Overview
The United Arab Emirates blends civil-law codes with Islamic Sharia, especially in family and personal matters. It is a federation of seven emirates, each keeping some local authority alongside federal law.
Legal system & tradition
Federal codes — influenced by Egyptian and French civil law — govern most civil and commercial matters, while Sharia informs personal-status and some criminal questions. Individual emirates, and financial free zones like the DIFC and ADGM, can run their own courts, some applying common law in English.
Constitution & government
A provisional constitution accompanied the 1971 federation and was made permanent in 1996. It establishes federal institutions — the Supreme Council of Rulers, the President, the Council of Ministers, and the Federal National Council — and divides powers between the union and the emirates.
Courts & disputes
Most emirates use the federal court system, topped by the Federal Supreme Court; Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah run independent judiciaries. Financial free zones operate separate common-law courts in English. Recent reforms have modernised civil, commercial, and personal-status law.
Major branches of law
Rights & rule of law
Rights and duties are set out in the constitution and federal law, shaped by Islamic values. Recent reforms have expanded protections in labour, family, and personal-status law. The legal environment differs between the federal jurisdictions and the common-law free zones.
Key milestones
Higher-risk & getting help
Licensed advocates and law firms provide representation; free-zone courts have their own registered practitioners. Government portals such as u.ae explain procedures, and Ministry of Justice services assist with many matters. For emergencies, contact local police.
Official sources
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