Bold truth: In Dubai, an INTERPOL Red Notice or a formal extradition request can turn a normal day into a legal sprint. But here’s the thing—you have rights, a process exists, and you can fight back.
What triggers an extradition case in Dubai?
Two common sparks:
- An official extradition request from a foreign country (via diplomatic channels) with your identity details, the alleged offense, and the legal basis for extradition.
- An INTERPOL Red Notice circulated through UAE INTERPOL channels that flags you for arrest and kicks off extradition proceedings if you’re found in the UAE.
Honestly, I’ve seen cases where one email from abroad or a quietly issued Red Notice was enough to start the machine. The key is what happens next.
How UAE authorities screen a request (before court)
The UAE does not rubber-stamp foreign requests. Authorities assess whether:
- The offense is extraditable and dual criminality applies (is it a crime in both countries?).
- Nationality restrictions matter (e.g., if you’re a UAE national).
- Procedural and human-rights standards in the requesting state are acceptable.
Agencies typically involved: Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, Public Prosecution, and UAE INTERPOL.
If the file passes this gatekeeping, it moves to court.
What happens in court (and your options)
A UAE court will review:
- The legality of the request, due process, and fairness of the foreign judicial system.
- Human-rights considerations and whether the case is political.
- Whether all formalities have been met.
You can challenge extradition and appeal up to the Court of Cassation. If the judiciary approves, the Ministry of Justice issues the final ruling and extradition proceeds through official channels.
Red Notices in Dubai: important realities
- A Red Notice is not a global arrest warrant, but Dubai police may arrest based on it and refer the case into extradition proceedings.
- Refugee and asylum protections matter: cases that look politically motivated or abusive get extra scrutiny, and recognized refugees have safeguards against misuse.
Refugees & asylum seekers: how Dubai handles Red Notices
From what I’ve worked on, this is where details decide outcomes:
- Recognized refugees should be protected from Red Notices tied to persecution, and INTERPOL has controls to prevent political misuse.
- Requests can be challenged if they violate INTERPOL rules or humanitarian norms.
- Status reviews can occur if new evidence emerges; if refugee status is revoked, a Red Notice may follow.
- Member states, including the UAE, update INTERPOL databases during asylum processes to avoid abuse and manage risk.
If you’re flagged—do this now
- Get counsel immediately. Timing is everything once a Red Notice or request hits.
- Verify identity and documents. Mistaken identity isn’t rare—fixing it early saves months.
- Audit dual criminality and treaty grounds. If the offense doesn’t map to UAE law, that’s a core defense.
- Document human-rights risks. If extradited, could you face unfair trial, persecution, or inhumane treatment? Bring evidence.
- Challenge the Red Notice (if applicable). Seek correction or deletion through the appropriate INTERPOL channels while litigating locally.
- Prepare for appeals. Build the record for the Court of Cassation from day one.
The bottom line
Extradition in Dubai starts with a valid foreign request or a Red Notice, but it ends with law, evidence, and advocacy. The system includes checks—use them. Build early, move fast, and don’t concede ground you don’t have to.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for actions taken based on its contents. For advice on your specific situation, consult a qualified lawyer.
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