The UAE will introduce a major update to its civil legal system from June 1, with a new law officially lowering the age of majority from 21 to 18.
The changes come under Federal Decree-Law No. 25 of 2025, which introduces updates across areas including legal capacity, contracts, guardianship and civil transactions.
Published in the Official Gazette in October 2025, the law is designed to strengthen individual legal rights while maintaining safeguards against exploitation and abuse.
What changes from June 1?
Under the new law, individuals in the UAE will gain full legal capacity at 18 years old instead of 21.
This means 18-year-olds will legally be able to:
- Manage financial and legal affairs independently
- Sign contracts and civil agreements
- Open and operate bank accounts
- Conduct commercial activities
New rules for minors managing assets
Another significant update could allow minors as young as 15 to manage inherited or personal assets with court approval.
However, this would still require strict judicial supervision and specific safeguards before approval is granted.
If implemented, the change would give younger individuals limited financial autonomy while keeping court oversight in place.
The update reflects broader legal and social shifts already taking place across the UAE. The country recently lowered the minimum driving age to 17, while commercial laws already allow individuals to engage in business activities from the age of 18.
Many banks in the UAE already allow 18-year-olds to independently open and manage accounts, while existing commercial laws permit them to engage in business activities.
The new legislation reflects how young adults today are taking on greater responsibilities earlier, whether through higher education, employment, entrepreneurship or managing their own financial affairs.
