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Top 10 Family Lawyers in Dubai for all your family legal disputes| 2025
Navigating family-related legal issues in Dubai can be daunting—especially for expats unfamiliar with the UAE’s dual legal system that distinguishes between Sharia and non-Sharia laws. From divorce and child custody to inheritance and marriage contracts, choosing the right family lawyer is essential for a smooth, compliant, and fair outcome. Dubai’s legal landscape includes both UAE Personal Status Law and options like DIFC Wills for non-Muslims, adding to the complexity. That’s why we’ve curated this trusted list of the Top 10 Family Lawyers in Dubai, based on reputation, expertise, client satisfaction, and proven results. Whether you’re going through a separation, planning a will, or navigating a custody dispute, the proper legal guidance can make all the difference.
Top family lawyers in Dubai
Looking for the top family lawyers in Dubai? Get expert legal support for divorce, custody, inheritance, and wills. These highly rated legal professionals offer expat-friendly services with multilingual support and deep knowledge of both UAE Personal Status Law and international family law frameworks.
Best family lawyer in Dubai
Finding the best family lawyer in Dubai is crucial when dealing with sensitive personal matters. Whether you’re an expat or a resident, experienced legal professionals can guide you through complex divorce, custody, or succession issues with clarity, confidentiality, and client-first strategies that align with UAE law.
Divorce lawyer Dubai
A skilled divorce lawyer in Dubai helps clients navigate the legal, emotional, and financial challenges of separation. Whether the divorce is contested or amicable, experienced attorneys ensure fair settlements, protect parental rights, and handle UAE court proceedings with the utmost professionalism and discretion—especially for expat families.
Child custody lawyer Dubai
A trusted child custody lawyer in Dubai advocates for your child’s well-being while working within UAE laws. Whether you’re seeking sole or shared custody, experienced lawyers help parents reach fair, enforceable agreements while respecting cultural sensitivities, recent custody law reforms, and international legal considerations.
Inheritance lawyer in UAE
An inheritance lawyer in the UAE assists in drafting wills, managing estate distribution, and resolving disputes. These legal experts guide both Muslims and non-Muslims through Sharia-based and civil inheritance laws, ensuring your assets are protected and transferred according to your wishes, especially when dealing with complex family dynamics.
Expat family law Dubai
Expat family law in Dubai offers legal solutions tailored for non-Muslim residents. From foreign law application in divorce to child custody and DIFC wills, specialised lawyers help expats resolve family disputes fairly while respecting UAE regulations and international legal standards. Multilingual support is typically available for global clients.
Family law firm Dubai
A reputable family law firm in Dubai provides comprehensive legal services in divorce, custody, inheritance, and guardianship. These firms combine local UAE legal knowledge with international expertise, offering personalised support to expats and residents dealing with emotionally sensitive and legally complex family matters.
DIFC wills and family lawyers
DIFC wills and family lawyers in Dubai offer non-Muslim residents a secure way to protect their assets. These legal professionals help draft and register wills under the DIFC Wills Service Centre—ensuring assets, guardianship, and succession plans are legally enforceable without applying Sharia-based inheritance rules.
Legal advice for divorce in Dubai
Seeking legal advice for divorce in Dubai? A qualified family lawyer can explain your rights, outline options under UAE or foreign law, and guide you through court processes. Expert advice ensures better outcomes in child custody, asset division, and long-term settlement agreements for both residents and expats.
✅ How We Selected the Top 10 Family Lawyers in Dubai
Choosing the top family lawyers in Dubai involved a careful review of multiple criteria to ensure only the most qualified, experienced, and client-focused professionals made this list. We prioritised firms and individual lawyers with strong expertise in family law services, particularly those dealing with divorce cases, child custody disputes, inheritance law in the UAE, and DIFC Wills for non-Muslim residents.
We also factored in:
- Google and Justia client reviews
- Language accessibility (mainly for English-speaking lawyers)
- Experience with expat family law in Dubai
- Reputation in both the UAE and international legal circles
- Legal advisory credentials from Dubai Courts and DIFC Courts
Whether you’re looking for the best family lawyer in Dubai or legal advice for divorce, this guide will help you connect with the right legal partner.
✅ List of Top 10 Family Lawyers
1. Chancery Chambers – Trusted Legal Advocates for Expats & Families
Specialisation: Family law, DIFC Wills, divorce, inheritance, child custody
Overview:
Chancery Chambers is a boutique law firm in Dubai known for its international-standard family law services. With a strong focus on expat family law in Dubai, the firm offers expert guidance in divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, and DIFC Wills registration for non-Muslims. Their lawyers are qualified in multiple jurisdictions and provide services in English, Arabic, and French—making them a top choice for multinational clients.
Chancery Chambers’ family lawyers are adept at handling complex cross-border legal issues, including high-net-worth divorces, prenuptial agreements, and guardianship planning. The firm is registered with the DIFC Wills Service Centre and recognised for delivering practical legal advice tailored to Dubai’s evolving legal framework.
Languages Spoken: English, Arabic, French
Location: 1 Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact: +971 4 327 5463 or via the firm website https://chancerychambers.net/
2. Expatriate Law – Specialist Firm for High Net Worth & International Clients
Specialisation: High net worth divorce, child custody, international relocation, financial remedy cases
Lead Practitioner: Byron James – Partner & Head of UAE Family Team
Languages: English (UK-qualified), local UAE court liaison
Overview:
Expatriate Law is consistently ranked in Band 1 by Chambers & Partners for Family/Matrimonial: High Net Worth in the United Arab Emirates. Led by Byron James, the team specialises in expat family law in Dubai, handling complex divorce cases, cross-border child custody disputes, and relocation matters with finesse.
Recognised in Legal 500 and Spears 500 Family Law Index, Byron is widely praised for sharp legal insight and deep familiarity with evolving UAE family law statutes.
Clients appreciate Expatriate Law for its tailored approach—particularly for expats seeking clarity on rule of law choices, DIFC Wills integration, and fair financial settlements under UAE courts.
Contact: via firm website https://expatriatelaw.com/
3. Diana Hamade Attorneys at Law – Boutique Family Law Experts (DIFC & Sharia Compliant)
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody, succession, maintenance, DIFC wills, Sharia and civil matters
Founder: Diana Hamade’ AlGhurair – first Middle East-based female Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers and licensed before all UAE courts (including Dubai Courts and DIFC Courts)
Overview:
Diana Hamade Attorneys at Law is a highly regarded boutique firm known for its deep expertise in both Sharia-based and expatriate family law in the UAE. Led by Diana Hamade’, they represent clients in divorce, inheritance succession, guardianship, and maintenance cases. The firm strikes a strong balance between sensitivity to cultural nuance and international best practices, making it an ideal choice for both Muslim and non-Muslim clients living in Dubai. Diana routinely appears before Dubai Courts and the DIFC Courts, offering tailored legal strategies across personal status and DIFC Registration systems.
Languages: English, Arabic
Location: DIFC & Mirdif, Dubai
Contact: via firm website https://dianahamadelaw.ae/
4. Dr Hassan Mohsen Elhais – High Net Worth Family Law Specialist
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody (including international child abduction), financial remedies & maintenance for high asset expat cases
Credentials: UAE-qualified family lawyer; ranked Band 1 by Chambers & Partners in Family/Matrimonial: High Net Worth – UAE.
Overview:
Dr Hassan Elhais is widely recognised for his expertise in complex family law matters involving high-net-worth clients. He is notable for handling sensitive child custody disputes, including international abduction cases under Hague Convention provisions, along with contested divorces and financial settlement negotiations.
Languages Spoken: English, Arabic
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact: via firm website https://www.professionallawyer.me/
5. HHS Lawyers & Legal Consultants – Broad-Spectrum Family & Inheritance Disputes
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody, inheritance disputes, mediation, financial support cases.
Firm Profile: HHS Lawyers is rated among the top family law practices in Dubai, offering services that span inheritance planning, divorce representation, and child custody matters. Their practice combines legal expertise with compassionate client support.
Overview:
Known for handling complex family and inheritance cases, HHS Lawyers serve both local clients and expat residents seeking tailored legal solutions. They’re recognised for their strong subject matter knowledge and effective litigation and mediation skills. Particularly recommended for expats, HHS lawyers facilitate cases involving divorce lawyers in Dubai, child custody lawyers in Dubai, inheritance lawyers in the UAE, and other family law services in Dubai.
Languages: English, Arabic
Location: Dubai (Business Bay / central district)
Contact: via firm website https://hhslawyers.com/
6. James Berry & Associates – UK & UAE Family Law Expertise for Expats
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody, cross-border family law, DIFC wills & succession planning
Firm Overview:
James Berry & Associates is a well-established independent law firm on Sheikh Zayed Road, affiliated with the Mackrell International network. They expertly handle both UAE and English family law matters, making them a strong pick for expats who want legal advice for divorce in Dubai under both jurisdictions.
What Sets Them Apart:
Their dual-licensed team offers representation in UAE courts while advising on applicable foreign family law—beneficial for cases involving expat family law in Dubai, especially where UK or European legal norms may apply. Services extend to drafting DIFC wills, navigating inheritance law in the UAE, and representing clientele in child custody disputes in Dubai.
Languages: English, Arabic
Location: API World Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Contact: via firm website https://jamesberrylaw.com/
7. Fotis International Law Firm – Diverse & Culturally Aware Family Law Counsel
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody, inheritance, mediation, DIFC wills, Sharia-compliant family matters
Lead Team: Multinational team of UAE-licensed family law practitioners, including specialists from India, Europe, and the Middle East
Overview:
Fotis International Law Firm brings together lawyers from diverse cultural and legal backgrounds to deliver family law services tailored to both expatriates and UAE residents. The firm handles divorce proceedings, child custody cases, inheritance disputes, inheritance planning via DIFC wills, and prenuptial agreements. Fotis lawyers are notable for offering family law services in Dubai that factor in both Sharia and civil frameworks—ideal for multicultural clients navigating expat family law in Dubai. The firm is consistently featured in top-tier listings such as the Best Family Law Firms guides and is praised for its client-sensitive, multilingual approach.
Languages: English, Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Russian
Location: Business Bay, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Contact: via firm website https://fotislaw.com/
8. ProConsult Advocates & Legal Consultants – Reliable, Affordable Family Law Support
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody, maintenance/support, inheritance and wills, prenuptial agreements
Lead Partner: Tony Maalouli – Managing Partner with 28+ years of experience, leading family and divorce law services in Dubai
Overview:
ProConsult Advocates & Legal Consultants is a well-established full-service law firm based in Business Bay. Known for a high success rate (90% in litigation and arbitration), they deliver effective legal representation in divorce lawyer Dubai, child custody, and inheritance planning for both Muslims and non-Muslims. The team handles sensitive family law services in Dubai, from mediation and litigation of marital disputes to drafting DIFC wills and prenuptial agreements. Their multilingual lawyers offer transparent fee structures, making them a preferred choice for expats seeking trustworthy legal help.
Languages: English, Arabic
Location: Burj Khalifa Blvd, Business Bay, Dubai
Contact: via firm website https://uaeahead.com/
9. Awatif Mohammed | Al Rowaad Advocates & Legal Consultants – Client-Focused Family Law Support
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody, inheritance disputes, maintenance, mediation, DIFC wills
Lead Partner: Founding team of UAE-qualified advocates experienced in personal status law and expat family law matters
Overview:
Al Rowaad Advocates & Legal Consultants is frequently listed among Dubai’s reputable choices for family law cases, praised for its well-rounded services tailored to both residents and expatriates. Clients turn to them for effective divorce lawyer Dubai, child custody support, and inheritance law in UAE disputes, including drafting and registration of DIFC wills for non-Muslim residents. The firm is highlighted in rankings such as Legal 500 and Clutch, recognised for its client-centred approach and comprehensive coverage of family law services in Dubai.
Their multilingual legal team is known for clear communication—and reliable representation in mediation and court. Favorably reviewed for compassion and transparency, Al Rowaad serves as a trusted firm for expats navigating emotional and financial family transitions in Dubai.
Languages: English, Arabic
Location: Dubai, UAE
Contact: via firm website https://www.alrowaad.ae/
10. Hadef & Partners – Prominent UAE Firm with Family & Succession Law Expertise
Specialisation: Divorce, child custody (including cross-border), inheritance planning, wills & estates, family business succession
Lead Team: Senior legal team including Managing Partner Sadiq Jafar and Partner Ahmad Sergieh, both experienced in family wealth structuring, succession planning, and high-net-worth divorce cases
Overview:
Hadef & Partners is a well-established UAE law firm with over 40 years of experience and more than 100 lawyers across offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Recognised in Legal 500 and Chambers Global, their practice includes nuanced family law services tailored to both expatriate and local clients, especially for high-asset matters. They guide clients through inheritance law in the UAE, DIFC wills, contested divorces, and cross-border child custody disputes. Ahmad Sergieh is particularly known for advising on family wealth succession planning and structuring for both Emirati and foreign clients.
Their multilingual team (English, Arabic, French, plus others) ensures culturally aware and legally sound counsel—making them a top choice for expats seeking strategic and comprehensive family law support in Dubai and across the UAE
Languages: English, Arabic, French (and other languages spoken by international clients)
Location: Emaar Square
Contact: via firm website https://hadefpartners.com/
Key Legal Services Offered by Family Lawyers in Dubai
Family lawyers in Dubai offer a broad spectrum of legal services tailored to both Muslim and non-Muslim clients. These services address sensitive personal matters while ensuring compliance with UAE laws and international standards—particularly important for expat families navigating cultural and legal differences.
Key services include:
- Divorce & Separation: Legal representation in both contested and uncontested divorce cases under UAE Personal Status Law or applicable foreign laws for expats.
- Child Custody & Visitation: Handling custody disputes, guardianship rights, and travel restrictions—often under joint custody guidelines introduced in recent legal reforms.
- Inheritance & Wills: Drafting and registering wills through the DIFC Wills Service Centre or UAE notary, especially for non-Muslim clients seeking asset protection.
- Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements: Creating legally binding contracts to protect individual assets and define marital responsibilities.
- Mediation & Family Settlements: Offering out-of-court dispute resolution for amicable divorce and parenting plans.
- Domestic Abuse & Protection Orders: Securing restraining orders and filing domestic violence cases in civil or criminal courts.
Family law firms in Dubai also assist with translations, cross-border enforcement, and embassy-coordinated legal compliance.
⚖️ Why Hiring a Family Lawyer is Important in Dubai
The UAE’s legal framework is a complex mix of Sharia law, civil codes, and expat-specific provisions—making it crucial to work with a qualified family lawyer when dealing with personal matters like divorce, custody, or inheritance. Laws often differ for Muslims and non-Muslims, and recent reforms have introduced distinct pathways for expats, including the option to apply foreign laws in certain family disputes.
A skilled family lawyer in Dubai ensures the most favourable legal system handles your case—be it UAE Personal Status Law, civil jurisdiction, or DIFC Courts. This is especially critical when dealing with international custody battles, cross-border marriages, or complex estate planning.
From navigating court procedures to drafting legally recognised documents like DIFC wills, a family lawyer protects your rights, reduces emotional strain, and ensures your case adheres to both local laws and global standards.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions on Hiring Family Lawyers in Dubai
1. How much does it cost to hire a family lawyer in Dubai?
Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of the case. For standard divorce cases, fees may start from AED 3,000 and can go up to AED 25,000+ for contested matters. Some firms offer fixed-fee packages for wills or custody agreements.
2. Can expats apply their home country laws in family disputes?
Yes, non-Muslim expats can request the application of their national laws in matters like divorce, inheritance, and custody—especially in DIFC Courts or if properly documented in legal filings.
3. How is child custody decided in Dubai?
Under UAE law, courts prioritise the child’s best interests. Shared custody has become more common after recent legal updates, but judges evaluate factors such as age, parental behaviour, and financial stability.
4. Is a DIFC Will necessary for expats?
A DIFC Will is highly recommended for non-Muslims with assets in the UAE. It provides legal certainty and avoids the automatic application of Sharia succession rules.
5. How long does a divorce take in Dubai?
The timeline depends on whether the case is contested or amicable. Uncontested divorces may conclude in 2–4 months, while complex disputes can take longer.
6. Can I hire a female family lawyer in Dubai?
Yes, many top firms, including Chancery Chambers Dubai and Diana Hamade Attorneys, have highly experienced female family lawyers fluent in English and Arabic.
7. Do family lawyers in Dubai handle international cases?
Yes, leading firms specialise in cross-border disputes, including international child custody, foreign divorce recognition, and estate planning for expats with global assets.
�� Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Whether you’re navigating a divorce, planning a will, or resolving custody matters, hiring a trusted family lawyer in Dubai is vital. The proper legal guidance ensures compliance with UAE laws while protecting your rights—especially for expat families dealing with cross-border complexities.
If you’re unsure where to start, Chancery Chambers Dubai is a highly recommended firm offering compassionate, expert representation tailored to both Muslim and non-Muslim clients.
✅ Need Trusted Legal Help? Talk to Chancery Chambers Dubai Today.
When it comes to sensitive family matters, you deserve a legal team that combines expertise with empathy.
Chancery Chambers Dubai is a top-rated family law firm trusted by expats and residents for divorce, custody, inheritance, and DIFC wills.
�� Schedule your confidential consultation today with the specialists at Chancery Chambers and protect your family’s future with confidence.
☎️ + +971 4 327 5463
Located at 1Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Visit https://chancerychambers.net/ for more information.
