Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia Bans Marriages Under the Age of 18

Saudi Arabia has officially set a minimum age for young men and women to marry.

The Ministry of Justice issued a circular to all Saudi Courts prohibiting the marriage of persons who are below the age of 18.

Justice Minister and chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council Shaikh Dr Walid Al Sampan said that cases involving persons below the age of 18 have to be referred to special courts to finalise procedures, in compliance with the Child Protection Law.

The provisions of the law make it necessary to ensure, before concluding marriage contracts, that males or females under 18 will not be harmed, local media reported.

M. AMEEN

Mohammed Ameen is an expatriate blogger who loves sharing his experiences of living and working in the Gulf countries.