designed to prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation while promoting access to education, healthcare, and a safe living environment. Together, they create a strong legal framework that protects children’s rights and guarantees their safety, well-being, and development.
Importance of child rights and advocacy
Advocacy is essential to the process, as it plays a vital role in promoting and enforcing these laws. Government initiatives work hand in hand with non-profit organisations to strengthen support for families and children, ensuring overall community development.
In addition, clear reporting channels help ensure that concerns are promptly addressed, making child welfare a collective priority.
National legal framework
The UAE’s commitment to child rights has been shaped by a combination of global standards, national priorities, and a growing awareness of young people’s well-being. Several key factors, such as national tragedies and international human rights agreements, have contributed to the development of its robust child protection legal system.
Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 (Wadeema’s Law)
One of the defining moments for Emirati child protection policies was the devastating case of Wadeema in 2013. Wadeema was an eight-year-old girl who suffered extensive neglect and abuse at the hands of her custodians.
The national outcry that followed this tragic case led to the creation of Wadeema’s Law in 2016. This legislation brought about much-needed reforms to the country’s child protection laws; specifically, it compelled the UAE government to outline harsher penalties for those responsible for child abuse.
Wadeema’s Law has significantly impacted the country’s child rights landscape. It hasn’t just provided better protection for children but has also reinforced the importance of community responsibility in the process. By establishing more stringent penalties for offenders and enhancing reporting mechanisms, Wadeema’s Law makes it clear that the maltreatment of children will not be tolerated in the UAE.
Ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child
The UAE ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1997. Since then, it’s fully embraced the principles of this international treaty, which outlines children’s fundamental rights to protection, education, and healthcare.
By incorporating these global standards into its legal system, the UAE’s commitment to promoting child welfare shines on the global stage.
National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood 2017-2021
The Supreme Council for Motherhood & Childhood rolled out the National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood in 2017.
This five-year policy, in conjunction with the Strategic Plan for the Promotion of the Rights of Children with Disabilities 2017-2021, received broad approval from the Cabinet and the general public. Both provide a coordinated framework for childhood services across the UAE. They also consolidate national efforts aimed at promoting access to education, healthcare, and social services for all children, but particularly those with disabilities or other vulnerabilities.
Child protection regulations
Beyond these national laws and frameworks, the UAE has put several other sector-specific policies in place to safeguard children.
Child labour laws in the UAE
Emirati child labour laws are carefully crafted to protect young people from exploitation and ensure their well-being. They are based on Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, which states:
- Children under the age of 15 are not permitted to work so they can fully engage in their education.
- Those between 15 and 18 can only be employed in non-hazardous environments that do not interfere with their schooling or health.
These measures help ensure that young workers don’t compromise their education or become subjected to harmful working conditions.
To reinforce these protections, the UAE also ratifies several International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions. For instance, ILO Convention No. 138 regulates the minimum worker age, while Convention No. 182 prohibits the worst child labour offences. By adopting these treaties, UAE law demonstrates its commitment to the highest international standards.
Child protection at school
The National Child Protection Policy in Educational Institutions in United Arab Emirates was established in 2022. It places the responsibility for ensuring child welfare on every community member. But more importantly, it proves the UAE Ministry of Education’s (MoE) commitment to promoting the safety, welfare, and respect of every child at school—no matter their gender, ethnicity, religion, or social standing.
This policy goes a long way in making schools a safe, nurturing environment. It prohibits abuse, neglect, and bullying while providing clear reporting mechanisms for such incidents. It also protects children’s confidential information and ensures their best interest if any cases arise.
Provisions of this policy apply to several key groups, including:
- Students in private and public schools.
- Staff, suppliers, and service providers in both private and public government institutions.
- Child protection experts and specialists in MoE Child Protection Units.
Learn more about the UAE’s anti-bullying policies in our comprehensive guide.
Federal Law No. 9 of 1976
Also known as the Juvenile Delinquents and Vagrants Act, this law provides a basis for the juvenile justice system in the UAE. It requires child and adult offenders to be treated differently under the law. Besides ensuring children’s cases are handled in a way that protects their dignity, this federal decree promotes rehabilitation rather than punishment of young offenders.
From Abu Dhabi to Dubai and all seven emirates, juvenile courts operate separately from those handling adult cases. They also prioritise confidentiality and protect minors’ identities by holding closed sessions.
Other key laws and regulations
Besides these provisions, UAE law provides other tailored regulations to deal with different aspects of child welfare and family life:
- Federal Law No. 10 of 2019 regulates cases of family violence.
- Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 offers protection against cybercrimes and targeted rumours online.
- Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 applies to non-Muslim UAE citizens and regulates several important aspects of personal life, from marriage to divorce, custody, parentage, inheritance, and more.
Enforcement and reporting mechanisms
UAE child protection laws are reinforced through strict enforcement. Local authorities are empowered to take immediate action when a child’s safety is at risk.
Meanwhile, convenient reporting mechanisms are in place to help concerned community members raise concerns with the proper authorities. This enables swift intervention when children are at risk, providing timely action against potential harm.
Channels for reporting child abuse
If you suspect maltreatment, report issues related to child welfare through the following channels:
- Child Protection Hotline: Call the Ministry of Interior (MoI) hotline on 116111.
- Online avenues: You can also reach MoI on their dedicated Child Protection Centre website on via the Hemayati mobile app.
- Child Helpline: Dial 800-800 toll-free and connect to the Department of Social Services.
- Specialised Child Protection Units: Access trained professionals who are ready to intervene when needed, ensuring timely responses to protect vulnerable children.
- Emergency services: Call 999 to receive a fast emergency response.
Find more information on community centres, charities, and shelters around the UAE on the official website.
Committees overseeing child welfare
Various government agencies handle the enforcement of the UAE’s child protection laws, including:
- Ministry of Community Empowerment (MoCE): Oversees official child welfare policies and programs at the community level.
- Law enforcement agencies: Work closely with MoCE to investigate reports, act swiftly in emergencies, and prosecute serious cases of abuse.
- Child Protection Centres: Serve as dedicated resources for reporting, investigating, and supporting victims of abuse.
Through these combined efforts, authorities continue to strengthen child protection measures and awareness nationwide.
Role of Islamic Sharia Law in child protection
As a predominantly Islamic country, Sharia Law plays a vital role in the protection and well-being of children. Specifically, it highlights their right to care, education, and security. Sharia Law also upholds parental responsibilities, requiring children to be nurtured in safe and supportive environments. Neglect, abuse, and exploitation are strictly condemned, and provisions exist to hold guardians accountable for any harm inflicted upon a child.
The UAE incorporates principles of Sharia Law into its national legislation, upholding that child protection laws reflect both religious and legal obligations. Federal laws, such as Wedeema’s Law, align with Islamic values by enforcing strict measures against child abuse while also prioritising family unity and rehabilitation where possible. Courts may consider Shariah principles in family-related cases, reinforcing the importance of ethical guardianship and child welfare.
By blending Islamic values with modern legal frameworks, the Emirates creates a comprehensive system that maintains children’s rights while honouring cultural and religious traditions.
Promoting child rights advocacy and welfare
While the UAE has made significant strides in its child protection and welfare laws, there’s a need for ongoing advocacy and community involvement. Every individual—whether a parent, educator, or concerned citizen—has a role to play in ensuring children grow up safe and nurtured. By staying informed and proactive, we can contribute to a culture that prioritises child welfare and well-being.
Advocating for children’s rights means more than just supporting legislation; it involves active engagement in awareness campaigns, reporting concerns, and fostering environments where children feel safe and heard. Parents and teachers can reinforce these efforts by teaching children about their rights and where to seek help when needed.
Educational campaigns further equip communities to recognise and act on signs of abuse. These public awareness campaigns educate both parents and children about their rights and where to find help.
Towards a safe, collective future
This integrated approach encourages people to speak up and know their concerns are taken seriously. Through collective effort, we can build a future where every child in the UAE flourishes, stays safe from harm, and is empowered to reach their full potential.
FAQs
What are the laws that protect children in the UAE?
The UAE enforces comprehensive child protection laws, including Wadeema’s Law (Federal Law No. 3 of 2016), which protects children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Additional legal frameworks ensure access to education, healthcare, and safe living conditions, with strong enforcement mechanisms in place to uphold these rights.
What are the child labour laws in the UAE?
Strict child labour laws in the UAE prohibit employment for those under 15, with additional protections for workers aged 15 to 18. Regulations ensure safe conditions, limited working hours, and restricted job types to prevent exploitation and harm.
What is the safeguarding law in the UAE?
The safeguarding law is officially known as the National Child Protection Policy in Educational Institutions in United Arab Emirates. Launched in 2022, it makes child welfare a collective responsibility and promotes the safety, welfare, and respect of every child at school—no matter their gender, ethnicity, religion, or social standing.
What is Wadeema’s law in the UAE?
Named after a tragic case from 2013, Wadeema’s Law strengthens child protection in the UAE by criminalising abuse and neglect, enforcing strict penalties, and promoting children’s safety and rights.