Who Actually Handles Criminal Cases in the UAE? Here’s the Simple Breakdown Most people assume the police do everything. They don’t. In the UAE, the police investigate, and the Public Prosecution prosecutes. Two different roles. One tight system. The Big Picture When a crime is reported, the police move first. They take statements, gather evidence,

If you’re accused of a crime in Dubai, three players determine your future: Dubai Police, the Public Prosecution, and the criminal courts. Know who does what, and you’ll know how to protect yourself. The Big Picture Dubai enforces criminal law under federal UAE legislation. Day to day, local authorities handle most offenses, while national security

That’s the rule in the UAE: nationals aren’t handed over to foreign courts. If an Emirati is accused of a crime abroad, the UAE asserts jurisdiction and prosecutes domestically instead. Why this matters now Cross-border investigations are more common than ever—think financial crimes, cyber offenses, or travel-related incidents. Yet for Emiratis, nationality is a decisive

Here’s the truth: most cases don’t end with just “jail or no jail.” Judges have a toolkit—fines, imprisonment, deportation for non-citizens, and community service—and they mix and match based on the offense and your record. The Big Picture: How Courts Decide Sentencing isn’t random. Courts look at the seriousness of the charge, whether anyone was

Most people think a “trial” is one long dramatic day in court — but in Dubai’s Court of First Instance, it’s a series of short, focused hearings that move your case forward step by step. That rhythm surprises clients, yet it’s exactly how you protect your rights and build a strong defense. How the Process