The new UAE Penal Law decriminalized extramarital affairs and added allowances for unmarried parenting. The UAE Penal Code Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021, which was published as part of the UAE’s greatest package of legislative revisions last month, intends to improve women’s and domestic helper protection while also enhancing social cohesion and public safety.

Continue reading to learn more about abortion in the United Arab Emirates and our ultimate advice for pregnant women.

Abortion law in UAE

Anyone who wants an abortion or assists in the abortion of a child is guilty of a federal crime.

Only if the pregnant woman’s or the child’s life is in danger can a pregnancy be terminated at any point. If the kid will not survive after birth, the pregnancy can be terminated if it is less than 120 days long. A court order may also be used to terminate a pregnancy.

Anyone who aborts a pregnancy or conspires to abort a pregnancy will be prosecuted for a criminal offense.

CONSEQUENCES OF ILLEGAL ABORTION

A potential punishment of five years in prison awaits anyone who wilfully aborts a pregnant woman by giving her medication or by any other procedure that results in abortion. If the crime is committed without her consent, she will be punished with seven years in prison.

What’s the best solution for pregnant mothers?

According to the New Personal Laws of 2021, women who become pregnant outside of marriage will be provided with all legal comforts and would be cared for. However, it’s important to remember that conception outside of marriage might have serious long-term repercussions.

We advise pregnant women to consider other options. Such as marrying the child’s father if the two have already discussed starting a family. Many countries, like Georgia and Seychelles, make it quite simple for couples to obtain their marriage license in as little as two weeks.

If you’re having an unexpected pregnancy and planning a wedding, give our team of legal wedding planners a call.