Abortion Now Allowed in 5 Cases: Everything You Need to Know

New regulations in the UAE now allow abortions under specific circumstances, aiming to ensure safety and legality. Here’s a detailed look at the new rules of abortion in the UAE and what they mean.

When is Abortion Permitted in the UAE?

Under the new law, abortions in the UAE can be performed in five cases:

1. Pregnancy from Non-Consensual Intercourse: If the pregnancy is a result of sexual intercourse against the woman’s will or without her consent.

2. Pregnancy from Incest: If the pregnancy results from incest, meaning the person responsible for the pregnancy is a relative.

3. Spousal Request: At the request of both spouses, with the approval of a committee. The specifics of these requests are not detailed.

4. Health Risk to the Woman: If continuing the pregnancy endangers the woman’s life.

5. Severe Foetal Deformation: If the foetus has severe deformities that could affect its health and life after birth.

What Are the Conditions for the Abortion in the UAE?

- Pregnancy Duration: The abortion must be performed within 120 days of pregnancy.

- Safety: The procedure must not pose any medical risks to the woman's life.

Who Decides on Abortion Requests in the UAE?

A dedicated committee, formed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) or the head of an emirate's health authority, will oversee abortion requests in the UAE. This committee includes:

- An obstetrics and gynecology specialist

- A psychiatry specialist

- A representative from the Public Prosecution

How Does the Abortion Request Process Work in the UAE?

- Expert Consultation: The committee may consult experts and request additional documents.

- Decision Timeline: A decision will be made within 5 working days.

- Approval or Rejection: The committee's decision will be unanimous. If there's disagreement, the issue goes to the Minister or the head of the health authority.

- Justification: All decisions are justified by the approved Fatwa authorities in the State.

Can One Appeal a Decision?

- Who Can Appeal: The pregnant woman, her husband, or her guardian.

- Timeline: Appeals must be filed within 5 working days of the decision.

- Final Decision: The Minister or the head of the health authority will issue a binding final decision.

Where Can Abortions be Performed in the UAE?

- Licensed Facilities: Abortions must be done at licensed healthcare facilities by a specialist obstetrician-gynaecologist.

- Documentation: Physicians must prepare a report detailing the pregnancy duration, reasons for the abortion, necessary approvals, and procedures taken.

- Counselling: Facilities must provide medical and social counselling before and after the procedure.

Is Consent Required for an Abortion in the UAE?

- Written Consent: The pregnant woman must provide written consent. If she cannot, her husband or guardian's consent is required. In emergencies, consent is not needed.

Can Expatriates Request an Abortion in the UAE?

- Residency Requirement: Non-citizen women must have a valid UAE residency permit for at least one year before requesting an abortion.