Do both spouses need to be in the UAE to file for divorce?

Not necessarily. UAE family courts can often hear a divorce even when one spouse is outside the country, provided the court has jurisdiction (commonly based on residence in the UAE) and the absent spouse is properly notified of the proceedings. The key requirement is that the other party is given proper notice and an opportunity to respond, which may be done through recognised service procedures, sometimes involving the courts or diplomatic channels if the spouse is abroad. The case still moves through the usual stages, including the family guidance/amicable settlement step. As a non-Muslim foreigner you may use the UAE's civil personal status framework with its no-fault civil divorce, or ask the court to apply your home-country law. Proceeding when one spouse is absent can affect timing and how the decree is later recognised in another country, so handling notification correctly matters. Because rules on jurisdiction and service are technical, get tailored advice and confirm the current procedure with the relevant court. You can compare verified UAE family lawyers on LEXAI who handle cross-border divorces.