A woman in Sharjah approached the Family Guidance Department for counselling and to pursue a divorce following a dispute with her husband over their lifestyle and his refusal to go out, travel or take part in leisure activities.

Dr Radhia Hassan Al Raisi, Director of the Family Guidance Department at Sharjah Courts, discussed the case on Sharjah TV’s “A Case for Discussion” programme.

She said the woman was unhappy that her husband preferred to spend most of his time at home and had no interest in joining her on outings, leisure activities or trips. However, Al Raisi stressed that, based on the details provided, the man had several positive qualities. He was kind, generous, patient and calm, and had not behaved abusively or insulted his wife.

The Family Guidance Department director advised the woman not to allow their differing preferences over leisure activities and going out to become the sole deciding factor in whether to continue the marriage. She suggested that the woman could take part in some recreational activities with her children or other family members.

She said differences in personality and lifestyle between spouses were natural and should not necessarily lead to legal disputes or the breakdown of a marriage, particularly when there were no more serious issues such as mistreatment or harm within the relationship.

Under the UAE Personal Status Law, either spouse may seek separation if they can prove harm that makes the continuation of married life effectively impossible. A court may grant a divorce if the harm is established and reconciliation is not possible.

The report did not indicate that a divorce ruling had been issued in the case, which was presented as an example of matters handled by the Family Guidance Department.