The UAE Government has enacted a comprehensive new civil transactions law that modernizes the legal framework by simplifying provisions, unifying references, and eliminating overlaps with recent special laws. A key reform is the reduction of the age of majority from 21 lunar years to 18 Gregorian years, aligning with international standards and harmonizing civil, juvenile, and labor laws. The law also lowers the age at which minors can seek judicial authorization to manage assets from 18 Hijri years to 15 Gregorian years, supporting youth entrepreneurship. It enhances individual legal capacity and free will protections, introduces clearer rules for contracts—including pre-contractual negotiations and framework agreements—and updates provisions on proprietary rights, sale contracts, and corporate governance.

Judicially, the law broadens courts’ discretion to apply Islamic Sharia principles in the absence of explicit legislation, without being bound to a single school of thought, thus allowing more flexible and just rulings. It also introduces judicial assistance for those unable to express their will, strengthens protections against exploitation, and refines rules on disputed rights, insurance, and employment contracts. Overall, the law serves as the primary federal reference for legal acts and contracts, aiming to enhance legal certainty, support economic participation, and ensure justice in line with societal developments.