The UAE government has issued Federal Decree-Law No. 12 of 2025, amending regulations related to children of unknown parentage. The document shifts the focus away from bureaucratic procedures toward the best interests of the child – safety, development, and social integration now take priority in all guardianship and care decisions.
The law is part of a broader wave of reforms aimed at modernising social legislation in recent years. Previous rules lagged behind reality: families were willing to take children into care but faced rigid restrictions. The updated framework introduces more flexibility while maintaining strict oversight of care standards.
25 years, two spouses, one application
Families residing in the UAE are now allowed to apply for guardianship under the following conditions: a joint application from both spouses, a minimum age of 25 for each spouse, and compliance with the standards set out in the executive regulations. The age threshold is intentional – it balances maturity with the ability to provide a stable environment for a child. Detailed residency requirements have been delegated to executive regulations, allowing the rules to be adjusted without amending the law itself. This simplifies life for families who run businesses and rent property within the UAE commercial real estate market, or who own non-commercial property – proving stable residency becomes easier through standard lease agreements. Guardianship families receive a clear list of obligations:
- ensuring education and medical supervision
- providing psychological support at all stages of development
- protecting the child’s privacy and identity
Each requirement is monitored by a specialised committee that conducts regular inspections. Families using the best platform to create lease agreements UAE gain an additional advantage – legally compliant documentation simplifies residency verification when applying for guardianship.
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Single guardians: new rules
The amendments expand the pool of potential guardians. A woman residing in the UAE who is at least 30 years old and financially capable of supporting herself and a child may now assume guardianship independently. This reflects the UAE’s policy of expanding women’s social roles and recognises their ability to provide a stable family environment. The age requirement for single guardians is five years higher than for married couples – a provision that sparked debate but was justified by lawmakers as necessary to ensure additional financial stability. Oversight remains strict. If guardianship conditions are violated or requirements are no longer met, the child may be removed. In cases of minor violations, the committee may impose a corrective action plan with defined deadlines instead of immediate removal – an approach that gives families the opportunity to resolve issues without causing trauma to the child.
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What does the country gain, and who benefits?
The law aligns with the UAE’s strategy to strengthen social protection and humanitarian standards. Children of unknown parentage gain access to full family life and equal opportunities for growth and education. The state builds a system in which every child is legally protected and guardians clearly understand their responsibilities and limits. This step further reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a country where social reforms progress in parallel with economic development.
