UAE Lowers Age Of Legal Adulthood To 18: What The New Law Means, Impact On Residents

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

A new civil law issued by the UAE that reduces the age of majority from 21 lunar years to 18 Gregorian years will have a“significant” impact, according to experts.

The decree that came out on Thursday will shift the way civil transactions are regulated in the country. Here is a breakdown of what the law specifies:

What has changedRecommended For You

According to Samara Iqbal, Founder of Aramas International Lawyers UAE's Personal Status Law has reduced the age of majority from 21 Hijri years to 18 Gregorian years.

“In practical terms, this aligns the UAE with international norms by recognising individuals as fully legally competent adults at 18, based on the internationally used Gregorian calendar rather than the Islamic Hijri calendar.”

She added that the impact was significant.“Individuals aged 18 are now presumed to have full legal capacity unless a court rules otherwise,” she said.

“This affects how young adults can manage their affairs, enter contracts, and exercise legal rights without parental or guardian involvement.”

What it means

At 18, individuals now have full legal capacity to:

• Enter binding contracts

• Manage and dispose of their assets

• Litigate or be sued in their own name

• Make independent financial and legal decisions

Previously, someone under 21 Hijri years was generally treated as a minor for many legal purposes, often requiring a guardian's consent or court oversight. The change places greater autonomy and responsibility on 18-year-olds.

Why the change from Hijri to Gregorian?

The change from Hijri years to Gregorian age represents a move from the UAE to amend the law in accordance with international standards. Earlier, following the Hijri standard - which adheres to a lunar calendar - often created confusion and ambiguity. While the Gregorian year is 364 or 365 days a year, the Hijri calendar is about 354 days. Using Gregorian year aligns with passports, birth certificates, and global contracts and makes cross-border legal matters clearer.

The new law represents a pivotal legislative milestone. It is part of the national legislative trajectory focused on modernising the legal framework.

What are the challenges?

While the lowering of legal age is beneficial in many ways, it can also bring with it several challenges.“Some young adults may not yet have the financial literacy or maturity to manage complex assets or legal obligations,” said Samara.“This could increase the risk of poor financial decisions, exploitation, or disputes.”

Younger adults are also more vulnerable to scams and can be susceptible to making financially irresponsible decisions. Experts have warned that a solid financial education and proper estate planning will become non-negotiable.

Are there any safety nets?

Samara clarified that despite the changes, there are some safety nets in place.“The law still provides safeguards,” she said.

“Courts retain the authority to intervene where there is evidence of incapacity, abuse, or mismanagement, particularly in relation to significant assets.”

What does it mean for families in the UAE?

The change means that for many expatriate families in the UAE, it will have real impacts.“Parents should be aware that once a child turns 18, they may legally act independently in many matters, including signing contracts or managing assets, unless specific protections are put in place,” said Samara.

“This makes early financial education and proper estate planning even more important, particularly where minors stand to inherit assets or hold shares in businesses.”

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