In a recent family dispute, a European woman and her children were stranded outside the UAE after her husband refused to pay for their tickets back home. The Dubai Police quickly intervened to resolve the situation, offering guidance and support through the General Department of Human Rights. The couple was encouraged to reconcile while ensuring the best interests of their children were prioritized. This intervention aligned with the Wadeema law, which emphasizes the protection of children’s rights.
Major Rashid Nasser Al Ali, Head of the Child Protection Section, revealed that the wife had sought assistance from the Emirati embassy in a European country after her husband refused to cover the expenses for their children’s return tickets. The husband had initially booked a one-way ticket for them to visit her relatives for a vacation but later backed out on the return tickets. The Dubai Police promptly reached out to the father to find an amicable solution, focusing on the children’s well-being above all else.
The European woman, through the Emirati embassy and relevant authorities, filed a complaint against her husband for not supporting their living expenses. With two young children aged two years and five months, the situation prompted the embassy to intervene and seek a resolution. The husband eventually stepped up to send financial support and book return tickets for his family. The Dubai Police closely monitored the situation until the family safely returned to the UAE and were enrolled in the ‘Safe Child’ program for added security and stability.
The Child Protection section is dedicated to receiving and following up on all complaints and cases related to children’s rights both inside and outside the country. The officers are well-versed in the provisions of the Wadeema law and actively monitor reports concerning children to ensure their rights are safeguarded in accordance with the law. The General Department of Human Rights facilitates reports related to child protection through the Child and Woman Protection Service, which can be accessed via multiple channels.
The ‘Wadeema’ law was introduced in 2016 to ensure the protection of children in the UAE, named after an eight-year-old girl who was tragically tortured and killed by her father and his partner. The law mandates that all children are entitled to appropriate living standards, access to health services, education, and equal opportunities without discrimination. It also prohibits negligence, exploitation, and all forms of physical and psychological abuse against children. The law aims to provide a safe and secure environment for children to thrive and develop to their full potential.
Individuals can report child protection concerns through the Dubai Police website, smart app, or by calling (901). The Child Oasis at the Dubai Police headquarters in Al Tawar is also available for in-person visits. By raising awareness about children’s rights and actively monitoring reports, the UAE authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children within the country. With the support of the Dubai Police and the implementation of the Wadeema law, families in crisis can seek assistance and protection for their children in times of need.
