UAE relaxes Islamic laws, Allows live-in relationship & alcohol consumption

Dubai : The United Arab Emirates, taking a historic decision on Saturday, has made major changes in Islamic personal law. Under these changes, couples without marriage will be allowed to live together. Apart from this, restrictions on alcohol have been relaxed and honor killing has been classified as a crime.

The move to change stringent Islamic laws is seen as an attempt by the emirate’s rulers to keep pace with the changing times. Along with these changes, another important announcement has been made in the US mediation under which efforts will be made to improve relations between the UAE and Israel. This would increase the inflow of Israeli tourists into the UAE and open the way for investment in the UAE.

Among the changes announced on Saturday, the rules have been relaxed mainly on alcohol. Now a person 21 years or above will not be fined for drinking, selling or possessing liquor. Earlier, people had to obtain licenses to buy, transport or keep liquor in their homes. Under the new rules, Muslims who were prohibited from drinking alcohol are also allowed to drink alcohol.

Apart from this, under another amendment, freedom to ‘live together without marriage couples’ has been given. It has long been a serious crime category in the UAE. Although in a city like Dubai, the administration used to be a little relaxed about foreigners staying in live-in, but there was a risk of punishment.

Changes made in the laws related to honor killing
The UAE government has also made major changes to the laws under which crimes such as honor killings were protected. Under the old law, a man survived after attacking a female relative only if he proved that the woman was playing with respect to the family.