ABU DHABI, Dec 12: The UAE Government announced on Friday a series of significant amendments to the Crimes and Penalties Law, introducing tougher sanctions for offences involving sexual assault or consensual sexual activity with minors. The revised provisions reinforce the country’s commitment to protecting young people from exploitation and harm.

Under the new amendments, any individual aged 18 or older who engages in sexual intercourse with a female under the age of 18, or engages in same-sex sexual activity with a minor under 18, will face imprisonment of no less than 10 years and a fine of at least Dh100,000—regardless of whether the offender claims the act was consensual.

The law further clarifies that consent is legally valid only if the victim is at least 16 years old. Any minor under 18 who participates in consensual sexual activity will be subject to the Juvenile Delinquents and Juveniles at Risk of Delinquency Law. This applies to both boys and girls, and irrespective of the gender of the other party involved.

The government also introduced stricter penalties for crimes involving the incitement, solicitation, or enticement of others to engage in debauchery or prostitution. Offenders will face imprisonment of no less than two years and a fine. If the victim is under 18, the punishment will be increased further.

In announcing the changes, the UAE Government stated: “These provisions reflect the UAE’s firm commitment to protecting minors from exploitation, abuse, and harm. The amendments reinforce the rule of law, enhance both general and specific deterrence, and ensure stronger protection for the most vulnerable segments of society.”

Upholding Justice Through Enhanced Judicial Powers

Additional amendments were made to strengthen judicial oversight and improve the assessment of criminal risk for offenders convicted of serious crimes. Courts may now order medical, psychological, and social evaluations during the final six months of an inmate’s sentence. These assessments will help authorities determine the level of risk based on the offender’s behaviour, history, specialised examinations, and professional reports.

Furthermore, the Public Prosecution may request the sentencing court to impose extra precautionary measures after the offender has completed their prison term, if the comprehensive assessment indicates a continued risk to public safety. Such measures may include placement in rehabilitation or therapeutic facilities, electronic monitoring, or other forms of supervised oversight. The court retains full discretion in approving or rejecting such requests.

In cases involving state security, the amendments grant courts the authority—upon a request by the Attorney General—to suspend the execution of certain custodial sentences if there are sufficient grounds to believe that the offender has been rehabilitated. The suspension may come with strict conditions as outlined in the Crimes and Penalties Law, but cannot exceed the duration of the original sentence.

If the offender violates any conditions or commits a new intentional crime during this period, the court may revoke the suspension and order the individual to return to prison to complete the remaining sentence.

The government emphasised that these revisions ensure “a balanced approach that protects State security while enabling opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration.”