Recent cases highlighted growing concerns among wives living outside the UAE regarding their legal rights against husbands residing within the country, particularly in situations involving neglect and lack of financial support despite the husbands maintaining a stable standard of living.

At the same time, some husbands raised questions about how alimony for divorced wives and children living abroad is calculated, and whether it should reflect the cost of living in the country of residence or in the UAE, given the significant economic differences between countries.

Legal consultant Dr Yousef Al Sharif confirmed that UAE law allows non residents to file personal status cases before UAE courts, provided the defendant resides or works within the country, covering cases related to divorce, alimony, custody, and other legal entitlements.

He explained that the determination of alimony is primarily based on the financial capacity of the obligated party, while also considering the economic conditions of both parties across time and location, including a balance between living standards in both countries involved.

He added that courts assess such cases based on the jurisdiction of the defendant residence or workplace, with the possibility of adjusting alimony amounts depending on changes in financial or living conditions, ensuring fairness and protection of rights for all parties involved.