Is Abortion Legal in Dubai? Quick Facts

If you’re wondering whether you can end a pregnancy in Dubai, the short answer is: it’s heavily restricted. The United Arab Emirates treats abortion as a criminal act unless specific medical or legal exceptions apply. Breaking the rule can lead to fines, imprisonment, or both, so it’s vital to know the exact limits before you act.

When Does the Law Allow an Abort?

UAE law permits termination only in a few narrow cases. First, if the mother’s life is in genuine danger, a licensed doctor may perform the procedure after getting approval from the hospital’s ethics committee. Second, severe fetal abnormalities that would cause the baby to die shortly after birth can also be considered, but this requires a court order and a panel of specialists. Third, abortions that result from rape or incest are sometimes allowed, but again a legal sanction is needed before any medical steps are taken.

In all other situations—whether the pregnancy is unwanted, the mother is too young, or she simply wants to delay motherhood—the law says “no.” There is no gestational limit that makes it automatically legal; the permission process is the same regardless of weeks pregnant.

How to Get a Legal Termination in Dubai

If you think you qualify for an exception, the first move is to see a qualified obstetrician or a family doctor. They will assess your health, run any necessary tests, and write a medical report. The report then goes to a hospital ethics committee, which decides whether the case meets the legal criteria.

Should the committee give the green light, the doctor must still apply for a court order. The court reviews the medical documents and, if convinced, issues a permit that allows the procedure to be carried out in a licensed clinic or hospital. Only after this permit is in hand can the abortion legally happen.

Trying to get an illegal abortion—through unlicensed providers or online services—carries huge risks. Aside from legal trouble, you expose yourself to unsafe medical practices, infections, and potential long‑term health issues. The safest route is always to follow the official channels, even if they feel slow or cumbersome.

For expatriates or tourists, the process is the same, but language barriers can make it harder. Many hospitals have English‑speaking staff who can guide you through the paperwork. If you’re unsure where to start, contact your embassy’s health services department; they often have a list of approved clinics.

In summary, abortion in Dubai is not a free‑choice option. It’s limited to life‑threatening situations, severe fetal defects, or cases involving assault, and each requires medical and legal approval. Understanding these steps can save you from unwanted legal trouble and protect your health.