UAE Rules for Children Travelling Without Both Parents | E-Notary Dubai

What UAE immigration requires when a child travels with one parent or guardian. Documents needed and what happens if they are wrong.

1 October 2025· Updated Jan 2026

UAE Immigration Rules for Minors Travelling

UAE immigration authorities take child travel security seriously. When a child is not travelling with both parents together, immigration officers have the authority — and the obligation — to question travel arrangements and may prevent the child from boarding if documents are not in order.

→Child travelling with father only (mother not accompanying)

When Is a Child Travel Consent Required?

Bring the death certificate (translated and attested if in a foreign language). The surviving parent may still need a notarized declaration confirming sole custody and authority to authorize the child\'s travel.

→Child travelling with a grandparent, relative, or guardian

What Documents Are Required?

The parent with legal custody must provide a notarized consent letter if the other parent is travelling with the child. The custody order from court should also be carried.

→Child on a school trip without a parent

What if the Other Parent Is Deceased?

The child can be denied boarding. In serious cases the immigration officer may contact UAE police or child protection services. Get the consent letter notarized before travel — same-day service is available.

→Child with only one parent's surname on the passport

Frequently Asked Questions

If the parents are divorced, the travelling parent must provide: a certified copy of the divorce decree (attested if foreign); a certified copy of the custody order confirming which parent holds legal custody; if the non-custodial parent is required to give consent under the custody order, a notarized Child Travel POA from the non-custodial parent; and the child's valid passport and UAE residence visa (if applicable). UAE immigration authorities are strict — missing any document can result in the child being denied boarding.

If a minor arrives at UAE immigration or check-in with incomplete or missing travel documents, the child will be denied boarding or entry. For departures from the UAE: the airline's check-in staff and UAE immigration will check the documents — if the required POA or consent letter is missing, the child will not be allowed to board. For arrivals into the UAE: UAE immigration may detain the child until the matter is resolved with the relevant parent or guardian. Do not travel without confirming the exact documents required for your specific situation.