Drug Crimes Lawyers in Dubai
Defence for residents and visitors accused of drug possession, use, transit or supply, including cases that begin at the airport.
In short: drug offences in the UAE are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021 on Combating Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. Use or possession for personal use is a crime, and a positive urine or blood test can be enough for a charge, even if the drug was taken abroad. Supply and trafficking carry very heavy sentences. The 2021 law gives courts more options for first-time users, including rehabilitation and discretion over deportation, so early legal advice can change the outcome significantly.
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Types of Drug Charges in the UAE
| Charge | Typical facts | Seriousness |
|---|---|---|
| Use (consumption) | Positive test, or admission | Imprisonment and/or fine; first offence has more options |
| Possession for personal use | Small quantity found on the person, home or car | Similar to use; quantity and circumstances matter |
| Possession with intent to supply | Larger quantity, packaging, messages, cash | Long prison terms |
| Trafficking and import | Drugs brought into the UAE | The most serious penalties |
| Prescription medication | Controlled medicines carried without approval | Can be treated as possession if not declared properly |
First-Time Offenders
For a first offence of personal use, the law allows the court to consider alternatives such as rehabilitation, and the court has discretion over deportation for foreign nationals in many cases. A person who comes forward voluntarily for treatment before being caught may be exempt from prosecution. How the case is presented at the prosecution stage matters.
How We Defend Drug Cases
- Checking the legality of the stop, search and arrest.
- Reviewing laboratory reports, the chain of custody and testing procedure.
- Challenging whether you knew about or controlled the substance.
- Arguing that the quantity and evidence show personal use, not supply.
- Presenting mitigation: first offence, circumstances, employment, family.
- Arguing against deportation where the court has discretion.
Transit Passengers and Visitors
Residue in luggage, cannabis products bought legally elsewhere, or undeclared medication can all lead to arrest at a Dubai airport. Travellers carrying prescription medicines should check the UAE's controlled medicines rules and carry the prescription.
If a Family Member Has Been Arrested
- Find out where they are held and the case reference.
- Instruct a lawyer before the prosecution interview if possible.
- Collect prescriptions, medical records and character references.
See also our criminal lawyers in Dubai and guide to criminal procedure.
Drug Case Matters We Handle
Defence to possession, use, transit and supply charges, including first-offence and deportation questions.
- Possession Allegations
- Consumption Allegations
- Trafficking Charges
- Wrongful Implication Defence
- Challenges To Forensic Evidence
- Driving Under The Influence
- Airport And Customs Seizures
- Rehabilitation Applications
- Appeals Against Conviction
Related Legal Services
If your matter involves another area of law, start with the page below.
- Criminal LawyersDefence and complaints from investigation to appeal.
- Litigation LawyersCourt representation in civil, commercial and property disputes.
- Defamation LawyersOnline and offline defamation, insult and reputation claims.
- Banking & Finance LawyersBank disputes, loan defaults, fraud allegations and debt recovery.
- Civil LawyersContract, debt, compensation and commercial claims before the civil courts.
- Legal AdvisorOngoing legal advice for individuals and businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
General guidance on this area of law. Advice on your own case requires your documents.
Is Drug Use A Crime In Dubai Even If I Took It Abroad?
Yes. A positive test in the UAE can lead to a charge of use, even if the substance was taken in a country where it is legal.
What Is The Penalty For A First Drug Offence In Dubai?
It can include imprisonment, a fine or both. For a first offence of personal use, the 2021 law gives courts more options, including rehabilitation, and discretion over deportation in many cases.
Will I Be Deported For A Drug Offence In The UAE?
Not automatically in all cases. For many personal-use offences, deportation is at the court's discretion, and a lawyer can argue against it.
Can I Bring Prescription Medicine Into Dubai?
Some medicines are controlled in the UAE. Check the official list, carry the prescription, and obtain approval where required before travelling.
Can A Drug Case Be Closed At The Prosecution Stage?
Sometimes, for example where evidence is weak or procedure was not followed. A written defence at that stage is often the most important step.
Get Defence Advice On A Drug Allegation Now
Drug files move quickly through the Public Prosecution. Send the case reference and where the matter was registered.
- 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