UAE Lowers Legal Adulthood Age to 18: What the New Law Means for Residents

Previously, someone under 21 Hijri years was generally treated as a minor for many legal purposes, often requiring a guardian’s consent or court oversight

A new civil law issued by the UAE that reduces the age of majority from 21 lunar years to 18 Gregorian years will have a “significant” impact, according to experts.

The decree that came out on Thursday will shift the way civil transactions are regulated in the country. Here is a breakdown of what the law specifies:

What has changed

According to Samara Iqbal, Founder of Aramas International Lawyers UAE’s Personal Status Law has reduced the age of majority from 21 Hijri years to 18 Gregorian years.

“In practical terms, this aligns the UAE with international norms by recognising individuals as fully legally competent adults at 18, based on the internationally used Gregorian calendar rather than the Islamic Hijri calendar.”

She added that the impact was significant. “Individuals aged 18 are now presumed to have full legal capacity unless a court rules otherwise,” she said.

“This affects how young adults can manage their affairs, enter contracts, and exercise legal rights without parental or guardian involvement.”

What it means

At 18, individuals now have full legal capacity to:

Enter binding contracts

Manage and dispose of their assets

Litigate or be sued in their own name

Make independent financial and legal decisions

Previously, someone under 21 Hijri years was generally treated as a minor for many legal purposes, often requiring a guardian’s consent or court oversight. The change places greater autonomy and responsibility on 18-year-olds.

Why the change from Hijri to Gregorian?

The change from Hijri years to Gregorian age represents a move from the UAE to amend the law in accordance with international standards. Earlier, following the Hijri standard — which adheres to a lunar calendar — often created confusion and ambiguity. While the Gregorian year is 364 or 365 days a year, the Hijri calendar is about 354 days. Using Gregorian year aligns with passports, birth certificates, and global contracts and makes cross-border legal matters clearer.

The new law represents a pivotal legislative milestone. It is part of the national legislative trajectory focused on modernising the legal framework.

What are the challenges?

While the lowering of legal age is beneficial in many ways, it can also bring with it several challenges. “Some young adults may not yet have the financial literacy or maturity to manage complex assets or legal obligations,” said Samara. “This could increase the risk of poor financial decisions, exploitation, or disputes.”

Younger adults are also more vulnerable to scams and can be susceptible to making financially irresponsible decisions. Experts have warned that a solid financial education and proper estate planning will become non-negotiable.