08 November,2020 07:55 AM IST | Abu Dhabi | Agencies
This image has been used for representational purposes only
The United Arab Emirates announced on Saturday a major overhaul of the country's Islamic personal laws, allowing unmarried couples to cohabitate, loosening alcohol restrictions and criminalising " honour killings."
The broadening of personal freedoms reflects the changing profile of a country that has sought to bill itself as a Westernised destination for tourists, fortune-seekers and businesses despite its Islamic legal code.
The reforms aim to boost the country's economic and social standing and " consolidate the UAE's principles of tolerance," state-run WAM news agency reported.
The move follows a historic US-brokered deal to normalise relations between the UAE and Israel, which is expected to bring an influx of Israeli tourists and investment. Another amendment allows for " cohabitation of unmarried couples" . Attempted suicide would also be decriminalised, the report said.
ALSO READ
ICC exploring more options for hosting Champions Trophy 2025: Sources
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince to visit Mumbai on Sept 9 to take part in business forum
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince meets President Droupadi Murmu in Delhi
Abu Dhabi Crown Prince meets PM Narendra Modi in Delhi; to visit Mumbai tomorrow
Passengers of SpiceJet flight from Mumbai to Dubai face major delays
Catch up on all the latest Crime, National, International and Hatke news here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates.
Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever