Questions & Answers
Can my guardian stop me from leaving the UAE after I pass immigration?
Hello,
I am trying to leave the country. My father is my residency sponsor and guardian. I am 19 years old and not from the UAE. Am I allowed to travel alone without my father’s consent?
I am planning to run away and seek asylum abroad because they are abusive, and I have proof of it.
My father does not know that I am traveling, but after I pass immigration, he might receive an SMS notification that I have passed immigration and exited the country.
Can he file a travel ban on me after I pass immigration? Can he stop me in any way? Since the age of majority in the UAE is 21, I am unsure if I am considered an adult.
This is an emergency, and my father could kill me.
Dear questioner,
In the United Arab Emirates, the legal age of majority is 21 years. Since you are 19 years old, you are still considered a minor under the law, and your father remains legally responsible for you.
As your sponsor, he may have the right to restrict your travel without his consent. However, if you are facing a genuine threat to your safety, you can seek help from the relevant authorities, such as the police or family protection agencies, for appropriate legal protection and support.
It is advisable to consult a specialized lawyer to take the correct legal steps.
For further legal assistance, feel free to contact me.
Mohamed Salah Shoeib
Legal Consultant
Dear Madam,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your sensitive and urgent situation!
I understand your concerns and the gravity of the circumstances you've described. Given the complexity and potential legal implications of your query, I must advise the following:
1. Legal Status:
In the UAE, the age of majority is indeed 21 years old. However, travel regulations can be complex, especially in cases involving potential abuse.
2. Immediate Safety:
Your safety is of utmost importance. If you believe you are in immediate danger, please contact local law enforcement or emergency services without delay.
3. Professional Assistance:
I strongly recommend seeking assistance from professionals who are equipped to handle such sensitive cases:
a) Contact the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children at [----------] or visit their website [----------]. They provide confidential support and shelter for abuse victims.
b) Reach out to the Abu Dhabi Social Support Centre at [----------] if you are in Abu Dhabi.
c) Consider contacting your home country's embassy or consulate in the UAE for guidance and potential assistance.
4. Legal Counsel:
Given the legal complexities surrounding residency, guardianship, and international travel in your situation, it is crucial to consult with a legal professional who specializes in family law and human rights in the UAE.
5. Documentation:
If safe to do so, gather and secure any evidence or documentation that supports your claims of abuse. This may be crucial for any legal proceedings or asylum applications.
Your safety and well-being are paramount. I urge you to seek immediate professional help through the channels mentioned above.
Yours sincerely,
I’m truly sorry to hear about your situation, and I understand the urgency of your concern!
Legally, in the UAE, the age of majority is 21, meaning your father still holds legal guardianship over you until then. This can impact your ability to travel without his consent, as he may have certain legal rights over your residency and movement.
Once you pass immigration and exit the UAE, a travel ban cannot typically be imposed retroactively. However, if your father reports you missing or files a case, there could be legal implications.
Given the seriousness of your case, especially involving abuse, you may have legal options to seek protection before leaving. If you have concrete evidence of abuse, you may be able to seek legal intervention in the UAE before taking further steps.
I strongly recommend that you get proper legal advice before making any decisions to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
Please reach out to me immediately via WhatsApp or phone at [-----------], and I can guide you on the best course of action.
Stay safe,
Suhail Rana
Greetings,
In the UAE, the legal age of majority is 21 years, meaning parental consent may still be required for travel if you are under this age. However, given the urgency of your situation, legal options may be available to protect you.
While your father may not be able to impose a travel ban after you have already left, it is crucial to act carefully, as legal and immigration procedures can vary. If you have evidence of abuse, there may be legal protections available.
To assess your options and ensure your safety, we strongly recommend seeking immediate legal consultation. Book an appointment with us today.
Stay safe.
