Procedures for Filing a Alimony Claim in Dubai + Required Documents + Timeline + Cost

The correct procedures, required documents, expected duration for issuing a judgment, and the costs associated with the case. This article provides a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know before filing a maintenance (alimony) claim in Dubai. It also includes practical tips to help you speed up the procedures and ensure you receive your full financial rights safely and efficiently.

First: Types of Maintenance in Dubai

1. Spousal Maintenance

• Includes food, drink, housing, and clothing.
• The wife is entitled to maintenance if the marriage is ongoing, or in some cases after divorce according to UAE law.
• Spousal maintenance may also include education or medical expenses if needed.

2. Child Maintenance

• Covers education, medical care, food, drink, and housing when the child resides with one of the parents.
• The amount is determined based on the father’s income and the child’s needs, considering the circumstances of each family.
• Child maintenance can be requested after divorce or separation, and the court may adjust the amount as the child’s needs change.

3. Maintenance for Parents or Relatives

• In certain cases, parents or relatives may request maintenance if they are unable to meet their basic needs.
• It must be proven that the beneficiary is unable to work or lacks sufficient income to support themselves.

Second: Legal Procedures for Filing a Maintenance Claim

1. Submitting the Claim to the Competent Court

• The claim is filed with the Personal Status Court in Dubai.
• The application includes full details of both the claimant and the defendant, and the type of maintenance requested.
• It is important to specify the required maintenance accurately to facilitate the judgment and avoid disputes.

2. Receiving the Claim & Scheduling the First Hearing

• After submitting the claim, the court sets a date for the first hearing.
• The other party is officially notified of the hearing date through approved legal channels.
• Hearings may be postponed if some required documents are missing.

3. Submitting Supporting Documents

Common required documents include:

• Marriage or divorce certificate depending on the type of maintenance.
• Identification documents for both parties.
• Financial papers or evidence proving the defendant’s income and ability to pay maintenance.
• Additional documents supporting the request (school receipts, medical bills, living expenses, etc.).

Tip: Prepare original and certified copies of all documents to avoid delays.

4. Attending Hearings and Presenting Arguments

• Both parties or their lawyers must attend to present arguments and defend their rights.
• The court may request additional hearings to verify documents or assess the defendant’s financial capacity.
• Sometimes, the court suggests an amicable settlement before issuing the final judgment, which helps save time and cost.

Third: Expected Duration for Issuing the Judgment

• Simple cases: Usually 1–3 months if all documents are complete and both parties attend regularly.
• Complex cases: May take 6 months or more, especially when financial evaluation or disputes occur.

Following up regularly with your lawyer or in person helps speed up the process.

Note: Commitment to deadlines and attending hearings are key to shortening the case duration.

Fourth: Cost of Filing a Maintenance Claim

1. Court Fees

Range between AED 500–2000 depending on the type of maintenance and claim value.

2. Lawyer Fees

Vary according to experience and complexity of the case.
Usually between AED 3000–10000 for simple and medium-level cases.

3. Additional Documentation Costs

Certification, official copies, and document authentication services.
Costs may be reduced if an amicable settlement is reached before final judgment.

Fifth: Practical Tips to Protect Your Rights

• Hire a specialized lawyer to ensure accurate documentation and proper case handling.
• Keep records of school receipts, medical expenses, and essential invoices.
• Clearly state the maintenance amount requested to avoid partial rejection.
• Follow up regularly with the court or your lawyer.
• Consider a friendly settlement; many cases are resolved before judgment, saving time and money.

Sixth: Practical Cases and Past Experiences

• Some claimants obtained fast judgments by providing complete documents and working with a committed lawyer.
• Delays occurred in cases where documents were missing or one party failed to attend hearings, highlighting the importance of good preparation.
• Families have successfully modified filing a maintenance amounts later based on financial changes, showing the flexibility of UAE law.

Conclusion

Good preparation, hiring a specialized lawyer from Legal Advice US, and complete documentation ensure that you receive your financial rights quickly and with minimal effort. Understanding the legal steps and adhering to them saves time, money, and future complications.

If you are considering filing a maintenance claim in Dubai or need legal assistance in preparing documents and dealing with the court, contact us now on WhatsApp for professional legal consultation to help you secure your rightful maintenance promptly and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of filing a maintenance claim?

filing a maintenance typically ranges between 25–50% of the husband’s salary if he is an employee or has a fixed income.
For self-employed individuals, the maintenance amount is determined in AED based on the average income, which is assessed through police investigations or tax and commercial records if the husband owns a business.

What is the time limit for filing a civil lawsuit in the UAE?

Civil lawsuits relating to rights and obligations under a contract or claims of damage must be filed within 15 years, according to Article 473 of the Civil Transactions Law, unless the law states otherwise.

What is the filing a maintenance schedule in Dubai?

In practice, child maintenance is typically:

• 20–30% of the father’s monthly income for one child.
• 30–50% for two children.
• May reach 60% or more for three or more children or when special expenses (education or medical treatment) apply.

How long does a maintenance case take?

After issuing the judgment, if the husband fails to pay, execution procedures may take 1–2 additional months, depending on his cooperation and the execution system followed.