My family moved into a complex on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. We own a dog and we focused our search on buildings that allowed us to keep our dog. Until recently dogs and pets in general were allowed in the building, but the management company is apparently moving toward a no pet policy and put up signs saying so. In the past 10 days, the management company contacted us several times to complain that the dog’s barking is bothering the occupants of a flat across the hall. The same occupants claimed they were bothered by the dog walking in the hallway and by the smell of dog food. They are trying to build a case against us to make us leave. The dog rarely barks, we go to bed at about 10pm every night and the dog sleeps close to us and stays quiet all night. We keep him away from our front door and there is always someone in the flat, so he is not left unattended. The dog is not a nuisance. An addendum to our contract states that prior approval from the flat’s owner regarding pets is not required, which implies that pets are not prohibited. Our intention is to resolve this matter amicably but it seems the feeling is not mutual. I plan to contact a lawyer because I feel harassed.
You will have to review in detail the terms of your tenancy contract. If it mentions that the tenant has right to keep pets in the property then the landlord has no right to change the terms of contract. If it is not mentioned in the contract, then the landlord has the right to impose a “no pet policy” if they so desire. If you feel you have been disrespected, either physically or verbally, you are able to file a case with police.
I have three sisters who are all above the age of 21. The oldest one is married and the other two single. All are Emirati. My Emirati father has just returned to the UAE after seven years. Does he have the right to custody over my sisters? Or can they claim their independence from him? Is there any way I could get a restraining order against him?
A father is the legal guardian for his children until they turn 21 but beyond that age you and your sisters are free to do as you please as you are adults and he has no custody right over you. A restraining order can be issued against anyone, if it is merited, so you would need to present your case to the police. With regard to personal matters between families, I would suggest you contact the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) for advice.
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