The United Arab Emirates is a country that takes its laws very seriously, especially when it comes to crimes like theft. UAE punishment for theft is governed by a combination of Sharia law and the UAE Penal Code. The UAE has set clear and firm punishments for anyone found guilty of theft. This approach is not just about deterrence but also about maintaining the country’s security and trust.
Whether you’re a resident, visitor, or expatriate, If you are accused of theft, it’s essential to understand the theft laws in the UAE and seek help from a criminal lawyer in Dubai.
What Is Theft Under UAE Law
Theft is considered a serious crime in the UAE, typically regulated under Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 (UAE Penal Code). According to Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, theft is defined as the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The UAE punishment for theft depends on multiple factors, including the value of the stolen property, whether violence was involved, the method of theft, and the offender’s criminal history. A detailed guide on the UAE punishment for theft, its types, and the applicable law is given below.
UAE Punishment For Theft: Categories and Consequences
Petty Theft
- Definition: Petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property without any aggravating factors, such as shoplifting or stealing low-value items worth less than AED 1000.
- The punishment for petty theft: could range from a fine of up to AED 5,000 and short-term for up to six months imprisonment to deportation, especially for non-citizens.
Theft by a Servant
- Definition: Theft by a servant is taken very seriously, and the uae punishment for theft can be severe, especially when the crime involves a breach of trust.
- The UAE punishment for theft by servant: Penalties typically include fines of up to AED 10,000, imprisonment for up to five years, and the possibility of deportation, particularly for expatriates. While corporal punishment, such as amputation, is theoretically possible under Sharia law, it is not commonly applied and is reserved for the most extreme cases. The UAE legal system aims to maintain public order and justice, and those found guilty of theft by a servant face significant legal and personal consequences.
Aggravated Theft
- Definition: Aggravated theft occurs when the crime is committed under more severe conditions, such as the use of violence, weapons, or multiple offenders.
- The punishment for Aggravated theft: The penalty for aggravated theft is more severe than for simple theft, with longer prison sentences for up to ten years and/or a fine of up to AED 50,000. Additionally, fines may be imposed, and the offender could be required to pay restitution to the victim.
Theft by Fraud
- Definition: Committing theft by way of deceipt: identity fraud, or false pretence (such as scams, falsifying documents, or other forms of deception), the penalty can be severe.
- The UAE punishment for theft by fraud: The crime is treated as a particularly serious offense in the UAE, which can lead to imprisonment for up to three or seven years and/or a fine of up to AED 10,000. In many cases, the courts take into account the level of sophistication of the fraud and the amount of money or property involved.
Robbery
- Definition: Robbery, especially when carried out with violence or weapons or victims are threatened with harm, is considered one of the most severe forms of theft in the UAE.
- The punishment for robbery: Penalties for robbery can include long prison sentences for up to fifteen years and/or a fine of up to AED 200,000. In some cases, can extend to life imprisonment or even the death penalty in extreme cases. The UAE Penal Code does not take kindly to crimes that involve the threat of violence, especially when it causes harm or fear to the victim.
Burglary
- Definition: Burglary is a serious offense, especially because it often involves breaking into a private space, such as a home or office or building to steal property.
- The punishment for burglary: The penalties for burglary include imprisonment for up to ten years and/or a fine of up to AED 50,000m, and in some cases, life imprisonment. If the burglar was armed or if the crime resulted in harm to the victim, the penalties can be even more severe. Burglary penalties are often more severe due to the violation of personal space and privacy.
Theft by Embezzlement
- Definition: Embezzlement is considered a severe crime under the UAE Penal Code, especially because it involves a breach of trust, often committed by those in positions of responsibility. The UAE legal system imposes heavy penalties to deter such crimes, reflecting the country’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its financial systems and institutions.
- The UAE punishment for theft by embezzlement: If convicted, individuals found guilty of embezzlement can face significant fines, imprisonment up to 10 years , and may also be required to repay the stolen assets. The UAE views embezzlement not just as theft, but as an offense that undermines the trust on which businesses and institutions rely.
If accused of theft or a victim of theft, it is significant to retain the services of a UAE licensed lawyer who has experience in criminal law. Our Criminal lawyers in dubai can provide advice on how to navigate any investigation, prepare a defense, or seek compensation.
Criminal Procedure against UAE Punishment For Theft
- Reporting: Complaint to be filed with the UAE Police either online or in person.
- Investigation: Police gather the required evidence, including CCTV footage and witnesses.
- Prosecution: Public Prosecution presses charges against the criminal based on the evidence.
- Trial: Theft cases will be taken to trial in criminal courts.
- Judgment and Sentencing: Sentence to be pronounced based on the Penal Code.
Statutory Provisions on UAE Punishment for Theft
- The UAE Penal Code elaborates on the sentence for theft as under:
Article 440-449: Explains theft and other related offenses. - Article 451: Relates to the law on aggravated theft and robbery.
- Federal Decree-Law No. 5 of 2012 on Cybercrime: Covers theft that takes place by electronic means and cyber crime punishment in UAE.
Judicial Process in Theft Cases
Once an individual is arrested for theft, the judicial process is typically swift but thorough. The accused is taken to trial, where evidence is presented, and the case is examined in detail.
The Investigation
After an arrest, authorities conduct an investigation to collect evidence and determine the extent of the theft. This may involve interrogating the suspect and any witnesses.
Trial and Sentencing
If the suspect is found guilty, the judge will hand down a sentence. Depending on the case, this could involve a combination of prison time, fines, or more severe punishments like corporal punishment.
It’s important for anyone facing theft charges in the UAE to seek legal counsel. Our experienced lawyers in dubai at Amal Khamis law firm can provide invaluable advice, help navigate the legal system, and secure a more lenient sentence.
Who to Contact for Legal Advice Regarding UAE Punishment For Theft
At Amal Khamis law firm with her team of professional Criminal lawyers in dubai represents the accused, We can also play an important role in representing victims of theft, particularly in cases where the victim is seeking restitution or compensation for their losses. And we can help ensure that the victim’s testimony is heard in court and that their rights are considered during the legal process.
If you are facing theft charges, Amal Khamis with her team of criminal lawyers in dubai are responsible for representing the accused during the court proceedings ensuring that they receive a fair trial and minimizing the severity of the uae punishment for theft. This includes presenting the defense, cross-examining witnesses, and making legal arguments to protect the rights of our clients.
Protect your rights and your future by contact us now through the telephone number or by email .
UAE Punishment For Theft: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do they cut your hands off for stealing in Dubai?
No, the UAE does not allow hand amputation for theft, even though it is mentioned under Sharia; the offense of theft falls under modern criminal law.
Can foreigners be prosecuted for theft in the UAE?
Yes, they come under the UAE Penal Code; after serving sentences, they will be deported.
What can be done to safeguard against theft in the UAE?
Keep your valuables safe whenever out in public.
Fixing safe locks and burglary systems at residences.
Not sharing personal information while accessing the internet.
How is cyber theft dealt with in the UAE?
The Cybercrimes Law covers cyber theft, where the sentence can be imprisonment along with a fine starting from AED 250,000 up to AED 1 million.
