Criminal Lawyers in Dubai
Defence for people accused of an offence, and representation for victims who want to file a complaint, at every stage from investigation to appeal.
In short: a criminal case in Dubai moves through three main stages: investigation, where statements are taken; the Public Prosecution, which decides whether to charge; and the criminal courts (Misdemeanours or Criminal Court, then Appeal and Cassation). Offences are defined mainly in the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021), and procedure in the Criminal Procedure Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022). The earliest stage matters most: what you say in the first statement often decides the case.
If you or a family member has been detained or summoned, call us before any statement is signed. We are on call 24 hours a day.
Call +971 54 454 3909
How a Criminal Case Proceeds in Dubai
| Stage | What happens | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| Complaint and investigation | A complaint is registered; the accused and witnesses give statements | Advise before questioning, attend, and challenge unfair procedure |
| Public Prosecution | The prosecutor questions the accused and decides whether to refer to court, close the case, or issue a penal order | Submit a written defence and evidence; seek closure or reduced charges |
| Court of First Instance | Misdemeanour or felony trial | Plead the defence, cross-examine, and argue on sentence |
| Appeal and Cassation | Review of facts and law | File appeals within the deadline |
Bail, Travel Bans and Detention
A person under investigation may be released against a passport deposit, a financial guarantee or a guarantor, depending on the offence. A travel ban is often placed while a case is open. We apply for release, challenge travel bans that are no longer justified, and check whether a ban exists before you travel.
Cases We Handle
- Fraud, breach of trust and financial crimes; see banking and finance lawyers
- Drug offences; see drug crimes lawyers
- Defamation and cybercrime; see defamation lawyers
- Assault, threats and harassment
- Theft, forgery and embezzlement
- Traffic offences involving injury or death
- Alcohol-related offences and public decency cases
- Cases with an international element, including extradition; see INTERPOL lawyers
If You Are Detained or Summoned
- Stay calm and give your identity details.
- Ask for your advocate before answering questions on the substance of the allegation.
- Do not sign a statement in Arabic that you do not fully understand; ask for a translator.
- Tell your family or lawyer where you are held and the case reference.
Victims of Crime
If you are the victim, we prepare and file your complaint, follow the prosecution, and bring a civil claim for compensation. See our guide on how to file a criminal case in Dubai.
Deportation and Criminal Records
For foreign nationals, a conviction can lead to deportation, although the court has discretion in many offences. A criminal record also affects future visas and employment. Settlement with the complainant, where the law allows, can end a case before a conviction.
Criminal Cases Our Dubai Lawyers Handle
Defence and complaints from the police station and Public Prosecution to judgment and appeal.
- Kidnapping Cases
- Financial Fraud
- Bank Frauds
- Corporate Frauds
- Cheques Bouncing
- Market Manipulation
- Economic Offences
- Defamation Cases
- Misappropriation And Siphoning Of Funds
Related Legal Services
If your matter involves another area of law, start with the page below.
- Drug Crimes LawyersDefence in possession, use and supply cases under UAE drug law.
- Cheque Bounce LawyersRecovering bounced cheques through the execution court, and defending claims.
- Defamation LawyersOnline and offline defamation, insult and reputation claims.
- Banking & Finance LawyersBank disputes, loan defaults, fraud allegations and debt recovery.
- Litigation LawyersCourt representation in civil, commercial and property disputes.
- Civil LawyersContract, debt, compensation and commercial claims before the civil courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
General guidance on this area of law. Advice on your own case requires your documents.
What Should I Do First If I Am Detained In Dubai?
Give your identity details and ask for your advocate to be present before answering questions about the allegation. Do not sign any statement you do not fully understand.
Can I Get Bail In Dubai?
Often yes. Release may be granted against a passport deposit, a financial guarantee or a guarantor, depending on the offence and the stage of the case.
How Do I Check If I Have A Travel Ban In Dubai?
Travel bans can be checked through official Dubai Courts and Public Prosecution channels, usually with your Emirates ID. A lawyer can confirm the details and apply to lift it.
Can A Criminal Case Be Settled In Dubai?
For some offences, such as certain defamation, assault and financial cases, the complainant's withdrawal or a settlement can end the case. Serious offences continue regardless.
Will I Be Deported If Convicted In Dubai?
Not always. Deportation is mandatory for some offences and at the court's discretion for others. A lawyer can argue against deportation at sentencing.
How Long Does A Criminal Case Take In Dubai?
A simple misdemeanour can be decided in a few months. Felonies and cases with appeals can take much longer.
Speak To A Criminal Lawyer In Dubai Before Your Next Hearing
Send the case reference and any summons or statement you have received. An advocate will advise on the next step.
- OfficeSixth Floor, Suite 614
Emaar Business Park Building 4
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE - Telephone+971 54 454 3909 (On Call 24/7)
- WhatsApp+971 54 454 3909
- Emailinfo@htlawyers.ae
- DirectionsOpen In Google Maps
- HoursOffice Hours 08:00 To 16:00