Maria Scotland MCIArb acted for the father in SA v TA & others [2026] EWHC 756 (Fam), a complex and sensitive international children matter concerning proposed relocation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The case has been reported by LexisNexis.
The father applied to relocate his three children from England to live with him in Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about the mother’s parenting and relying in part on the children’s expressed wishes. The application was opposed by both the mother and the children’s Guardian.
Following a detailed welfare analysis, the High Court refused the father’s application for permanent relocation. The court emphasised the significant impact such a move would have on the children, including separation from their primary attachment figure, disruption to their education, and the loss of ongoing local authority support in England. The court also highlighted the ongoing parental conflict and its emotional impact on the children.
Notwithstanding the refusal of relocation, Maria successfully secured a meaningful enhancement of the father’s time with the children. The court ordered that the children should spend a substantial proportion of their school holidays with their father in Saudi Arabia, including extended summer holiday contact, subject to the provision of a £10,000 bond as a safeguard.
The court was assisted by expert evidence on Saudi Arabian law from Byron James, particularly in relation to enforcement and safeguarding considerations in a non-Hague Convention jurisdiction.
This case provides a further illustration of the court’s careful, holistic approach to international relocation applications, balancing the children’s welfare, their relationships with both parents, and the practical realities of cross-border arrangements.
Maria Scotland practices exclusively in family law with a specialism in high-end/ big money financial remedy applications and (private law) children work.
Maria is recognised in Spears' 500 Guide (2023 & 2024): as a Top Recommended Family Law Barrister within the exclusive guide. Maria is also an author at Spears', with her recent article on Divorcing in Dubai: Should wealthy Expats worry about new UAE family laws? can be accessed here. Maria is ranked in the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners in family law (including divorce & financial remedy). She is one of the leading family law juniors and is the joint head of the Family Team at 5SAH.
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