Ask Gulf News: Can parents ask their children for monthly maintenance in the UAE?

I am an old man of 70 years residing in Dubai. I am no longer able to work and my son, who is employed in Dubai and earns a substantial salary, has refused to provide me with monthly maintenance. Can I legally take him to court to compel him to pay?

According to Article 107 of the Personal Status Law in the UAE, it is the responsibility of a solvent child to support their parents if the parent does not have sufficient assets to meet their own needs. If the parent's assets are insufficient, solvent children are obligated to provide the necessary support.

Article 109 further clarifies that if the child's income does not cover their own expenses as well as the needs of their spouse and children, they must include their entitled parents in their household. The court in Dubai has the authority to adjudicate the case and determine the extent of the son's obligation based on the evidence presented, considering factors such as your basic needs for food, clothing, housing, and medical treatment, as well as the financial well-being of both parties involved at the time.