The United Arab Emirates’ recently enacted Civil Transactions Law has introduced nuanced provisions regarding financial autonomy for minors, drawing significant attention from legal experts and families alike. While much public discourse has centered on the reduction of the age of majority to 18, the legislation contains a more intricate mechanism for younger individuals aged 15 and above.
Contrary to some initial interpretations, the law does not establish automatic financial independence at age 15. Instead, it creates a carefully regulated judicial pathway through which minors may petition courts for limited authority to manage their assets. This represents a substantial shift from the previous threshold of 18 Hijri years, yet maintains robust protective safeguards.
Legal specialists emphasize that this provision constitutes a controlled exception rather than a blanket entitlement. Byron James, Partner at Expatriate Law, clarifies that “this creates a supervised pathway for early financial responsibility where it can be demonstrated to serve the minor’s best interests” rather than establishing independence at 15.
The judicial evaluation process will involve meticulous examination of multiple factors including the minor’s demonstrated maturity, comprehension of financial matters, and the specific nature and value of the assets in question. Courts are expected to adopt a case-by-case approach, granting tailored authorizations that may be limited in scope, duration, or subject matter.
According to Ahmed Al Mazrouei, a UAE-based civil lawyer, courts will require compelling justification for approval. “Judges will seek genuine necessity—such as inherited assets requiring active management, business interests, or structured investments that cannot be practically handled through a guardian alone,” he explained. The central consideration will be whether granting management authority better serves the minor’s interests than existing arrangements.
Parental roles undergo transformation rather than elimination under this framework. As James notes, “Parents or guardians are not displaced entirely, but their role becomes supervisory rather than controlling.” The judiciary retains ongoing oversight authority, enabling revocation or restriction of permissions if they cease to benefit the minor.
Sara Al Hammadi, another legal expert, characterizes the reform as a response to practical circumstances rather than broad empowerment. “This mechanism accommodates specific situations where minors inherit assets, hold shares in family enterprises, or benefit from investment structures,” she stated. The system provides flexibility while maintaining protective measures, ensuring decisions align with long-term financial wellbeing rather than short-term considerations.
The legislation incorporates multiple safeguards to prevent misuse, familial pressure, or premature financial decision-making, particularly concerning high-value or complex assets. Courts will likely impose conditions such as reporting requirements and transaction limitations, ensuring that the minor’s economic security remains protected throughout the process.