Criminal Law

If you are arrested in Dubai, remain calm and cooperate with the police, but do not make any statements or sign any documents without first consulting a lawyer. You have the right to legal representation, and you should request to contact a criminal lawyer immediately. Inform a family member or your embassy of your situation. Do not resist arrest, as this can lead to additional charges.

Under UAE law, you have the right to be informed of the reasons for your arrest, the right to legal representation, and the right to contact your embassy if you are a foreign national. You should not be subjected to torture or inhumane treatment. However, the UAE legal system differs from Western systems, and the right to remain silent is not as strongly protected. It is crucial to have a lawyer present during any questioning.

The UAE criminal justice system involves several stages: investigation by the police, review by the Public Prosecution, and trial in the criminal courts. If arrested, you may be held in police custody for up to 48 hours before being brought before the Public Prosecution, who can extend detention. Cases are then referred to court, where a judge (not a jury) determines guilt and sentencing. Appeals can be made to higher courts.

The UAE has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties. Possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs can result in a minimum of four years’ imprisonment, while trafficking can carry the death penalty. The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy, and traces of drugs in your system upon entry can be treated as possession. Prescription medications must be accompanied by proper documentation, as some common medications are controlled substances in the UAE

Bail is not commonly granted in the UAE criminal justice system in the same way as in Western countries. However, in some cases, particularly for less serious offences, the Public Prosecution or the court may release an accused person on their own recognizance, with a travel ban in place, or upon payment of a financial guarantee. For serious offences, detention pending trial is more common.

Criminal cases involve offences against the state and society, such as theft, assault, fraud, and drug offences. They are prosecuted by the Public Prosecution and can result in imprisonment, fines, or deportation. Civil cases involve disputes between private parties, such as contract disputes or personal injury claims, and result in monetary compensation or specific performance. Some matters, like bounced cheques, can have both criminal and civil aspects.

If you are convicted of a crime in the UAE as an expatriate, you may face imprisonment, fines, and deportation. For serious offences, deportation typically follows the completion of any prison sentence. A criminal conviction can also result in the cancellation of your residency visa and a ban on re-entering the UAE. It is essential to have experienced legal representation to navigate the system and minimise the consequences.

Yes, the UAE has specialised courts for different matters. Criminal cases are heard in the Criminal Courts, which have divisions for misdemeanors and felonies. There are also specialised courts for certain matters, such as the Traffic Court and the Drugs Court. Additionally, the DIFC and ADGM have their own court systems, primarily for civil and commercial matters within those free zones.

A criminal lawyer in Dubai provides legal representation and advice to individuals accused of crimes. They attend police stations during questioning, review evidence, prepare defence strategies, represent clients in court, negotiate with prosecutors, and file appeals if necessary. They ensure that the accused’s rights are protected throughout the legal process and work to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that is acquittal, reduced charges, or a lighter sentence.

Some criminal cases in the UAE can be resolved through settlement or reconciliation, particularly those involving personal rights such as assault, defamation, or bounced cheques. If the victim agrees to drop the complaint and a settlement is reached, the Public Prosecution or the court may dismiss the case or reduce the penalty. However, crimes against the state or public interest, such as drug offences or fraud against government entities, generally cannot be settled privately.