Domestic Violence Legal Consequences in Dubai

15 October 2024

Bini Saroj

Domestic violence is a significant offense that impacts numerous people globally, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural backgrounds.   The government of Dubai has made significant efforts to tackle the problem and safeguard its residents from the negative consequences of domestic violence.  

Dubai: The goal of this blog section is to offer a comprehensive explanation of domestic violence, its various manifestations, and the repercussions perpetrators face in Dubai.  

Understanding Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is when one person in a close relationship displays abusive behavior or controlling patterns towards another individual.   This can involve various forms of abuse such as physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial, and is not exclusive to violence against women.   Men, children, and the elderly can also experience domestic violence as victims.  

Forms of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can come in many forms, including:

1. Physical Abuse

The act consists of using physical force or aggression towards an individual which results in physical injury, harm, or fatality.   Instances may involve striking, smacking, boxing, strangling, shoving, or utilizing weaponry.  

2. Emotional/Psychological Abuse

This type of abuse involves a consistent pattern of actions that erode the victim's self-worth, belief in oneself, and emotional health.   Instances may involve making the victim feel small, embarrassing them, offering continual disapproval, separating them from loved ones, and dictating their actions and choices.   

3. Sexual Abuse

This refers to any non-consensual or coerced sexual behavior experienced by the victim.   It can encompass acts such as rape, sexual assault, or compelling the victim to participate in degrading or humiliating actions.

4. Financial Abuse

This form of abuse happens when one partner manipulates the other's ability to access money, ultimately making them rely on the partner financially.   Some instances include holding back money, monitoring spending, or blocking the victim from finding employment or furthering their education.   

Punishments for Domestic Violence in Dubai

The legal system in Dubai is rooted in Islamic Sharia law and places strong emphasis on addressing domestic violence.   Penalties for domestic violence in Dubai are strict and intended to prevent abuse and safeguard victims.

1. Imprisonment

Those who commit domestic violence may be sentenced to prison for different lengths of time based on how serious the abuse was.   The judge decides the duration of the sentence, which could be anywhere from a few months to many years.

2. Fines

Abusers may have to pay fines in addition to serving time in prison.   The judge decides the amount of the fine, which is meant to provide some form of restitution to the victim for the harm they experienced.   

3. Deportation

If the offender is not a citizen of the UAE, they might be expelled from the nation once they have completed their term in jail.

4. Restraining Orders

The court has the authority to grant a restraining order to safeguard the victim from additional abuse.   This order forbids the abuser from communicating, bothering, or coming near the victim.

5. Custody and Parental Rights

In situations where children are involved, the court has the authority to terminate the abuser's custody or visitation privileges in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the children.

Conclusion

Domestic violence is a serious crime with harmful consequences for both individuals and communities.   Dubai has implemented strict regulations and penalties to tackle this problem, safeguarding its residents.   It is crucial for victims to seek assistance from law enforcement or support groups, and for the community to actively educate people on the issue of domestic violence and its impacts.  

ALKETBI TOUCH:

ALKETBI team is highly skilled and frequently provides legal assistance in this era of change, where adaptability is key, if you are experiencing domestic abuse, it is strongly advised to contact the authorities and consult with a legal expert to secure the restitution you are entitled to.