LGBT rights in the United Arab Emirates
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Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the United Arab Emirates face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Homosexuality is illegal in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and under the federal criminal provisions, consensual same-sex sexual activity is punishable by up to the death penalty[7][8][9], up to 15 years in prison[10], fines, floggings, and deportation. Extra-marital sexual activity between persons of different sexes is also illegal. In both cases, prosecution will only be brought if a husband or male guardian of one of the participants makes a criminal complaint. The penalty is a minimum of six months imprisonment; no maximum penalty is prescribed but can add up to death, and the court has full discretion to impose any sentence in accordance with the country's constitution.
LGBT rights in United Arab Emirates | |
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Status | Illegal: Prosecution only on complaint of husband or (male) legal guardian[1][2] |
Penalty | zina: remote chance of death penalty[3][4][5], up to 15 years in prison[6], fines, floggings, deportation |
Gender identity | No |
Military | No |
Discrimination protections | None |
Family rights | |
Recognition of relationships | No recognition of same-sex relationships |
Adoption | No |
While there have been no known arrests or prosecutions for same-sex sexual activity in the UAE since at least 2015 (as of 2022[update]), with no upper limit to penalties codified, capital punishment is a possible outcome for participants. Any penalty imposed is suspended if the complainant withdraws the complaint or "forgives" the transgressor.[1][11][12]
Additionally, individuals have been prosecuted for related offences related to sexual and gender identity under public decency laws, for acts such as kissing in public, or for cross-dressing.[11][13]