Can an expat Muslim woman and an expat non-Muslim man live together in a relationship in the UAE?

It is technically possible for an expat Muslim woman and an expat non-Muslim man to live together in the UAE without facing criminal charges due to recent reforms.

They must navigate complex cultural expectations and practical challenges associated with such arrangements.

Welcome.

In the UAE, cohabitation without marriage is illegal for both Muslims and non-Muslims.

However, some laws have been relaxed for non-Muslims in certain emirates since 2020. It's important to ensure compliance with local laws.

Dear Questioner,

Thanks for your inquiry.

Regarding the above, we would like to inform you that:

Legal Status of Cohabitation:

Under the revised UAE laws (Federal Decree-Law No. 15 of 2020), cohabitation for unmarried couples is no longer a criminal offense.

This means that expatriates can legally live together without being married, regardless of their religions, provided they respect public morals and local customs.

Cultural and Religious Sensitivities:

While the law permits such arrangements, it is essential to be mindful of the UAE's cultural and religious values. Cohabiting couples should exercise discretion and avoid actions that could be perceived as disrespectful to local norms.

Specific Considerations for Muslim Women:

Muslim women are subject to Sharia law in personal matters. While the UAE allows expatriates to follow their home country's laws in civil matters, a Muslim woman engaging in a live-in relationship with a non-Muslim man might face additional scrutiny if there is a formal legal dispute or family complaint.

Greetings,

Mohammed Salah

When there is no marriage, religion or nationality does not matter.

According to UAE laws, such a relationship is not considered a crime and does not create any rights for either party.