Splitting joint property and choosing the law in a couple divorce from different religions

Dear Questioner,

Your friend may apply for divorce before the personal status court. If both husband and wife agree, they can even apply for mutual divorce and the order can be obtained from the UAE courts through direct and time-efficient procedures.

If the husband proves the adultery, before the criminal court, the family court may put down the rights of the wife including custody of children [if any].

However, in a criminal court, an allegation of adultery would need to be substantiated with proof that a physical relationship existed outside wedlock.

If it is proven to be the wife’s fault, it can be dealt with in the following two ways:

i. either she will be given divorce upon paying a certain amount of compensation;

ii. Or unless the husband requests to maintain the marriage, the court, subject to the court’s discretion to preserving the marriage, can reject the divorce.

Article 71 of UAE Personal Status Law states circumstances in which alimony can be forfeited:

1) if the wife leaves the marital home or refuse to return to the family home or if she refuses to travel with the husband without any valid reasons, however, it cannot be considered as a breach of liability if she has left the house for necessary work or customary reasons;

2) If she restricts her husband to enter the marital residence

3) if she has an arrest warrant in any other case

Regarding the property share, you will have to file your claim in a separate property case. The matter relating to your shareholding will be investigated by the court, provided your name is mentioned on the title deeds and the house sale and purchase agreement.

Regards,

Rajasree Ravivarma