DUBAI, Jan 3: A newly issued civil law in the UAE that lowers the age of legal majority from 21 Hijri (lunar) years to 18 Gregorian years is expected to have a significant impact on civil and financial transactions across the country, legal experts have said.

The decree, issued on Thursday, marks a major shift in how legal capacity is defined and exercised in the UAE, aligning the country more closely with international legal standards. Under the new provisions, individuals are now considered fully legally competent at the age of 18, based on the internationally recognised Gregorian calendar rather than the Islamic Hijri calendar.

Samara Iqbal, Founder of Aramas International Lawyers, explained that the amendment to the UAE’s Personal Status Law fundamentally changes the legal position of young adults.

“In practical terms, this reform brings the UAE in line with global norms by recognising individuals as fully competent adults at 18,” she said. “Importantly, it also replaces the Hijri calendar with the Gregorian calendar, which is the standard used worldwide.”

She added that the implications of the change are far-reaching. “Individuals who have reached the age of 18 are now presumed to have full legal capacity unless a court determines otherwise,” she noted. “This directly affects their ability to manage personal affairs, enter into contracts, and exercise legal rights without the involvement of parents or legal guardians.”

Under the revised law, individuals aged 18 and above now have full legal capacity to:

Previously, individuals under the age of 21 Hijri years were generally treated as minors for many legal purposes. This often required parental consent, guardianship oversight, or court approval for key decisions. The new framework places greater autonomy — and responsibility — on young adults from the age of 18.

Legal experts say the move from Hijri to Gregorian age calculation is a deliberate effort to harmonise UAE law with international standards. The Hijri calendar, which is lunar-based, consists of approximately 354 days per year, compared to the 364 or 365 days of the Gregorian calendar.

This discrepancy frequently led to confusion and ambiguity in legal and administrative matters. Using the Gregorian calendar now ensures consistency with passports, birth certificates, residency documents, and international contracts, while also simplifying cross-border legal dealings.

The amendment is seen as part of a broader national legislative strategy aimed at modernising the UAE’s legal framework and enhancing clarity, predictability, and global compatibility.

Despite its benefits, the reduction in the age of majority also presents challenges. Samara cautioned that not all young adults may be fully prepared to handle complex financial or legal responsibilities.

“Some individuals may lack the financial literacy or maturity needed to manage significant assets or contractual obligations,” she said. “This increases the risk of poor financial decisions, exploitation, or legal disputes.”

Experts also warn that younger adults may be more vulnerable to scams or impulsive financial behaviour, highlighting the growing importance of financial education and structured estate planning.

Despite the expanded legal capacity granted at 18, the law includes protective mechanisms. Samara confirmed that judicial oversight remains available where necessary.

“The courts retain the authority to intervene in cases involving incapacity, abuse, or mismanagement,” she said. “This is particularly relevant where substantial assets or complex financial arrangements are involved.”

The change is expected to have tangible consequences for families, particularly expatriate households. Parents are advised to reassess how financial and legal matters involving their children are structured.

“Once a child turns 18, they can legally act independently in many areas, including signing contracts and managing assets, unless specific safeguards are established,” Samara said.

As a result, early financial education, clear succession planning, and appropriate legal structures are becoming increasingly important — especially in cases where young adults may inherit property, investments, or business interests.