A Guide to Child Adoption in the UAE
Can expats adopt a child in the UAE?
Expatriate couples residing in the UAE who wish to adopt a child will need to consider adopting from either their home country or another country. The adoption process for expats can still be conducted from the UAE, however, they cannot adopt Emirati children. Should they decide to process the adoption internationally, the UAE will honor the child’s documents as long as they are able to present all documentation and have completed all legal requirements.
What are the steps to adopt a child in the UAE?
If you wish to process the adoption in the UAE, here are the steps that you need to follow:
- Complete the home study program with a qualified psychologist or adoption service counselor
- Gather and submit all required paperwork (must be certified and attested by relevant authorities)
- Reach out to an adoption facilitator (from the chosen country or home country of adoptive parents)
- Flying out to the country of adoption to meet the adoptive child
- Complete all the paperwork
- Apply for a visa and bring the child to UAE
While it is not always the case, the adoption process may be stressful for both the adoptive parents and the child. If you’re a first-time parent, visiting a mental health counselor may be beneficial for you. They may be able to give you guidance on how to establish a good first impression and build a connection with the child while the adoption is being processed.
Depending on the adoptive child, you may also book for mental health counseling services, especially if the child had any traumatic experiences.
If you are looking for an adoption services counselor to assist you with the adoption process in UAE, you may reach out to Human Relations Institute and Clinics, a psychotherapy clinic based in Dubai, UAE. They have been providing adoption counseling services in the UAE for more than 15 years – offering emotional and psychological support to prospective adoptive families while evaluating their level of preparedness and presenting them with necessary guidelines to help them through their adoption journey as successfully as possible.