How to File a Criminal Case in Dubai
A practical guide for victims of fraud, assault, threats, theft and other offences who want to register a complaint.
In short: to file a criminal case in Dubai, register a complaint with the competent authority for the place where the offence happened, or directly with the Public Prosecution, and give a statement with your evidence. Some complaints can also be filed through official Dubai smart services. The complaint is investigated, then the Public Prosecution decides whether to refer the accused to court. You can claim compensation in the criminal case or in a separate civil claim.
Get Help With Your Complaint
Step 1: Check Whether It Is a Criminal Matter
Not every dispute is a crime. An unpaid invoice is usually a civil matter; taking money through deception may be fraud. Since 2022, most bounced cheques are handled through civil enforcement rather than a criminal complaint (see cheque bounce lawyers). Filing the wrong type of case wastes time and can weaken your position.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
- Documents: contracts, receipts, bank transfers, invoices
- Messages and emails, with dates and sender details visible
- Photos, videos and medical reports for injuries
- Names and contact details of witnesses
- Identity details of the accused, if known
Step 3: Register the Complaint
File at the competent authority for the area where the offence happened, through the official Dubai smart application for certain categories, or with the Public Prosecution. You give a statement, which is recorded in Arabic; ask for a translator if needed and read it before signing. You receive a complaint reference number.
Step 4: Investigation
The accused is summoned to respond, and witnesses may be questioned. Technical or forensic reports may be requested for cybercrime or financial cases. A travel ban may be placed on the accused in some cases.
Step 5: Public Prosecution Decision
The prosecutor reviews the file and may refer the case to court, order further investigation, or close it for lack of evidence. If your complaint is closed, you can challenge the decision within the legal deadline.
Step 6: Court and Compensation
At trial, you can join as a civil claimant to ask for compensation, or file a separate civil case after the criminal judgment. A conviction makes the civil claim much easier.
Typical Timeline
| Stage | Indicative duration |
|---|---|
| Registration and statements | Days to weeks |
| Investigation and prosecution review | Weeks to months |
| Trial | A few months, plus any appeal |
Mistakes That Weaken a Complaint
- Filing without documents and relying only on your account.
- Contacting or threatening the accused after filing.
- Signing a statement that does not match what you said.
- Settling informally without formally withdrawing the complaint.
For representation, see our criminal lawyers in Dubai. For defamation, see how to file a defamation case.
Stages Of A Criminal Complaint
Help drafting the complaint, attending the investigation and following the case to court.
- Registering The Complaint
- Investigation Statement Stage
- Evidence Submission
- Public Prosecution Questioning
- Written Defence Memoranda
- Referral To The Criminal Court
- Travel Ban Applications
- Judgment And Appeal
- Withdrawal And Settlement
Related Legal Services
If your matter involves another area of law, start with the page below.
- Criminal LawyersDefence and complaints from investigation to appeal.
- Defamation LawyersOnline and offline defamation, insult and reputation claims.
- Cheque Bounce LawyersRecovering bounced cheques through the execution court, and defending claims.
- Banking & Finance LawyersBank disputes, loan defaults, fraud allegations and debt recovery.
- Drug Crimes LawyersDefence in possession, use and supply cases under UAE drug law.
- Litigation LawyersCourt representation in civil, commercial and property disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
General guidance on this area of law. Advice on your own case requires your documents.
Where Do I File A Criminal Complaint In Dubai?
At the competent authority for the place where the offence happened, through official Dubai smart services for some categories, or with the Public Prosecution.
Can A Lawyer File A Criminal Complaint For Me In Dubai?
Yes. A lawyer can prepare the complaint in Arabic, attend with you, and follow it through the investigation and prosecution.
How Long Does A Criminal Complaint Take In Dubai?
Registration takes days. The investigation and prosecution review can take weeks to months, and a trial a few more months, depending on the case.
Can I Withdraw A Criminal Complaint In Dubai?
For some offences, yes, and withdrawal ends the case. For serious offences, the prosecution can continue even if the complaint is withdrawn.
Can I Get Compensation From A Criminal Case In Dubai?
Yes. You can join the criminal case as a civil claimant or file a separate civil claim after the judgment.
How Do I File A Cheating Or Fraud Case In Dubai?
File a criminal complaint at a Dubai Police station or with the Public Prosecution, with the evidence of the fraud: contracts, bank transfers, receipts and messages. The police investigate, then the prosecution decides whether to take the case to court. You can claim your losses back through a civil claim alongside or after the criminal case.
Prepare Your Complaint Before You File It
Send the facts and the evidence you hold, and we will advise what the prosecutor will need to see.
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