After an arrest you are taken for questioning and the case is referred to the prosecution, which decides whether you stay in detention or are released. Early legal help at this point matters most.
Where this fits: Police and prosecution stages.
What are my rights after an arrest?
You can ask to contact a lawyer and your family or embassy, and to have an interpreter if you do not understand the language.
What you say is recorded, so say as little as necessary until you have advice.
How does pre-trial detention work?
The prosecution or court can order you held while the investigation or trial continues.
The reasons and period depend on the offence and the evidence, and detention can be challenged or reviewed.
What are arrest warrants?
A warrant authorises your arrest, often at an airport or checkpoint.
A lawyer can check whether one exists and advise on handling it safely.
What should I do first?
Stay calm and be polite
Do not resist, argue or make admissions.
Ask for a lawyer and an interpreter
Do not sign statements you cannot read.
Have someone call us
A family member can reach us 24/7 on behalf of the person arrested.
Gather the person's documents
Passport, residence visa and Emirates ID details help us act quickly.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Topics in this area
Within arrest & detention we cover:
- Arrest warrants
- Rights after arrest
- Pre-trial detention
- Release
Detailed guides
Rights After Arrest
What the law says must happen after an arrest: being told the charge, the right to remain silent, access to a lawyer, an interpreter and the time limits for seeing the prosecution.
Read the guidePre-Trial Detention
How long the Public Prosecution and the court can hold someone before trial, how extensions work and how to challenge them.
Read the guideArrest
When a judicial police officer can arrest, how ordinary citizens can hand someone over, and what must happen next.
Read the guideArrest Warrants
Who can issue an arrest warrant, when the prosecution issues one, how long it lasts and how to find out whether one exists.
Read the guideRelease from Detention
How release works at each stage, from the Public Prosecution to the court, and how decisions on release are challenged.
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
How quickly should I call a lawyer after an arrest?
As soon as possible. The first hours often decide what statements are given.
Can my family contact the firm for me?
Yes. A relative can call or message us and we will advise what to do next.
Can detention be challenged?
In many cases yes, by applying for release or bail and presenting reasons. Outcomes depend on the facts.
Related guides
Bail
Applying for release, what conditions apply and what to do if bail is refused.
Read the guidePublic Prosecution
Prosecution investigations, summons, detention decisions and referral to court.
Read the guideTravel Bans & Arrest Warrants
Checking and challenging travel bans and arrest warrants, and what happens to your passport.
Read the guide