How to Calculate Child Support in UAE According to UAE Law (Nafaqa)

In the UAE, child support, known as "Nafaqa," is determined by the UAE Personal Status Law, which is based on Islamic Sharia principles. Calculating child support in the UAE involves various factors, with the primary goal being to ensure the child’s well-being and maintain their standard of living. Here's a step-by-step guide on how child support is calculated under UAE law:

  • Parental Income and Financial Ability

    The father's financial capability plays a critical role in determining child support. UAE courts evaluate the father’s:

    • Income
    • Assets
    • Overall financial situation

    Unlike some Western jurisdictions, the UAE does not have a fixed formula or percentage to calculate child support. Instead, the court exercises discretion based on the father's financial status and the child's needs.

  • Basic Needs of the Child

    Child support in the UAE typically covers a variety of basic needs, including:

    • Housing: The father may be required to pay for the child’s accommodation or rent if the mother and child do not own their home.
    • Education: School fees, books, uniforms, and other educational-related expenses are included.
    • Medical Care: Health insurance, medical treatments, and routine check-ups.
    • Food & Clothing: Essential living costs such as food, clothing, and personal care.
    • Transportation: Costs for school transport or other commuting needs.
  • Custody Arrangements

    In most cases, the custodial parent (usually the mother) receives child support from the non-custodial parent (typically the father). The amount can depend on the custody and visitation rights established by the court, with primary care typically influencing the payment structure.

  • Lifestyle of the Family

    The UAE courts take into account the child’s previous lifestyle before the divorce or separation. The primary objective is to ensure the child continues to enjoy a standard of living similar to what they experienced during the marriage. This consideration includes housing standards, extracurricular activities, and overall comfort.

  • Multiple Children

    If the couple has more than one child, the court may increase the total amount of child support. The judge will consider the needs of each child, ensuring that the financial obligation grows proportionally to accommodate multiple children’s requirements.

  • Duration of Child Support

    In most cases, child support in the UAE continues until the child reaches adulthood (age 18) or until a daughter marries. However, if the child is still pursuing education or has special needs, child support payments may be extended beyond this period, as per the court’s decision.

  • Modifications to Support

    Over time, circumstances may change, such as a parent losing their job or a child needing additional financial support for education or health reasons. In such cases, either parent may apply to the court to modify the child support arrangement. The court will reassess the situation and may adjust the payments accordingly.

  • Court Discretion

    The amount of child support is ultimately decided by the UAE courts, taking into consideration the child’s best interests and the father's ability to provide. The courts aim to balance the financial needs of the child with the father's financial capacity.

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User Instructions

The Child Support Calculator helps you estimate child support payments based on the father's monthly income. The calculator provides the estimated support amount and an additional custodian fee. It also offers a text-to-speech feature that reads the results aloud, available in both English and Arabic.

How to Use the Calculator:

  1. Enter the Father's Monthly Income:
  2. Select the Language:
  3. Calculate the Support Amount:
  4. Listen to the Results:
  5. Understanding the Disclaimer:
Child Support Calculator

Child Support Calculator Listen

These figures serve as general guidelines. The actual amount might vary based on the specifics of the case, including the number of children, their needs, and any special circumstances. However, it's important to note that while these guidelines provide a framework, the final decision is made by the UAE courts, which take into account all relevant factors in determining the appropriate amount of child support.

Still can't find what you're looking for? Submit your question, and we'll reach out to answer all your inquiries.

Child Support Percentage in the UAE Based on Income

According to the Regulatory Procedures Guide for Personal Status Matters, the law determines the percentage of child support from the father's income in a manner that is proportionate to his income, provided that it does not exceed 60% of his net income, taking into account debts and other financial obligations.

The percentage of each child's support from the father's salary is estimated as follows:

  • If the father's income is AED 5,000 or less:
  • If the father's income is between AED 20,000 and AED 30,000:
  • If the father's income is AED 70,000 or more:

Please note: These are general guidelines and the actual amount of child support can vary depending on individual circumstances and the discretion of the court. It is always advisable to consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Key Points:

  • Child support is calculated based on a percentage of the father's net income.
  • The percentage can vary depending on the father's income.
  • Additional allowances are provided for childcare.
  • The final decision on the amount of child support rests with the court.
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