The eased travel rules for divorced parents and their children come at the right time, with the onset of Eid Al Adha holidays and summer vacation. On Thursday, the Dubai Courts announced the new procedures that allowed a travel ban to be cancelled in the Freedom Restriction System immediately after getting it signed by the judge. Now, it has become easier for the parent and his/her child to exit and re-enter the UAE, as compared before — when exiting the country with the child without the consent of the other parent could amount to ‘abduction’.
Emirati lawyer Ali Juwair Alla Al Ahbabi, an expert in both Shariah and international law, stated that the complexity of the old procedure sometimes led to children being deprived of opportunities for leisure, education, or timely medical treatment. He also mentioned that the reform is aimed at improving social conditions and enhancing family welfare in Dubai, which is part of the goals of Dubai Social Agenda 33. The changes aim to simplify procedures and reduce burdens for divorced parents and their children.
The new mechanism simplifies procedures and reduces burdens by allowing guardians to submit an electronic application for a travel permit through the Dubai Courts digital portal. Applications are reviewed quickly and accurately by the concerned authorities, ensuring necessary approvals are obtained in a short time. Additionally, the mechanism includes additional security measures to verify the child’s interest and ensure they are not exposed to any risks during travel. In contrast, the old mechanism required complex procedures and the guardian’s approval, causing delays and uncertainty in obtaining timely approvals.
The old system increased psychological stress for guardians and could lead to missed educational or medical opportunities for the children. In comparison, the new process provides greater peace of mind for both guardians and children thanks to the swift procedures. This new mechanism will improve the quality of families’ lives by providing a supportive environment for children and promoting smart and flexible policies and procedures that prioritize the community’s interests. It is hoped that this step will contribute to greater stability and well-being for families in Dubai. Overall, the new rules aim to streamline the process of travel for divorced parents and their children, ensuring a smoother and more efficient experience for all parties involved.
