Latest news with #ExpatriateLaw
Khaleej Times
04-08-2025
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Venting online about your ex? Experts warn of up to Dh500,000 defamation fine
As more people turn to social media to share personal details about their breakups or divorces, legal experts are warning that such posts could cross into criminal territory, while also discouraging the younger generation from commitment and marriage. Byron James, a partner at Expatriate Law and an international family law expert, explained that under UAE law, particularly Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumours and Cybercrimes, both defamation and privacy violations are criminal offences, with strict penalties attached to online conduct. 'The UAE's legal approach reflects a broader commitment to protecting individual dignity, reputation and family privacy,' he said. 'These are matters of public order.' Defamation in the UAE includes any statement, written or implied, that harms someone's honour, reputation or social standing. Unlike in some jurisdictions, truth is not a defence; even accurate information can be considered defamatory if shared without justification and causes reputational damage. What makes this more severe is the method of publication. 'The offence is aggravated if defamatory content is posted online,' Byron said. 'Social media, WhatsApp, email or even blogs, all of these fall under electronic means. Once something is shared, it becomes a cybercrime. Penalties can go up to Dh500,000, jail time, and in some cases, deportation for non-citizens.' Privacy violations are also addressed under the same law. Sharing personal data, images, voice notes, private messages, or screenshots without consent may result in criminal charges. Even if the other party isn't directly named, if their identity can be inferred from context or known associations, a violation may have occurred. Byron adds: 'There's no need for malicious intent. Simply posting harmful or private information during or after a divorce could be enough to trigger liability, especially if it affects public perception or ongoing legal proceedings.' The emotional cost Shamsa (name changed), a 33-year-old Dubai resident, says she used to admire couples who shared their relationships online, until she saw how many ended up airing their separation just as publicly. 'Seeing a full relationship unfold online is nice, until it gets ugly,' she said. 'Even when people say they don't want to share the details, their followers pressure them. They say, 'We were part of your journey, we deserve to know what happened.' That kind of demand is unhealthy.' Shamsa believed that these public breakups have quietly shifted how people view marriage. 'It's changing the image of commitment. When people who once seemed so in love turn on each other online, it makes the idea of long-term relationships feel less stable.' Why do people post? Psychologist Rehab Al Hammadi, a UAE-based mental health professional, said that emotional regulation often breaks down during periods of grief or loss. 'People may feel the urge to defend themselves, tell their side, or seek validation. But social media isn't a safe outlet, especially when legal lines are involved.' She explained that the short-term relief of sharing often gives way to long-term consequences. 'Public judgment, potential legal action, or impact on custody battles can make things worse. Venting publicly doesn't resolve pain; it often adds new layers to it.' Even vague posts may count Indirect references or vague posts, sometimes called 'subtweeting' or 'soft launching' grievances, may still meet the legal threshold. 'If mutual followers can reasonably identify the person being referenced, and reputational harm occurs, that's enough,' Byron explained. 'Courts don't only look at content, they assess the overall context and impact.' He gives an example: a post like 'Some people pretend to be the victim while lying in court' may appear general, but if shared during a public or known divorce dispute, it can be interpreted as targeting a specific person. 'The legal system gives weight to emotional and moral harm as well, not just reputation.'
Khaleej Times
29-07-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dh1 billion divorce settlement? Longtime UAE resident files for historic amount
A longtime UAE resident has filed for a Dh1 billion divorce settlement at the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court. If the Caribbean woman's claim is successful, it would represent the largest divorce award ever granted in the UAE and likely the wider Gulf region, according to Byron James, partner at Expatriate Law, who represents the woman. The case involves a Muslim couple of Caribbean origin, who have been long-term residents of the UAE and are members of an ultra-high net worth family. 'While the details of the claim are private, the size of the award being sought reflects the scale of the family's wealth,' said Byron. He added that the principle at the heart of this case was that what is built together should be shared fairly. 'The court has the ability to recognise both financial and non-financial contributions to a marriage and deliver outcomes that reflect the lived reality of modern partnerships,' he said. 'That is what makes this court so effective. It does not just apply rules. It understands people.' The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court a secular forum that welcomes both Muslims and non-Muslims and treats all parties with equal regard. In May this year, the court finalised a no-fault divorce between a foreign couple, resulting in a record-breaking financial settlement exceeding Dh100 million — the largest reported divorce settlement of its kind in the Gulf region. Rising confidence in system Byron added that these cases show the 'sophistication and strength of the legal system' in managing complex cases. 'This is not just about wealth. It is about fairness, transparency, and a growing confidence in the UAE's ability to resolve even the most sensitive personal matters with professionalism and dignity,' he said. 'The UAE is no longer simply a financial centre; It is a place where people build their lives. That includes relationships, families, properties, and futures. As high net worth individuals put down deeper roots here, they are naturally turning to the courts when relationships break down.' He said that such couples are finding in the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court a legal system that mirrors their own expectations of excellence. 'The process is digital, it is bilingual, and hearings are conducted remotely,' he said. 'A divorce can be granted in as little as thirty days, making it one of the fastest legal divorce systems in the world. And yet, this efficiency never comes at the cost of quality.' He cited the example of a client who finalised his divorce while seated in a flight. 'The system is built around the realities of modern life,' he said. 'It respects time, process and above all people. This is why high net worth clients are increasingly choosing to resolve their family matters here.' Minimal emotional strain He said that the Abu Dhabi court not just values speed but also ensures minimal emotional strain to all parties involved, with financial settlements and parenting arrangements dealt with quickly after the divorce is finalised. 'One of the most progressive elements of the system is its approach to children,' he said. 'The court automatically makes a joint custody order at the time of divorce, because both parents are seen as equally important. This marks a powerful shift away from the outdated idea that one parent should take full control based on gender. That is no longer the case. The court prioritises shared parenting and the child's best interests above all.' He added that at its heart, the court is 'rooted in the principles of justice, family, and dignity' and that it 'upholds the core values of the UAE' while delivering outcomes that meet the standards of the most sophisticated global legal systems.
The National
28-07-2025
- Business
- The National
UAE resident files for Dh1 billion divorce settlement in Abu Dhabi
A woman has filed for a landmark divorce settlement of Dh1 billion at Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court. The motion was filed by a 39-year-old from the Caribbean, who was married for 20 years before she and her husband began divorce proceedings in April, citing irreconcilable differences. 'I have a deep and unwavering belief in the UAE's judicial system,' said AM, the woman who filed the claim and has five children. 'We've lived in the UAE for almost 18 years and built our empire here. My children were born and raised in this country – it's our home, and I have so much respect for it and for the process currently under way in court.' The Dh1 billion claim does not include child support, which is being addressed separately. Earlier this year, an American woman in the UAE was awarded more than Dh100 million ($27.2 million) in a divorce settlement by Abu Dhabi's Civil Family Court. The payout is believed to currently be the largest to an expatriate woman in a no-fault divorce case by the court, which was established in December 2021. Byron James, partner at Expatriate Law, who is AM's lawyer, said the significance of the case is not in the potential payout, but what it represents. 'Abu Dhabi is emerging as not just as an alternative, but as a preferred destination for resolving high-value international divorces,' said Mr James. 'The UAE's family court system is now being seen as efficient, sophisticated, technology focused but deeply human, all qualities that are becoming increasingly important to clients at the very top end of the global spectrum.' The court was opened to hear all cases under a non-Sharia process, including Muslims who are not UAE citizens, to bring the capital into line with international legal practices. As a result of a decision made last year, non-Emirati lawyers are allowed to represent clients in Abu Dhabi's civil court. Previously, only Emirati lawyers could operate in the country's courtrooms. Since its inception, the court has processed more than 43,000 civil marriage applications – including over 10,000 in the first half of 2025 alone. Nearly 20 per cent of applicants are tourists, reflecting Abu Dhabi's increasing profile as a centre for legal marriage and family law services. Youssef Saeed Al Abri, undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, said the case reflects growing global trust in the UAE's civil justice framework. 'This unprecedented claim is a clear testament to the global confidence in Abu Dhabi's civil justice system. The Civil Family Court has redefined how family disputes are resolved in the region – through fairness, speed, modern court procedures and full accessibility for expats of all nationalities and religions.'
Khaleej Times
27-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Divorces in UAE: Rising costs, daily pressures cannot be the reasons, says Dubai billionaire
Rising costs, lack of appreciation, and the pressures of daily life may be reasons for divorce; still, they are not sufficient justifications, said Emirati Dubai billionaire Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, the Founder and Chairman of Al Habtoor Group. Family lawyers have observed increased divorce filings as the process has become easier, allowing individuals to preserve their dignity while navigating challenging relationships. "These days, I regret to see that divorce is no longer an exceptional case but rather a phenomenon that portends the disintegration of the family structure," Al Habtoor stated on X. "Therefore, it is imperative that we approach this issue with awareness, not emotion." Al Habtoor emphasised that the foundation for resolving marital issues begins not in the courtroom but at home through proper upbringing and a deep understanding of marital responsibilities. "Marriage is not a material contract but a partnership that requires patience, containment, and ongoing dialogue," he explained. The rise of divorce among newlywed couples has been particularly noticeable in the courts and among legal professionals. "The way couples approach marriage and divorce in the UAE has changed significantly in recent years," noted Byron James, a partner at Expatriate Law and an international family law expert. "With a wider range of legal frameworks now in place — including the streamlined civil family law court in Abu Dhabi — we are gaining clearer insights into why many marriages are ending early, and how people are using the law to redefine their relationships." James described the primary legal avenues available for divorce in the UAE. He explained that the civil family law in Abu Dhabi facilitates no-fault divorces without mandatory counseling, allowing the entire process to be completed in less than 30 days. While foreign law exists, it's seldom used due to conflicts with local regulations. Additionally, the Muslim personal status law necessitates counseling and is based on Islamic principles, whereas the Non-Muslim Personal Status Law also permits no-fault divorces without requiring counseling. "The ability to file quickly and with minimal procedure has made separation more accessible," James explained. "This trend reflects broader societal changes, as many now view marriage as a partnership that must continuously align with personal growth, emotional wellbeing, and mutual respect." He continued, "When that alignment isn't there, people are quicker to move on." Even in no-fault divorce systems, common patterns tend to emerge, according to legal experts. "Some couples marry too quickly, often driven by external pressures," James noted. "Once the wedding is over, real life sets in, revealing communication gaps and mismatched priorities." Noura Al Mansouri, a Dubai-based family lawyer, echoed these sentiments, emphasising that societal factors play a crucial role in the rise of divorces. "With evolving norms, people are increasingly willing to prioritize their emotional wellbeing," she said. Al Mansouri noted that as cultural attitudes shift, many individuals now view marriage through a different lens, recognizing it as a partnership that requires ongoing effort and understanding. She pointed out that the influence of social media and modern communication has also changed how couples perceive relationships. "In today's digital age, people are exposed to various relationship models and ideals, which can lead to unrealistic comparisons," she explained. This constant exposure may contribute to dissatisfaction when real-life relationships fail to match these idealized versions. Sangeeta Manglani, a relationship coach and psychologist, highlighted the emotional dynamics at play in early divorces. "Most early divorces arise from unresolved personal issues or deep-rooted conditioning," she noted. "Many struggle with conflict resolution due to a lack of emotional connection with themselves and their partners." Effective communication, she emphasized, is the cornerstone of a healthy marriage. "Couples often assume their partner should just understand their needs, which leads to misunderstandings and frustration," Manglani explained. When partners avoid difficult conversations or communicate from a place of blame rather than understanding, it creates emotional distance that can erode the relationship. Sangeeta advised couples that pre-marital counseling is a vital resource for those preparing for marriage. She emphasized that it provides valuable insights into important areas such as communication styles, conflict resolution, financial expectations, intimacy, and family dynamics. "By discussing these topics prior to marriage, couples can build a solid foundation and ensure their values are aligned," she noted.
Associated Press
27-03-2025
- General
- Associated Press
Dr. Hassan Elhais to Represent Awatif in its first Appearance at the Prestigious International Family Law Conference in France
United Arab Emirates, March 27, 2025 -- Awatif Mohammed Shoqi, Advocates and Legal Consultancy will make its first presence at the International Family Law Conference 2025, that will be conducted between the 19th and the 22nd of March, at the Majestic Congress Centre in the heart of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. The conference, organized by the UK family law firm, Expatriate Law, will be participated by leading private client and family law professionals from around the world, who will be able to come together and exchange insights, discuss trends, and deepen their expertise on the most pressing issues in international family law, at the event. Dr. Hassan Elhais, legal consultant at Awatif Mohammed Shoqi will be conducting a presentation at the conference, sharing his expert insights on International Family Law and the UAE legal system. Having developed nearly two decades of experience as a legal consultant in Dubai, Dr. Hassan has become adept at handling cases that are unique to expats living in the UAE, dealing with cross-border issues including parental child abduction and enforcement of foreign financial awards, and drafting Sharia/ UAE laws compliant post nuptial and divorce settlement agreements. Consequently, his presentation will be focused on the issues faced by expatriates in the UAE, while navigating family laws, in the unfortunate event of a divorce. 'It is an honor to be a part of Expatriate Law's International Family Law Conference 2025 and to be able to engage in meaningful discussions with legal experts from around the world.' said Dr. Hassan. He added, 'the conference presents an invaluable opportunity to exchange insights, contribute to thought- provoking debates and stay at the forefront of developments in family law. I look forward to sharing my insights on Sharia based family law in force in the UAE, and learning from my fellow participants' This milestone marks a significant step in Awatif Mohammad Shoqi's commitment to engaging with the global legal community, contributing to discussions about the latest developments in international family laws, and the new issues faced by families in the world due to the changing times and the evolution of technology. Contact Info: Name: Dr. Hassan Elhais Organization: Dr. Hassan Elhais – Professional Lawyer Phone: +971 4 355 8000 Website: Release ID: 89156171
