Family & Personal Cases

Non-Muslims fall under the Federal Civil Personal Status Law, which allows unilateral no-fault divorce and establishes equal joint custody for both parents until age 18. Foreign nationals may also request application of their home country’s law in certain cases. Choosing the most suitable law is a strategic decision affecting custody, alimony, and inheritance.

Under the current federal Personal Status Law, custody continues until the child turns 18 unless the court decides otherwise in the child’s interest, and a child who has reached 15 may choose between parents. For non-Muslims, equal joint custody is the default. The child’s best interest governs in all cases.

Alimony is assessed based on the payer’s means, the recipient’s needs, and the previous standard of living; courts typically verify income through salary certificates, bank statements, and trade licences. Maintenance can always be increased or reduced when circumstances change, usually via a new claim one year after the judgment. Properly documenting the other party’s income is the key to a fair assessment.

Family disputes must generally go before the Family Guidance Committee for conciliation first; the case is only registered after conciliation fails and a referral is issued. Urgent and interim matters (such as temporary maintenance) and certain non-conciliable claims are exempt. Attending the committee properly advised protects your position if the matter proceeds to court.