UAE Age of Majority Changes: What Parents of Young Adults Should Know

A significant legal shift is coming to the UAE on 1 June 2026 that will affect families with older teenagers and young adults. Federal Decree-Law 25 of 2025 officially lowers the age of majority from 21 to 18, aligning the Emirates with international standards and bringing important practical changes for expatriate families.

What Does Legal Adulthood Mean?

For parents of children with special needs who are approaching or have recently turned 18, this legal change carries particular weight. Young adults will now be recognised as having full legal capacity at 18, meaning they can independently sign contracts, open bank accounts, enter into mobile phone agreements and sign housing leases without parental consent.

This presents both opportunities and considerations. For young people who are ready for greater independence, the change removes bureaucratic barriers. However, for families with young adults who require ongoing support in decision-making, it may necessitate exploring guardianship arrangements or powers of attorney to ensure appropriate assistance continues.

Impact on Family Planning and Wills

International law firms advising in the UAE are urging expatriate families to review existing wills and estate planning documents. Under the new law, beneficiaries will inherit at 18 rather than 21, which may accelerate access to family assets. For families with special needs trusts or structured inheritance plans, this timing change requires careful review.

Private wealth advisers recommend updating UAE wills to reflect the new age threshold and to ensure that any protective provisions for vulnerable young adults remain effective under the revised legal framework.

Employment and Financial Considerations

The reform also affects young adults entering the workforce or pursuing higher education. Eighteen-year-olds can now sign employment contracts independently, which streamlines hiring for internships and entry-level positions. Universities hosting international students expect smoother visa renewals as financial sponsor requirements adjust.

However, families should be aware that health insurance premiums for 18- to 20-year-olds will be priced at adult rates starting in June, which may slightly increase family coverage costs.

What Families Should Do Now

Parents and caregivers should take several practical steps before the June implementation date:

• Review existing legal documents, including wills, trusts and guardianship arrangements
• Consult with legal advisers about whether formal guardianship or power of attorney arrangements are appropriate for young adults who require decision-making support
• Discuss financial literacy and contractual responsibilities with young people who will be assuming new legal rights
• Update family financial planning to account for potential changes in insurance premiums and inheritance timing
• Contact employers or educational institutions about how the change affects dependent status or visa arrangements

Planning for Supported Decision-Making

For families whose young adults require ongoing support, the legal shift provides an opportunity to formalise helpful structures. Rather than automatic parental authority continuing past 18, families can work with legal professionals to establish appropriate supported decision-making frameworks that respect the young person's autonomy whilst providing necessary assistance.

This might include limited powers of attorney for specific areas such as medical decisions or financial management, or more comprehensive guardianship arrangements where appropriate. The key is ensuring that legal frameworks match the individual needs and capabilities of each young person.

Looking Ahead

Whilst this legal change brings the UAE in line with international norms, it requires thoughtful preparation from families—particularly those supporting young adults with additional needs. Taking time now to review legal documents, discuss expectations and establish appropriate support structures will help ensure a smooth transition when the new law takes effect on 1 June 2026.

Families are encouraged to seek professional legal and financial advice tailored to their specific circumstances well before the implementation date.