DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new civil law establishing 18 as the legal age of adulthood. Experts say this change will expand the rights and responsibilities of young people and align the country with international standards.
Previously, adulthood in the UAE was defined as 21 lunar years, roughly equivalent to 20 years in the Gregorian calendar. The recent amendments to the Civil Transactions Law now grant full legal and financial independence from the age of 18.
Under the new civil law, young adults can manage personal finances without needing a legal guardian’s approval. They can enter contracts, obtain bank loans, buy and sell property, and register and operate businesses independently. Minors aged 15 can also apply for judicial permission to manage their assets, supporting early entrepreneurship and financial responsibility.
The UAE government stated that this reform will standardize the age of majority across all legislation, including labor and juvenile laws. Officials say the move will improve legal clarity and consistency for residents and citizens alike.
For many Pakistanis living in the UAE, including students, young professionals, and entrepreneurs, the reform is expected to simplify access to banking services, employment, and business opportunities. The country already allows people to work, drive, marry, and be tried as adults in criminal courts from the age of 18. The new civil law now formally aligns civil responsibilities with these existing rights.
The reform is also part of the UAE’s broader efforts to encourage youth participation in economic growth. Officials hope that giving young people more independence under civil law will promote entrepreneurship and innovation across the country.
Legal analysts say this amendment to civil law represents a significant step in modernizing the UAE’s legal framework. It gives young adults greater autonomy while providing judicial oversight for those under 18 seeking financial independence.
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The UAE’s updated civil law is expected to positively impact residents, businesses, and the wider economy by empowering the younger generation to take greater responsibility for their personal and professional lives.
