Abu Dhabi family court popular globally

The Abu Dhabi Family Court has gained recognition for its streamlined divorce system.

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Many opt for the service to secure symbolic dates: “Valentine’s Day has been the most popular, with 120 applications submitted for February 14, along with dates like August 8, April 4, aswell as New Year’s and Christmas,” Elrafei noted.

The Abu Dhabi Family Court has also gained recognition for its streamlined divorce system. “Anyone can apply, even if they are not a resident, as long as they have ties to Abu Dhabi — like rented property, company links, or if they were married here but now live elsewhere,” Elrafei explained. Cases can be settled in a single session or within 30 days: “This is the quickest divorce in the world.”

This efficiency is possible because divorces are processed on a “no-fault” basis, with neither party required to prove wrongdoing. “Both men and women have equal rights to apply.” Unlike traditional laws where a woman must present evidence of the husband’s incompetency, like mistreatment, financial irresponsibility or sexual dysfunction, “here the process is straightforward”.

By default, joint custody is awarded to both parents. “As opposed to the traditional court where custody is for the mother until 12 years and then transferred to the father, here they can co-parent from day one,” he said.

Financial settlements are calculated on a formula that grants the wife 20-25 per cent of the husband’s wealth, multiplied by the number of years of marriage. “It’s similar to the end-of-service concept,” Elrafei pointed.