Divorce may end the relationship between husband and wife, but it is not meant to end parenthood.

Now, the UAE has formalized this principle with the approval of a new charter. His Excellency Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in his capacity as the President of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, has issued Resolution No. 43 of 2026 for the approval of the “Post-Separation Charter,” an initiative that aligns with the priorities of the Year of Family in the UAE.

The main goal of the charter is simple yet important: children should not bear the cost of their parents' disputes.

According to this charter, parents must cooperate to maintain their child's mental and social well-being even after separation. From educational and therapeutic issues to travel and important life decisions, both parents should be informed and participate in significant decision-making.

The parent who has custody of the child must also inform the other parent about the child's educational status, health, and school activities. At the same time, the right of the other parent to visit and communicate with the child must be preserved.

Another important section of the charter pertains to how parents should behave towards each other. They should not speak ill of the other parent in front of the children or discuss the reasons for their disputes and divorce with the child. Additionally, using visitation rights or child support payments as tools for pressure or negotiation is prohibited.

This charter also emphasizes that children should grow up in a safe and stable environment and, along with education and care, become familiar with Emirati values, customs, and traditions.

If parents encounter problems in implementing this agreement, they should first attempt to resolve the dispute amicably. If this effort fails, the matter will be referred to the Family Guidance Center to provide an opportunity for reconciliation before the case reaches court.

In practice, after separation, the family guidance counselor will provide this charter to the parents so they can sign all or part of it and commit to its provisions.

The main message of the charter is clear: while married life may end, the shared responsibility of parents towards their child continues.
Source: Gulf News