The UAE Government revealed on Friday changes to the Crimes and Penalties Law, introducing harsher penalties for sexual assault or consensual activities with minors.
Individuals aged 18 or older engaging in sexual activities with a female or same-sex partner under 18 will face imprisonment of at least ten years and a minimum fine of Dh100,000, regardless of claimed consent.
Another amendment specifies that consent is invalid unless the victim is at least 16 years old. Anyone under 18 involved in consensual sexual acts will be governed by the Juvenile Delinquents and Juvenile at Risk of Delinquency Law, regardless of the offender’s gender or the gender of the other party.
