How to report domestic violence in the UAE and get help
Domestic violence victims in the UAE can access helplines, shelters and support
Dubai: Many victims of domestic violence remain silent, often due to fear of breaking social norms, being identified, or losing financial and emotional support from their spouse. The burden of psychosocial abuse, combined with these fears, can make it incredibly difficult for victims to come forward.
Reporting abuse, especially when the abuser is a family member is an emotionally overwhelming and daunting step. But when the moment comes to seek help, it can start with a simple phone call.
Across the UAE, there are helplines, police departments, and support centres for women and children that offer assistance, with some services allowing reports to be made anonymously.
How to report domestic violence in the UAE
The UAE has established clear and accessible channels for individuals to seek help, whether through local police, helplines, shelters or specialised support centres. The country’s legal framework has also evolved to provide stronger protection for victims, including children, family members and domestic workers.
Helplines and reporting channels
Victims or witnesses of domestic abuse in the UAE can report incidents through the following helplines and services, which operate across different emirates:
At the Federal level (across the UAE) – For children
Ministry of Interior (MOI) – Child Protection Centre: 116111
Ministry of Education (MOE) – Child Protection Unit: 80085
In Dubai
Dubai Police – Child and Women Protection Department (General Department of Human Rights): 04 274 4666
Reports can also be submitted via the Victim Support section on the Dubai Police website or app.
Al Ameen Service: 800 4444
An anonymous government service to report any concerns, including abuse.
Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC): 800 111
Available to all residents in Dubai and across the UAE.
Community Development Authority: 800 988
In Abu Dhabi
EWAA Shelter for Women and Children: 800 7283
Abu Dhabi Police – Social Support Centre: 02 657 3699
Family Welfare Authority: 800 5354
In the Northern Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah)
Hemaya Foundation for Children and Women (Ajman) : 800 446292
Sharjah Social Services Department / Child and Family Protection Centre: 800 700
Ministry of Interior – Social Support Centre (Ajman): 050 897 3223
Ministry of Interior – Social Support Centre (Ras Al Khaimah): 07 205 5155
Legal protection under UAE’s Domestic Violence Law
In 2024, the UAE implemented a new domestic violence law – Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 on the Protection from Domestic Violence which strengthens legal safeguards for victims and imposes stricter penalties on perpetrators.
Expanded definition of domestic violence
The new law broadens the legal definition of domestic violence to include:
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Psychological and emotional abuse
Economic abuse
This change recognises that harm can be inflicted in many forms beyond physical violence.
Enhanced reporting and confidentiality
Victims can report abuse through multiple official channels, including the police, public prosecution, and dedicated protection centres. The law guarantees the right to privacy and confidentiality, protection from retaliation and support during investigation and prosecution.
Mandatory reporting obligations
Under the 2024 law, there is now a legal duty for certain individuals to report known or suspected cases of domestic violence. This includes family members, medical professionals, social workers and educators.
Failure to report abuse or filing a false or malicious report can lead to fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000.
Penalties for abusers
The 2024 law introduces significantly tougher penalties for perpetrators of domestic violence, with fines increasing by up to five times compared to previous legislation. For example, fines for domestic abuse now range from Dh5,000 to Dh50,000, as compared to the previous fines, which ranged from Dh1,000 to a maximum of Dh10,000.
The new legislation significantly increases fines and strengthens consequences for repeat offenders:
Violating restraining orders: Fine of up to Dh20,000
Repeat offences: Prison sentences can be doubled if a second offence occurs within one year, regardless of severity
Using threats or force to withdraw a complaint: Punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine between Dh10,000 and Dh50,000
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
