Abortion law in the UAE is federal — the same legal framework applies in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman as in Dubai. What differs is the health authority that licenses facilities and the directories you use to verify them. This page explains which regulator covers each emirate and how to check a facility or doctor through official sources.
Key facts at a glance
- The UAE’s abortion rules are set at the federal level (Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2024): permitted only in cases defined by law, pregnancy not exceeding 120 days, through a health facility authorised by the competent authority, with committee approval and written consent. (Sources: UAE Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2024 via uaelegislation.gov.ae; site law page)
- In Abu Dhabi (and Al Ain), healthcare is regulated by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; verify doctors and facilities through DoH lists and tools (www.doh.gov.ae). (Source: DoH Abu Dhabi)
- In Sharjah, Ajman and the other northern emirates, healthcare is regulated by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP); verify through MOHAP directories (mohap.gov.ae). (Source: MOHAP)
- Non-citizens must hold a valid UAE residence permit for at least one year before the request date. (Source: Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2024)
Last updated: October 2026. General information only — not medical or legal advice. Verify current rules through official sources and licensed professionals.
Abu Dhabi
Healthcare facilities and professionals in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain are licensed by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH). To find an authorised facility: 1. Search the DoH facility and professional lists at www.doh.gov.ae. 2. Ask the facility directly whether it is authorised for the relevant service and how the formal assessment process works. 3. Read the federal law summary on this site’s law page to understand the statutory conditions that apply everywhere in the UAE.
Sharjah
Sharjah’s healthcare facilities and professionals fall under the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP). Verify any clinic, hospital or doctor through the MOHAP professional and facility directories at mohap.gov.ae, matching the full facility and professional names exactly.
Ajman (and the other northern emirates)
The same applies in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah: MOHAP is the competent health authority. Use the MOHAP directories (mohap.gov.ae) and then confirm which regulator applies for the specific facility you are considering.
What the law requires in every emirate
The federal framework (Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2024) sets conditions that apply in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman equally:
- Abortion is permitted only in cases defined by law — it is not available on demand.
- The pregnancy must not exceed 120 days at the time of the abortion.
- The procedure must go through a health facility authorised by the competent health authority.
- The formal approval pathway involves a committee, documentation and written consent from the pregnant woman.
- Prescription medicines must be assessed and supplied through licensed professionals, pharmacies or authorised facilities.
Full detail with the official source: UAE abortion law.
Before you proceed
- Verify the facility and the doctor through the correct directory (DoH for Abu Dhabi/Al Ain, MOHAP for Sharjah/Ajman).
- Never rely on an online pill seller: unlicensed online medicine sales are unlawful, counterfeit products are common, and a familiar brand name proves nothing.
- Do not send ID documents or medical records to unverified websites or messaging accounts.
- Severe or worsening symptoms need urgent in-person care — call UAE ambulance services on 998 or go to the nearest emergency department.
FAQ
Is the abortion law different in Abu Dhabi than in Dubai?
No. The rules are federal, so the same statutory conditions apply. The difference is practical: Abu Dhabi care is licensed through DoH, while Dubai is licensed through DHA.
Can I verify a Sharjah or Ajman clinic online?
Yes — use the MOHAP directories at mohap.gov.ae to check the facility and the treating professional by their full registered names.
Does the one-year residency rule apply in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah too?
Yes. The residency condition in Cabinet Resolution No. 44 of 2024 applies to non-citizens across all emirates; confirm how it applies to your case through an authorised facility or a qualified UAE legal professional.
Does this website sell abortion pills or arrange appointments in these emirates?
No. This website is informational only. It does not sell, ship or supply medicine and cannot book treatment — care must go through a licensed facility.