Criminal Law in the UAE: An Informational Guide
Below is an overview, or a guide, containing general information regarding fundamental issues connected with the criminal justice system in the United Arab Emirates, ranging from rights following an arrest, extradition issues, Interpol Red Notices, and standard crimes.
The UAE has an organized legal framework to address criminal cases that involve law enforcement agencies, the public prosecution, and the courts. It is prudent to understand the criminal legal process and the rights that individuals have as they interact with this legal framework.
This text serves only an educational and informative purpose and does not contain legal advice. Criminal law and practice can differ based upon a given set of facts and relevant legislation.
Rights and Legal Protection
In the UAE, authorities take extradition seriously, and no one is extraditable except through due process.
Every detainee on an Interpol Red Notice has a full right to legal counsel and to oppose extradition on various grounds, such as mistaken identity, expired charges, and political motives.
Legal Process After Arrest (Criminal Law)
Extradition procedures following arrest
Generally, in cases where an Interpol notice is issued, authorities take a person into custody and present them before the Dubai Public Prosecution.
The extradition process may then proceed when the concerned country sends a formal request through diplomatic channels.
The courts in the UAE would verify whether the request is in compliance with local laws and that no legal or human rights of the person are being infringed.
UAE Criminal Law FAQs: Arrests, Bail, Red Notices and Legal Rights
Criminal law in the UAE covers a wide range of offenses, from minor violations to serious crimes such as fraud, assault, drug offenses, breach of trust, defamation, domestic violence, money laundering, and homicide. A criminal case may involve the police, Public Prosecution, courts, bail procedures, settlement options, appeals, or extradition matters.
For individuals, residents, tourists, and business owners, understanding the basics of the UAE criminal justice system is important. A complaint, arrest, travel restriction, INTERPOL Red Notice, or court case can affect your freedom, employment, immigration status, reputation, and ability to travel.
This guide answers common questions about criminal law in the UAE, including arrest rights, bail, extradition, INTERPOL Red Notices, criminal case checks, and common criminal offenses. It is for general information only and should not be treated as legal advice. Criminal cases depend on the facts, evidence, applicable UAE law, and the stage of proceedings.
How Does Criminal Law Work in the UAE?
Criminal law in the UAE is handled through a structured legal process involving police authorities, public prosecution, and the courts. Depending on the case, a person may be questioned, arrested, released on bail, referred to prosecution, tried in court, fined, imprisoned, or allowed to settle the matter if the law permits.
The process can move quickly, especially in cases involving arrest, travel bans, financial crimes, assault, drug offenses, extradition, or INTERPOL Red Notices. Early legal advice is important because the first steps in a criminal case can affect the outcome.
What Are the Main Categories of Criminal Offenses Under UAE Criminal Law?
Short answer: UAE criminal offenses are generally divided into contraventions, misdemeanors, and felonies. The category depends on the seriousness of the offense and the possible punishment.
Contraventions are usually minor offenses that may be punishable by a fine or a limited penalty. These are less serious than misdemeanors or felonies.
Misdemeanors are intermediate criminal offenses. They may involve imprisonment, fines, or both, depending on the facts and the applicable law. Examples may include certain assault cases, defamation, minor fraud, or other offenses that do not fall into the most serious category.
Felonies are serious crimes that may involve long prison sentences or, in rare and severe cases, the death penalty. Examples may include murder, rape, major fraud, serious drug trafficking, and other grave offenses.
Understanding the category of the offense is important because it may affect bail, settlement options, court procedure, penalties, and the need for urgent legal representation.
What Happens After an Arrest in the AE?
Short answer: After an arrest in the UAE, the person may be questioned by police, referred to Public Prosecution, and either released, granted bail, or kept in custody depending on the case.
The exact process depends on the nature of the complaint, the evidence, the seriousness of the alleged offense, and whether the person is considered a flight risk. In some cases, the matter may be resolved early. In others, it may proceed to prosecution and court.
A person facing arrest or questioning should avoid making rushed statements without understanding the legal consequences. Anything said during the early stages may later become relevant in the case.
A criminal lawyer can help by reviewing the complaint, explaining the person’s rights, preparing documents, communicating with authorities where appropriate, and advising on bail or defense strategy.
What Are Your Rights After Arrest in the UAE?
Short answer: A person arrested in the UAE is entitled to understand the allegations, seek legal assistance, and respond through the proper legal process.
The rights available may depend on the facts of the case and the stage of proceedings. In general, a person should be treated according to due process and should not be punished before the legal process is completed.
If the case involves a foreign criminal matter, extradition request, or INTERPOL Red Notice, the person may also have the right to challenge the request depending on the circumstances. Possible issues may include mistaken identity, expired proceedings, political motivation, procedural defects, or human rights concerns.
Because criminal procedures can be time-sensitive, legal advice should be obtained as early as possible.
What Is the Bail Process in UAE Criminal Cases?
Short answer: Bail in UAE criminal cases may be granted by the police, Public Prosecution, or court, depending on the stage and seriousness of the case.
Bail is not automatic. The authority handling the case may consider the nature of the offense, the evidence, the accused person’s status in the UAE, risk of leaving the country, and whether the person is likely to attend future proceedings.
In some cases, bail may require a passport deposit, financial guarantee, sponsor, or other assurance. Even when bail is granted, the accused person may still need to attend hearings, comply with restrictions, and avoid leaving the UAE without permission.
A criminal lawyer can help prepare a bail request, explain the conditions, and advise on what documents may support release.
Can Criminal Cases Be Settled Out of Court in the UAE?
Short answer: Some criminal cases in the UAE may be settled before final judgment, but serious crimes usually cannot be resolved privately.
Settlement may be possible in certain misdemeanor cases, financial disputes, minor assault matters, defamation complaints, or bounced cheque-related cases, depending on the law and whether the complainant agrees. In many cases, Public Prosecution or the court must still approve the settlement.
However, serious crimes such as murder, major drug offenses, money laundering, and other grave criminal matters cannot usually be settled only by private agreement.
Before attempting settlement, you should get legal advice. A poorly handled settlement attempt can create new legal problems or be used against a person later.
What Is Breach of Trust Under UAE Criminal Law?
Short answer: Breach of trust occurs when a person misuses money, property, or assets that were legally entrusted to them.
This type of case may arise in employment, business partnerships, agency relationships, investment arrangements, or situations where one person has been trusted with another person’s property or funds.
For example, an employee, partner, manager, or representative may face a breach of trust complaint if they are accused of using entrusted money for personal purposes or refusing to return property.
A breach of trust can carry serious consequences, including criminal proceedings, repayment claims, fines, or imprisonment depending on the facts. Because these cases often overlap with business or civil disputes, legal review is important to determine whether the matter is truly criminal or primarily commercial.
Are domestic violence cases treated as criminal offenses in the UAE?
Short answer: Domestic violence may be treated as a criminal matter in the UAE depending on the facts, evidence, and nature of the conduct.
Domestic violence can involve physical harm, threats, emotional abuse, harassment, coercive behavior, or other forms of abuse within a family or household relationship. These cases may also overlap with divorce, child custody, residence, and family law issues.
Victims may need urgent protection, police assistance, medical evidence, and legal guidance. Accused individuals may also need legal advice to understand the allegations, respond properly, and protect their rights.
Because domestic violence cases are sensitive and can affect both criminal and family proceedings, professionals should handle them carefully and with legal support.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Offenses in the UAE?
Short answer: Drug offenses in the UAE are treated seriously, and penalties depend on the substance, quantity, intent, and whether the case involves personal use, possession, trafficking, promotion, or repeat offending.
Drug-related cases may involve imprisonment, fines, deportation risk for non-citizens, treatment measures, or other penalties depending on the circumstances. Trafficking or promotion is treated more seriously than personal-use allegations.
Anyone facing a drug-related complaint is strongly encouraged to seek legal advice immediately. These cases can move quickly and may involve strict evidence rules, laboratory reports, police investigation, and court proceedings.
What Are the Penalties for Alcohol-Related Offenses in the UAE?
Short answer: Alcohol-related offenses in the UAE may lead to fines, imprisonment, license suspension, or other penalties depending on the conduct involved.
Alcohol-related legal issues may include drunk driving, public intoxication, disorderly behavior, assault linked to alcohol use, or other offenses committed while intoxicated.
Drunk driving is especially serious because it can involve criminal penalties, traffic penalties, vehicle impoundment, license suspension, and insurance consequences. If injury or death occurs, the case becomes much more serious.
A criminal lawyer can help explain the allegations, review evidence, and advise on the possible consequences.
What Happens in Murder, Homicide, or Violent Assault Cases in the UAE?
Short answer: The UAE treats murder, homicide, and serious violent assault as serious criminal offenses and may impose severe penalties.
The punishment depends on whether the act was intentional, premeditated, accidental, or caused by reckless or violent conduct. The court may also consider aggravating factors, mitigating circumstances, evidence, intent, and the rights of the victim’s family where applicable.
In certain serious cases, concepts such as diya, also known as blood money, may become relevant depending on the legal classification and the position of the victim’s heirs.
Because these cases carry life-changing consequences, they require immediate legal representation and careful handling from the earliest stage.
Can INTERPOL make arrests in Dubai?
Short answer: No. INTERPOL does not arrest people in Dubai or anywhere else. UAE authorities carry out arrests in Dubai under UAE law.
INTERPOL is an international police cooperation organization. It helps member countries share information, including Red Notices, but it does not have its own police officers who arrest people in the UAE.
If a person is listed in an INTERPOL Red Notice, UAE authorities may review the matter and take action under UAE law. This may include questioning, detention, travel restrictions, or extradition-related procedures depending on the facts and legal requirements.
The important point is that INTERPOL itself does not arrest. Local authorities decide what action to take.
What Is an INTERPOL Red Notice?
Short answer: An INTERPOL Red Notice is not an international arrest warrant. It is an alert circulated through INTERPOL to help locate a person wanted by a member country.
A Red Notice is usually requested when a country wants to locate a person for prosecution or to serve a sentence. It does not automatically mean that the person will be arrested or extradited in every country.
In the UAE, Red Notices are treated seriously. A person named in a Red Notice may face travel disruption, detention risk, immigration issues, reputational harm, or extradition proceedings depending on the case.
The legal effect of a Red Notice depends on UAE law, the requesting country, the allegations, supporting documents, and whether a formal extradition request follows.
Does a Red Notice Mean You Will Be Extradited from the UAE?
Short answer: No. A Red Notice does not automatically mean extradition from the UAE.
A Red Notice and extradition are connected, but they are not the same. A Red Notice is an international alert. Extradition is a formal legal process between countries.
For extradition to proceed, the requesting country may need to submit a formal request through proper channels. UAE authorities and courts may then review whether the request satisfies legal requirements.
Possible issues may include the nature of the offense, the documents provided, treaty arrangements, dual criminality, political motivation, limitation periods, human rights concerns, or procedural defects.
That is why a person facing a Red Notice should not assume extradition is automatic. The case must be reviewed carefully.
How Can You Remove or Challenge an INTERPOL Red Notice?
Short answer: A Red Notice may be challenged by submitting a request to the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files, known as the CCF.
The CCF reviews requests relating to data held in INTERPOL’s systems. A person may ask for access to their data, correction of inaccurate information, or deletion of a Red Notice where legal grounds exist.
Possible grounds for challenging a red notice may include the following:
- The case is political, military, religious, or racial in nature
- The matter is mainly civil or commercial rather than criminal
- The charges are outdated, resolved, or unsupported
- The person has been wrongly identified
- The case involves due process concerns
- The notice violates INTERPOL’s rules or human rights standards
A strong request usually needs clear legal arguments, supporting evidence, court documents, correspondence, and an explanation of why the notice should not remain in INTERPOL’s system.
Because Red Notice removal can take time, it is important to act early and avoid contacting authorities without legal guidance.
What Should You Do If You Have a Red Notice in Dubai or the UAE?
Short answer: If you believe you have a Red Notice in Dubai or the UAE, you should get legal advice before traveling, contacting authorities, or making statements.
A UAE criminal lawyer with INTERPOL and extradition experience can help assess whether a notice exists, whether UAE authorities have acted on it, and whether a formal extradition request has been made.
Legal support may include reviewing the foreign case, checking the basis of the notice, preparing a CCF request, addressing extradition risk, applying for bail where relevant, and advising on travel or residency concerns.
A Red Notice can be stressful, but panic can lead to mistakes. The safest approach is to gather accurate information and respond through a structured legal strategy.
How Do Extradition Procedures Work After an Arrest in the UAE?
Short answer: Extradition from the UAE usually requires a formal legal process, not just an INTERPOL alert.
If a person is detained in connection with a foreign case or Red Notice, the matter may be referred to the relevant UAE authorities. The requesting country may then need to submit a formal extradition request with supporting documents.
UAE authorities and courts may review whether the request meets legal requirements. This can include examining the alleged offense, reviewing documents, assessing the applicable treaty or cooperation framework, and determining whether the person’s rights are protected.
A person facing extradition may have legal grounds to object depending on the facts. These may include mistaken identity, political motivation, expired charges, lack of supporting documents, or human rights concerns.
How Do I Check the Status of a Criminal Case in Dubai or the UAE?
Short answer: You can check the status of a criminal case in Dubai or the UAE through official police, court, or Public Prosecution platforms, depending on where the case is registered.
In Dubai, you can check case status through Dubai Police, Dubai Public Prosecution, or Dubai Courts services. In other emirates, the Ministry of Interior or relevant local authority platforms may be used.
You may need details such as your Emirates ID, passport number, case number, or other identification information. If you are unsure whether a case exists, a lawyer may help check through the proper channels.
It is important to check case status regularly if you are involved in a criminal matter because deadlines, hearing dates, bail conditions, and travel restrictions may apply.
How Do I Know If I Have a Criminal Case Against Me in the UAE?
Short answer: You may be able to check whether a criminal case exists by using official UAE police, Ministry of Interior, Public Prosecution, or court services.
A person may also visit the relevant police station or authority in person, but this should be done carefully if there is a risk of arrest or detention. In sensitive cases, it may be safer to ask a lawyer to make inquiries first.
Signs that a criminal case may exist include police calls, travel issues, bank account concerns, immigration problems, summons, complaint notices, or information from another party.
If you suspect there may be a complaint against you, avoid ignoring the issue. At the same time, ensure you understand the risk before traveling or contacting authorities. Legal advice can help you check the position safely.
How Can I Clear or Close a Criminal Case in the UAE?
Short answer: Clearing a criminal case in the UAE depends on the stage of the case, the type of offense, and whether settlement, payment, appeal, or court completion is required.
The first step is to identify where the case stands. It may still be with the police, public prosecution, or court. Each stage has different procedures.
If the case is minor or a settlement is legally allowed, the complainant may agree to withdraw or waive the complaint. In some cases, a waiver can help close the case, but official approval may still be required.
If a judgment has already been issued, the person may need to pay a fine, serve a sentence, file an appeal within the legal deadline, or complete other required steps. Once the matter is fully resolved, it may be possible to obtain confirmation that the case has been closed.
A lawyer can help check the case status, advise on settlement or appeal options, and guide the process for clearing the record where possible.
Can I Get a Police Clearance Certificate After a Criminal Case?
Short answer: A police clearance certificate may be available after a criminal case is fully resolved, but eligibility depends on the case, outcome, and official records.
A Police Clearance Certificate, sometimes called a Good Conduct Certificate, is often required for employment, immigration, licensing, or overseas applications.
If there is an active criminal case, pending complaint, unpaid fine, arrest warrant, or unresolved judgment, the situation may affect the ability to obtain the certificate.
Before applying, it is wise to confirm whether the case is fully closed and whether any restrictions remain.
Can I File a Defamation Case in Dubai Without a Lawyer?
Short answer: Yes, a person may file a defamation complaint in Dubai without a lawyer, but legal advice is strongly recommended.
Defamation may be treated as a criminal offense in the UAE, especially if the statement was made online, through social media, messaging apps, email, or public communication. Cybercrime laws may also apply depending on the facts.
To file a complaint, evidence is important. This may include screenshots; messages; posts; recordings, where legally obtained; witness details; and proof of publication or harm.
A lawyer can help assess whether the statement is legally defamatory, prepare the complaint, organize evidence, and avoid filing a weak or risky claim.
When Should You Contact a Criminal Lawyer in the UAE?
Short answer: You should contact a criminal lawyer as early as possible if you are facing a complaint, arrest, police questioning, bail issue, travel ban, INTERPOL notice, extradition risk, or criminal court case.
Early legal advice can help you understand the allegations; protect your rights; avoid harmful statements; prepare documents; request bail; negotiate settlement where allowed; and respond properly to prosecution or court procedures.
You should also seek legal advice if you are unsure whether a case exists against you. Waiting too long can limit your options and increase legal risk.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Offenses in the UAE?
Short answer: Drug offenses in the UAE can lead to imprisonment, fines, deportation risk, rehabilitation measures, or other penalties depending on the substance, quantity, intent, and case facts.
Drug cases may involve possession, use, import, transport, trafficking, promotion, or supplying drugs to others. Personal-use cases are usually treated differently from trafficking or distribution cases. Because drug cases can move quickly, legal advice should be sought immediately after arrest, questioning, or investigation.
Can a Tourist or Expat Be Arrested for Drug Possession in the UAE?
Short answer: Yes. Tourists and expats can be arrested in the UAE if they are accused of possessing, using, carrying, or importing controlled drugs or restricted substances.
A substance that is legal in another country may still be illegal or controlled in the UAE. This rule can also apply to certain medicines if the person does not have the required prescription or approval. Anyone questioned about drugs should avoid unclear statements and seek legal advice immediately.
What Is Money Laundering Under UAE Criminal Law?
Short answer: Money laundering involves hiding, moving, using, or converting money or assets that criminals believe come from criminal activity.
Money laundering cases may involve bank transfers, cash deposits, company accounts, real estate, cryptocurrency, trade payments, fake invoices, or unexplained funds. These cases often depend on financial records, source-of-funds evidence, banking documents, and the purpose of the transactions.
What Are the Penalties for Money Laundering in the UAE?
Short answer: Money laundering in the UAE can result in imprisonment, heavy fines, asset freezing, confiscation, business restrictions, and serious reputational damage.
The penalty depends on the amount involved, the source of funds, the accused person’s role, whether a company was involved, and whether the case includes organized crime or terrorism financing concerns. Early legal advice is important because AML investigations often involve banks, regulators, police, and prosecution authorities.
Can a Business Owner Face a Money Laundering Case in the UAE?
Short answer: Yes. A business owner, manager, director, accountant, or company representative may face a money laundering investigation if the business is suspected of receiving, moving, hiding, or benefiting from illegal funds.
Suspicion may arise from unusual transfers, unexplained cash deposits, third-party payments, fake invoices, unclear sources of funds, or transactions that do not match normal business activity. Businesses should keep proper records and respond carefully to bank or authority inquiries.
What Should You Do If You Are Accused of Drug Possession or Money Laundering in the UAE?
Short answer: Seek legal advice immediately, avoid making rushed statements, preserve all documents, and follow the official legal process.
For drug cases, useful evidence may include prescriptions, test results, travel records, search details, and witness statements. For money laundering cases, useful evidence may include bank statements, invoices, contracts, company records, source-of-funds documents, and transaction history. Early legal support can help protect your rights and prepare a proper response.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Law in the UAE
Is a criminal complaint the same as a conviction in the UAE?
No. A criminal complaint is not the same as a conviction. A complaint may lead to investigation, but the case must still go through the proper legal process before any final judgment is issued.
Can I leave the UAE if I have a criminal case?
It depends on the case. Some criminal matters may involve travel restrictions, bail conditions, passport deposit, or court orders. You should check your legal status before traveling.
Can a criminal case affect my UAE residency?
Yes, a criminal case may affect residency, employment, immigration status, or future applications depending on the offense and outcome.
Can a lawyer check if I have a criminal case in the UAE?
Yes. A UAE criminal lawyer may help check whether a complaint, case, judgment, travel restriction, or warrant exists through the proper legal channels.
Can criminal charges be withdrawn in the UAE?
Some complaints may be withdrawn or settled, but the outcome depends on the offense, the complainant’s position, and whether the authorities approve. Serious crimes usually cannot be ended by private settlement alone.
Does an INTERPOL Red Notice mean I will be arrested at Dubai Airport?
Not always. A Red Notice can create serious travel risk, but whether a person is detained depends on UAE procedures, the requesting country, the nature of the case, and whether authorities act on the notice.
Is extradition automatic after a red notice?
No. Extradition is a separate legal process. A Red Notice may lead to scrutiny or detention, but extradition usually requires a formal request and legal review.
What are the main categories of criminal offenses under UAE criminal law?
UAE law has divided the crimes into three groups:
Answer:
Contraventions: These are usually minor offenses punishable with fines.
Misdemeanors are intermediate crimes, punishable by jail up to three years or a fine.
Felony crimes include the more serious offenses, like murder, rape, or major fraud, that attract imprisonment of more than three years, and in rare cases, death.
What is the bail process in UAE criminal cases?
Answer:
It may be granted either by the police, prosecution, or court, depending on its stage.
The defendant or their attorney in charge shall file a request for bail with the support of a passport deposit or financial guarantee.
Even on bail, the accused attends the trial and does not leave the UAE without proper permission.
What is a “breach of trust”?
Answer:
Breach of trust occurs when a person uses money or property entrusted to him for his ends—for instance, when an employee or business partner diverts funds.
It is punishable under Article 454 of the Penal Code and may lead to imprisonment and the return of the money misused.
Can criminal cases be settled out of court?
Answer:
Some misdemeanors—minor assault, defamation, or bounced cheques for example—may be settled amicably before final judgment if the victim agrees and the prosecution approves.
But serious crimes like murder, drugs, and money laundering cannot be settled privately.
What is a Red Notice? How do I remove a red notice?
Short Answer: A Red Notice does not issue an international arrest. What it does is issue a notice through INTERPOL at the request of a member country, stating that a person is either to be prosecuted or to serve a term of imprisonment.
In the UAE, local authorities treat Red Notices very seriously and may impose detention or travel restrictions on individuals named in them.
Review the legal basis for the notice.
The first issue is to ascertain the reason for which the Red Notice was issued. It may be that:
A criminal trial occurred in a different country.
A political issue that is in fact a civil matter is labeled as criminal.
A trained lawyer can review and report if the notice goes against INTERPOL’s policies, which include the prohibition of political and religious issues.
Submit a request to the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files (CCF).
To contest a Red Notice, your attorney must present a petition to the CCF, which also looks after INTERPOL’s database. The application should include
Evidence that the case is of a civil, commercial, or political nature.
Proof that the charges are without merit, resolved, or out of time.
Relevant court papers and correspondence that show due process violations.
The review process, which may take up to several months, is the only formal way to ask for deletion from INTERPOL’s database.
In the UAE, for legal help, you can contact a lawyer for free and paid services.
If you have a Red Notice that impacts your status in Dubai or any other emirate, a criminal lawyer based in the UAE may work with the Ministry of Interior and Public Prosecution. The lawyer may:.
Check to see if the UAE has issued and acted on the Red Notice.
Submit a request for temporary leave or termination.
Help out with bail, travel issues, or sorting out your legal status.
Act soon but calmly.
Red Notices also cause travel issues and damage reputations, but they can be challenged and removed.
It is important to stay calm, gather accurate info, and have your lawyer handle communication with INTERPOL and local authorities.
What are the penalties for drug and alcohol offenses?
Answer:
Drug crimes, including possession, use, or trafficking, are punishable under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotics.
Penalties depend on the substance and intent: personal use or trafficking.
Alcohol-related crimes, such as drunk driving or public intoxication, may include fines, imprisonment, and driving-license suspension.
What happens in cases of murder, homicide, or violent assault?
Answer:
These are classified as felonies.
The sentences include death or imprisonment for life and even death depending on the context and motive.
In the UAE, the punishment varies depending on whether the crime was committed deliberately; if so, the punishment ranges from the death sentence to a life sentence.
The family of the victim has the option to receive “diya” (blood money) repayment in AED 200,000 if the crime was committed wrongfully.
In essence, there are criminal laws within the UAE that are similar to those in other countries.
In Qisas cases, the courts may also take into account mitigating factors or a pardon from the family of the victims during sentencing, according to the UAE Criminal Law.
Federal Law by Decree No. 31 of 2021 Promulgating the Crimes and Penalties Law
Essential details about punishment in UAE murders
Premeditated Murder:
The death penalty may be imposed if it is committed with the intention to destroy an ancestor or public officials or with chemicals and explosive substances.
Intentional manslaughter, life imprisonment.
If blood money is accepted:
If the heirs waive claiming the right to the death penalty in favor of blood money, then the punishment shall be temporary imprisonment with a minimum term of no less than seven years.
Unintentional killing:
If causing death was due to bodily injury that was intended to be non-lethal, then the punishment is up to ten years’ imprisonment.
Aggravating circumstances:
The accused’s intoxication during the criminal act can be classified as an aggravating circumstance. Other factors to consider:
The sentences may also depend on other factors such as the pertinent articles in the Penal Code and whether other crimes are involved.
How do I check the status of a criminal case filed in the UAE?
Answer:
If you are involved in a criminal case, the process for checking case status online in Dubai is simple. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Dubai Police eServices website portal or the Dubai Courts website.
- Navigate to the “Criminal Case” section.
- Enter the necessary details, including the case number and your personal identification information.
- The system will display the latest updates regarding your case, including upcoming hearings or verdicts. Criminal cases often involve strict timelines, so it’s vital to check regularly for any changes to your case status.
Checking your case status online in Dubai is a simple and efficient way to stay informed about your legal matters. At Amal Khamis Law Firm, we provide expert guidance to help you navigate the process seamlessly.
How do I know if I have a criminal case against me?
Answer:
1. Check through the Dubai Police website/MOI portals
In the UAE, you can check whether there are any criminal charges filed against you by visiting the Dubai Police website or the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website in the UAE.
You can check whether there are any criminal charges filed against you by searching your Emirates ID on these websites.
2. Visit the Nearest Police Station
If you believe that there is a possibility that someone has lodged a complaint against you, then you can personally visit the nearest Dubai Police station to check if there are any criminal charges filed against you.
When you go to the station, you need to come with your Emirates ID card or your passport.
3. Check with Dubai Public Prosecution or Courts
In other instances, the grievance proceeds to either the Public Prosecution Office or the Dubai Courts.
You can check if there is any criminal case filed or arrest warrant made in your name by inquiring either personally or through their online services.
4. Take Advice from an Attorney
If you suspect an investigation targeting you or have received a notice about your case, contact criminal attorneys in Dubai immediately.
They can check your case for any criminal records against you.
5. Stay Calm and Act Responsibly
Finding out that there might be an outstanding case can be an intimidating experience.
Do not travel until the circumstances are clear; do not ignore calls from the police either.
Seeking professional guidance can help bring the issue to closure.
How can I clear my criminal case in the UAE?
Answer:
1. Know What Stage Your Case At
First, check whether your file is still with the police, with the public prosecutor, or already in court.
Each process has its means to clarify matters. The earlier you know what’s what, the sooner you can move forward.
2. Settle It Early If Possible
If it’s a trivial matter such as an invalid cheque, dispute, or slight offense, you might be able to come to terms with the complainant yourself.
As soon as the complainant agrees to drop the charge, your attorney can lodge a waiver and have the case dismissed before it goes to court.
3. If There’s Already a Judgment
Since the court has already made a ruling, you will be required to either serve the jail term, pay the fine if there is one, or appeal the case (generally within 15 days).
Once all the processes are complete, your attorney can then obtain confirmation that the case has been closed.
4. Obtain Police Clearance Certificate
Once the case has been cleared, you are eligible to get a Police Clearance Certificate (also referred to as a ‘Good Conduct Certificate’) from either the Dubai Police or the Ministry of Interior in the UAE.
The certificate ensures that one has no criminal charges pending.
5. Always Get Legal Help
In the UAE, criminal matters can quickly escalate.
Can I file a criminal case without a lawyer?
Yes, of course, a criminal case in Dubai can be brought without an attorney by lodging a complaint at the police or at the public prosecution office.
Nevertheless, having an attorney would work to your benefit in gathering legal evidence, as well as in avoiding many pitfalls in filing a complaint.
A UAE criminal lawyer can advise on the best way forward and provide all the necessary paperwork to ensure that you take care of matters appropriately.
