How do British expats get divorced while living in the UAE?

British expats living in the UAE generally have a choice: divorce through the UAE courts, or pursue divorce in the UK if the English courts have jurisdiction. In the UAE, as non-Muslim foreigners you can ask the court to apply English personal status law to your divorce, or use the UAE's civil personal status framework, which provides a no-fault civil divorce and can address custody, maintenance, and assets under civil principles. Cases are heard in the onshore courts, such as Dubai Courts or the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court, not DIFC or ADGM. The right forum depends on factors like where assets and children are, speed, cost, and how each country will recognise the outcome; a UAE decree may need attestation and recognition steps to take effect in the UK. Because jurisdiction and applicable-law choices significantly affect financial and custody outcomes, it is worth taking advice on both sides before filing. Confirm UAE procedure with the relevant court. You can compare verified UAE family lawyers on LEXAI, and you may also wish to consult a solicitor qualified in England and Wales.