UAE overhauling restrictive Islamic laws to emphasise ‘tolerance’

UAE overhauling restrictive Islamic laws to emphasise ‘tolerance’

The United Arab Emirates announced a massive overhaul of its restrictive Islamic laws, including allowing unmarried couples to cohabit, decriminalising drinking without a license and cancelling lenient penalties for perpetrators of so-called “honour killings”.The relaxation of the state's grip on personal freedoms reflects a seismic shift in the country which is aiming to reposition itself as a major international player and destination for tourists, investors and businessmen, after years of foreigners falling foul of its restrictive legislation.The reforms will also boost the country's economic and social standing and “consolidate the UAE's principles of tolerance”, state-run WAM news agency reported.It comes after Abu Dhabi signed a US-brokered deal to recognise and build diplomatic ties with Israel, which will likely bring a flood of new tourists and investment, as direct flights between