Abortion law in Dubai requires formal approval and treatment through a specifically licensed facility when a lawful ground applies. A person should not rely on informal medication, an unlicensed clinic, or the opinion of only one doctor.
The lawful grounds identified in the source article are a life-threatening pregnancy, fetal abnormality, rape, incest, or a joint spousal request. Each route remains subject to its own evidence, consent, and timing requirements.
Where a lawful ground applies, the treating doctor prepares a formal report explaining and justifying the request. The pregnant woman signs it, or a guardian signs if necessary because she is unable to do so. Approval does not rest with one doctor. A committee within the relevant health authority reviews the request. It includes an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist, a psychiatry specialist, and a Public Prosecution representative, and may consult other specialists. The procedure can occur only after approval at a DHA or MOHAP-licensed facility under Ministerial Decree No. 285 of 2024, performed by a UAE-licensed specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist. Several grounds have a strict 120-day gestational limit. Police reports, medical tests, and hospital records may be required, so early lawful advice matters.
When Abortion Law in Dubai Allows the Approval Process
The process starts only after a lawful ground has been identified. The source article lists a pregnancy threatening the woman’s life, fetal abnormality, rape, incest, and a joint request by the spouses.
The applicable ground affects the evidence, consent, and time limit. Several grounds are subject to a strict 120-day gestational limit.
Step 1: The Treating Doctor’s Formal Report
The treating doctor prepares a formal report explaining the medical or legal basis and justifying the request. The pregnant woman signs the report, or a guardian signs where necessary because she is unable to do so.
Step 2: Review by the Competent Committee
A committee within the relevant health authority considers the request. Approval is not made by the treating doctor alone.
- An obstetrics and gynaecology specialist.
- A psychiatry specialist.
- A representative of the Public Prosecution.
- Other specialists where the committee decides consultation is needed.
Not Sure Which Ground Applies to You?
The medical report and the evidence gathered need to match the specific ground the committee will review. We can look at your situation confidentially and explain what the process actually requires.
Step 3: Approval Before Any Procedure
The procedure may occur only after the required approval has been issued. Timing can be critical because weekends, public holidays, evidence gathering, and committee scheduling may affect how quickly the file is reviewed.
Step 4: A Specifically Licensed Facility and Specialist
The procedure must take place in a facility specifically licensed by DHA or MOHAP under Ministerial Decree No. 285 of 2024. A general clinic is not enough.
It must be performed by a UAE-licensed specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology, not by a general practitioner. An unlicensed facility, unauthorised method, or informal abortion pills remain illegal regardless of whether an underlying ground might have existed.
Step 5: Follow-Up and Final Report
After an approved procedure, medical follow-up is required and a final report is prepared. The patient should use the official clinical pathway and keep the medical and approval records.
Documents and Timing
- Medical tests, treating-doctor reports, and hospital records.
- Police or Public Prosecution records where rape or incest is the stated ground.
- Identity, residency, and consent documents required for the applicable route.
Because several grounds carry a 120-day limit, delays in obtaining evidence or committee review can affect eligibility. The exact document list should be confirmed with the licensed facility and competent authority.
Racing Against the 120-Day Limit?
Committee review, police reports, and medical documentation all take time, and that clock does not pause. Reach out now so nothing is left until it is too late to act.
Cost and Confidential Support
The procedure is generally not covered by basic insurance. The source article gives a broad estimate of AED 5,000 to AED 20,000 or more depending on the facility, so the cost should be confirmed directly with the licensed clinic.
Confidential support may be available through DHA Women’s Health Services, MOHAP, and general counselling or hotline services. This article does not provide medical instructions or replace advice from licensed professionals.
Need confidential guidance on the legal approval route? Speak to a licensed medical professional and a UAE lawyer promptly, especially where a statutory time limit may apply.
Relevant Legal Services
A Family Lawyer in Dubai can explain consent and family-law issues. A Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dubai can advise on potential criminal exposure, while a Litigation Lawyer in Dubai can address related proceedings.
People Also Ask
Abortion law in Dubai requires formal medical reporting, committee approval, and treatment through an authorised facility and specialist. Anyone affected should seek prompt, confidential advice from licensed medical and legal professionals.
Confidential Legal Support, When You Need It
Whether the question is about consent, documentation, or what happens next, Leaders Advocates offers discreet, practical legal guidance alongside your medical team.
