Dubai: Starting in April, at least four significant legal and policy updates will impact residents and travellers in the UAE and beyond.
These updates aim to modernise legal frameworks, from stricter family welfare protections under the UAE’s new Personal Status Law to revised employment regulations in Abu Dhabi’s financial hub. In Dubai, parking fees will fluctuate based on peak hours, while travellers heading to the UK will face increased visa costs.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
New variable parking rates in Dubai
Starting April 4, Parkin Company PJSC will implement the Variable Parking Tariff Policy. The new parking rates will vary depending on peak and off-peak hours to improve parking management in congested and high-demand areas.
Off-peak hours: (10am to 4pm and 8pm to 10pm) – Rates will remain unchanged and will follow the existing tariff structure.
Peak hours: (8am to 10am and 4pm to 8pm) – Premium parking spots will be charged at Dh6 per hour in all public parking zones.
Sundays and Public Holidays: No parking fees apply.
In December, Parkin announced that this revised structure aims to optimise parking management in busy areas and improve traffic flow, especially during peak times and major events.
Recently, Parkin updated the Variable Parking Tariff Policy and it will now apply peak and off-peak tariffs across 100 per cent of public parking spaces and around 35 per cent of developer-owned spaces, depending on the type of parking facility (Standard or Premium Parking) and the timing of use, Gulf News reported.
Premium Parking areas, often located near public transport hubs and in densely populated areas, will have clear signage displaying tariff details.
2-. UAE’s new Personal Status Law
On October 2024, the UAE government announced a new Personal Status Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024), which places greater emphasis on balancing parental rights, safeguarding child welfare, and introducing modern provisions for Muslims residing in the UAE. This law will take effect on April 15, replacing Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 on Personal Status.
The revised law aims to enhance family stability, simplify legal procedures, and address contemporary social challenges. The changes affect personal status matters, financial obligations, and guardianship regulations.
Key provisions:
The law applies by default to UAE citizens and residents. Non-Muslim citizens and some UAE residents may choose to follow a different legal framework. Additionally, under certain conditions, the law may also apply to non-UAE residents.
The updated law introduces stricter penalties, ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh100,000, for violations such as assault on a minor’s property, unauthorised travel with a child, abuse, neglect, or failure to provide necessary care and support for parents when required.
Some key changes in family law:
Marriage age: The legal marriage age remains 18, as per the 2019 amendment. However, anyone under 18 requires court approval.
If there is an age gap of more than 30 years between prospective spouses, court approval is also mandatory.
Engagement rules: Engagements are recognised as proposals, not binding contracts. Engagement gifts may be reclaimed under specific conditions, such as if they were given on the condition of marriage and are not consumable items.
Child custody: The law introduces a more progressive approach to custody arrangements, prioritising the child’s best interests and reflecting modern family dynamics.
3- New Employment regulations at Abu Dhabi’s International Financial Centre (ADGM)
The Registration Authority (RA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has published the Employment Regulations 2024, which aim to reflect global changes in workplace practices and provide greater clarity regarding the rights and obligations of employers and employees. These new regulations, effective from April 1, are intended to promote best employment practices in ADGM.
Key changes in employment regulations:
The definition of an 'employee' has been amended to enable employers to hire remote employees and introduce more flexible working arrangements.
Clarifications have been made regarding employee entitlements, including part-time employees.
Clearer guidance has been provided on obtaining and cancelling an employee’s work permit and visa.
Obligations related to discrimination and victimisation in the workplace have been expanded.
The previous Employment Regulations of 2019 will be repealed when the new regulations take effect. Employers are advised to review their internal policies, employment contracts, and other employment-related matters to ensure compliance with the updated requirements.
4. Increase in UK visa fees
Starting April 9, those applying for UK visit, student, or work visas will face increased fees as part of the UK government’s strategy to ensure the migration system is financially sustainable.
New visa fees:
Standard six-month visit visa: Increasing from £115 (Dh547.7) to £127 (Dh604.9).
Student visa fees: Rising from £490 (Dh2,334) to £524 (Dh2,495.9).
Skilled Worker visa (up to 3 years): Increasing from £719 (Dh3,424) to £769 (Dh3,662.9).
Skilled Worker visa (up to 5 years): Increasing from £1,420 (Dh6,763.8) to £1,519 (Dh7,235.4).
According to the UK Home Office, these adjustments are intended to reduce taxpayer subsidies and move towards full cost recovery for the migration and border system.