Yes, abortion is legal in the UAE, but not like in the western countries. There are very specific conditions in which abortion is allowed; otherwise, not any woman can walk in and get an abortion. That’s not how it works in the UAE. Let’s get to know it all better.
Is Abortion Legal in the UAE?
Abortions are mostly not allowed in the United Arab Emirates, which means that if a woman just doesn’t want to continue the pregnancy, she cannot have an abortion on that basis only.
Nevertheless, the legislation of the UAE permits abortion to be carried out in certain exceptional situations only. These situations are precisely identified, and very stringent regulations are required. An abortion performed beyond these legal conditions is considered a crime.
Therefore, the main thing to keep in mind is that abortion is only legal in the UAE if it is allowed by law and approved by the proper medical authorities.
When Is Abortion Allowed in the UAE?
1. When the Mother’s Life Is in Danger
An abortion is possible when the woman’s life would be seriously endangered by the pregnancy. For example, if the woman has a very serious medical condition that making a baby would most probably result in her death or a permanent physical harm, abortion is the only solution.
Doctors need to give a precise medical explanation in writing in such situations, and they can recommend an abortion only if the patient does not have any other alternative.
2. When the Baby Has Major Physical Abnormalities
Abortion may be an option if the fetus is found to have major defects in the body that will not only cause extreme pain to the baby, but also that survival will be very difficult or even impossible after birth.
Such a decision has to be based on the medical evidence. Several specialists need, therefore, to agree that the defect is so serious, and they have to confirm that there is no treatment available.
3. Pregnancy Due to Rape or Incest
Legal changes in a recent time have indicated that if the baby is the result of a rape or incest, abortion would be a legal option. On the other hand, abortion is not a sure thing in these cases.
Authorities need to finish a proper investigation, a court needs to offer its decision and the permission of the local administration is to be granted before the procedure can happen.
4. When a Married Couple Requests It (With Approval)
Only in some cases a married couple may be allowed to request for an abortion. Nevertheless, it should not be mistaken that abortion is allowed at their discretion.
The request should satisfy the legal and medical requirements, and the consent of a medical committee should be obtained before the matter can be carried out.
The 120-Day Rule You Must Know
The time limit on pregnancy is probably one of the most important rules in the UAE.
Abortion may only be performed on pregnancies that are less than 120 days (approximately four months). The rule governs the vast majority of abortion cases allowed by law.
Abortion after 120 days of pregnancy is normally not allowed except to save the life of the woman. This rule is according to the laws of the UAE and the Islamic faith.
