Cohabitation Laws in Dubai: What You Need to Know Before Living Together

Thinking of moving in with your partner and buying a place together in Dubai? You're not alone. More and more couples, both married and unmarried, are exploring cohabitation as they plan their future in the UAE. And with Dubai's fast-growing real estate market, it's no surprise that many are considering buying a home together as well.

But while the idea sounds exciting, it's important to understand how cohabitation works legally in the UAE and what it means if you're planning to share a home, whether rented or owned.

What Is Cohabitation and Why Does It Matter in Dubai?

Cohabitation simply means living together without being legally married. For couples in many countries, it's a normal step in a relationship. But in Dubai, cohabitation used to be a criminal offense until very recently.

If you're thinking about:

• Sharing a rented apartment
• Buying a home together
• Living as an unmarried couple

Then understanding cohabitation laws is key to avoid legal trouble and to protect your investment.

Are Unmarried Couples Allowed to Live Together in Dubai?

The short answer: Yes, but with some rules.

In 2020, the UAE introduced a major legal reform that decriminalized cohabitation for unmarried, opposite-sex couples. This change was part of a broader effort to modernize laws and make the country more inclusive, especially for expats.

Before 2020, living together without marriage could lead to arrest, fines, or even deportation. But today, the law allows:

• Unmarried men and women to live together legally
• Adults over 18 to share a home with consent from all parties

However, there are a few exceptions and conditions to keep in mind.

Key Points of the New Cohabitation Law

1. You must both be over 18.
2. You must not be married to someone else. Adultery remains a criminal offense.
3. Same-sex couples are not protected under this law. Same-sex relationships are still illegal under UAE federal law.
4. Discretion is still encouraged. Public displays of affection and inappropriate behavior in public are frowned upon.

The law is now much more tolerant, but it's still important to respect cultural norms.

What If You Want to Buy a Home Together?

Buying property in Dubai as a couple, married or unmarried, is legal and possible in designated freehold areas. Here's what to consider:

1. You Don't Need to Be Married

UAE property laws don't require buyers to be married. You can co-purchase as:

• Joint owners with equal shares
• Tenants-in-common with defined ownership percentages

2. Choose the Right Ownership Structure

There are two main ways to register property:

• Joint Tenancy: Equal ownership and automatic transfer if one person passes away.
• Tenancy in Common: Ownership is divided based on percentage. You can leave your share to anyone in your will.

Talk to a property lawyer to understand what's best for your situation.

3. Financing and Mortgages

If you're applying for a mortgage together:

• Both names must appear on the application.
• Banks will assess your combined income and credit scores.
• It's often easier if you're both UAE residents, but some banks accept expats with valid income and ID documentation.

At Holo our mortgage brokers will help you solve all your doubts about financing and give you the best rates. 

Do You Need a Cohabitation Agreement?

Absolutely. Living together and buying property is a major financial commitment. A cohabitation agreement helps avoid confusion and disputes later on.

What to Include in a Cohabitation Agreement:

• Ownership share of the home
• How expenses will be split (mortgage, utilities, maintenance)
• What happens if you break up (who stays, buyout options)
• Exit plan in case one partner wants to sell

It's not required by law, but having one is highly recommended, especially if you're investing a large amount of money into a property together. 

Legal Risks: Are There Any?

While cohabitation is legal, there are still risks if:

• You're living with someone who is married to someone else
• You're involved in a same-sex relationship
• Neighbors file complaints about your living arrangements or behavior

These situations can still attract attention from authorities. If you're ever unsure, seek legal advice from a local law firm specializing in UAE family law.

What If You Have Children as an Unmarried Couple?

Thanks to recent updates in UAE law, it is now legal to have and raise children outside of marriage, provided that:

• The father acknowledges the child
• Both parents sign the birth certificate
• You can provide financial support

This is a big step forward for parental rights and has made it easier for unmarried couples to build a life together in the UAE.

However, be sure to:

• Register your child's birth legally
• Apply for appropriate residency and documentation
• Keep up with any new updates to UAE family law

Conclusion

Living together in Dubai as an unmarried couple is now allowed, but it comes with responsibilities. From registering your rental properly to drafting agreements when buying a home, the key is to plan ahead and stay informed.

With the right approach, you can build a life and a home together while respecting the rules and culture of the UAE.

Whether you're just moving in together or already looking at villas and apartments, this new chapter can be both exciting and secure as long as you take the proper steps.