Dubai officials discuss ways to protect children in custody disputes

A plan to protect children who have been ordered into the custody of one parent following a divorce or separation was presented today by the Dubai Police chief.

Lt Gen Dahi Khalfan Tamim discussed the idea - which would involve coordination between the Dubai Public Prosecution, the human rights department, Dubai courts and the Community Development Authority - with other officials in the emirate.

Under the plan, social workers would be authorised to conduct unannounced home visits to ensure that "the children enjoy all their rights … and are in good physical and mental health" with their parent or custodian, and "continue to attend school", a statement from the Dubai Police said.

Officials are expected to decide on a final approach to the child protection initiative at a meeting on Wednesday.

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