Non-Emirati Couples, Single Women Can Foster Kids in UAE Now

Dubai: The United Arab Emirates has made a landmark decision, allowing non-Emirati couples and single women to foster children of unknown parentage. This move marks a significant shift in the country's foster care policies, previously restricted to Emirati Muslim married couples and Emirati Muslim women between 30 and 50 years old.

According to the new rules, married couples must be at least 25 years old, residents of the UAE, and have no prior convictions related to honour or trust. Single women must be at least 30 years old, unmarried, divorced or widowed and financially capable of supporting the child. The reform aims to provide a loving home to children in need, while also acknowledging the diverse family structures in the UAE.

Foster families must provide a stable home environment, not influence the child's identity or religious beliefs, demonstrate financial ability to support the child, and comply with additional conditions issued by the Ministry or local authority.