UAE rolls out nationwide measures to shield children in family custody cases

National Initiatives Launched

Initiatives were announced during a conference organised by the Ministry of Justice’s Judicial Training Institute in cooperation with the General Women’s Union, under the patronage of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation. The conference, held under the theme “Protecting and Caring for Children in Custody: A Shared Family and Institutional Responsibility,” gathered judges, legal experts, psychologists and government officials to discuss how to better protect children after parental separation.

Key Discussions and Proposals

One of the initiatives talked about was the Post‑Separation Family Charter, which sets out a framework for handling family relationships once parents have split. It aims to foster parental cooperation and keep children’s needs central in any custody arrangement.

Attendees also stressed that children caught up in family disputes need psychological support.

Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary‑General of the General Women’s Union, said protecting children involves more than ensuring their legal rights. She explained that children also need emotional support, family stability and a safe environment to grow up in.

She pointed out the Child Custody Visitation Centre located at the General Women’s Union headquarters, which was set up together with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. The centre offers a safe space for children to stay in touch with their parents while receiving psychological and social support, and it works to lessen the effect of family disputes on them while boosting their sense of security.

Institutional Support and Recommendations

Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice and Chairman of the Federal Judicial Council, said the UAE has developed laws and judicial procedures to protect children’s rights, particularly during family disputes. He stressed that protecting children requires cooperation between courts, government institutions and organisations responsible for family welfare.

Discussions also covered how public prosecution can shield children from online dangers and why early psychological intervention matters.

Experts looked at ways digital platforms and media outlets can help safeguard children and increase awareness of their rights.

The event ended with proposals urging stronger collaboration among judicial, police and community bodies.

Attendees also advised refining child‑custody procedures and expanding family‑focused awareness programmes.

The measures seek to guarantee that children are kept safe and supported during family disputes, making their safety and wellbeing the central consideration in custody rulings.