Dubai sets up specialised division for child protection

Move intended to support decision-making and reduce chances of further harm to children

The decision is intended to help safeguard children's rights. Wam

Dubai Courts on Monday established a specialised division for registering child protection cases.

The division will focus on children under the age of 18 who are involved in legal cases or have had court orders issued against them or their families based on submitted petitions.

The move, which seeks to ensure the safeguarding of children’s rights while ensuring their well-being, will see the division as a central entity following up on cases of children exposed to neglect, violence or deprivation of basic rights.

It is expected to enhance the co-ordination between Dubai Courts and partner entities while increasing the efficiency of the response to sensitive cases, state news agency Wam reported.

Dubai’s judicial system attaches the utmost importance to protecting children's rights, Mohammed Al Obaidli, executive director of the litigation management sector at Dubai Courts, said.

He added that the division will support decision-making and the continuous development of policies and procedures related to child protection, while reducing the likelihood of further harm resulting from delayed judicial procedures.