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Home Services Criminal Law in the UAE: Protecting Your Rights

Criminal Law in the UAE: Protecting Your Rights

A criminal case in the UAE is a formal investigation conducted by state authorities into an act prohibited by the Penal Code. Even a minor offense can result in arrest, travel bans, and court proceedings. Navigating the system and defending yourself without a qualified criminal lawyer in Dubai or Abu Dhabi is nearly impossible.

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Legal Framework

ActPurpose
Federal Decree-Law No. 31/2021New UAE Penal Code
Federal Decree-Law No. 38/2022Criminal Procedure Code
Cybercrime Law No. 34/2021Offenses in the digital environment
Drug Law, AML, Anti-TerrorismSpecific case categories

Types of Criminal Cases

CategoryDescriptionExamples
FeloniesSerious crimesMurder, rape, treason
MisdemeanoursMedium severity offensesFraud, theft, assault
ContraventionsMinor violationsTraffic offenses, noise, public disturbance

Common Criminal Cases We Handle

  • Fraud (banking, corporate).
  • Bounced cheques.
  • Cybercrimes (hacking, phishing, online defamation).
  • Serious traffic accidents.
  • Drug-related cases.
  • Domestic violence and threats.
  • Insults and defamation — even on social media or messaging apps.

Criminal Prosecution Process in the UAE

  1. Filing a complaint (with police, prosecution, or online).
  2. Investigation (interrogations, evidence collection).
  3. Case submission to the Public Prosecution.
  4. Preliminary court hearing.
  5. First instance trial.
  6. Appeal and cassation if required.

Where Criminal Cases Are Heard

CourtJurisdiction
Criminal CourtAll Emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.
State Security CourtNational security and terrorism cases
DIFC / ADGM Courts❌ Do not hear criminal cases

Defendant’s Rights in the UAE

  • Right to a lawyer from the first stage of the case.
  • Right to remain silent and be informed of charges.
  • Protection from unlawful pressure or coercion.
  • Right to appeal a court judgment.
  • Presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
Urgent Criminal Defense in the UAE

Have you been summoned for interrogation or charged with a crime? A mistake could cost your freedom. MIRAD provides immediate protection of your rights with experienced criminal defense lawyers in Dubai and across the UAE.

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HowTo: What to Do if You Are Summoned for Interrogation?

  1. Stay calm and do not give statements without a lawyer.
  2. Contact a licensed UAE lawyer immediately (MIRAD will assist quickly).
  3. Prepare documents: passport, Emirates ID, contracts, or correspondence.
  4. Do not sign any papers without legal review.
  5. If you are a foreigner, inform your consulate.
  6. Follow your lawyer’s advice at every stage.

MIRAD: Criminal Defense Lawyers in the UAE

  • Emergency assistance upon arrest or complaint.
  • Appointment of an experienced criminal lawyer licensed in the UAE.
  • Defense strategy development and independent investigation.
  • Representation before police, prosecution, and courts.
  • Support for foreigners: translation, consular communication.
  • Handling appeals and cassation cases.

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