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Bail Conditions in the UAE: Guarantees, Bonds and Breaches

The conditions that can be attached to bail, how the amount is set and what happens if you breach a condition.

Last updated 9 October 2026. Statutes checked against the official text.

Advocate Amal Khamis
Speak to a lawyerAdvocate Amal KhamisCriminal defence, AK Criminal Lawyers

What conditions can be attached?

Under Article 109 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 (Criminal Procedures Law), release can be on a personal guarantee, on a bail bond or with a travel ban, and the amount of bail is set by the Public Prosecution or the judge.

The amount serves as an adequate penalty if the accused fails to appear at any stage, and ensures the accused does not evade the judgment and performs the other duties prescribed by law.

What happens if I cannot provide a guarantee or bond?

The Prosecutor may change, replace or overturn the bail condition, or order that you be held or continue to be held in custody (Article 109(2)).

That is why we prepare alternatives in advance, such as a different surety or a different amount.

What if I break a condition?

If you fail without an acceptable excuse to fulfil your obligations, the bail amount becomes the property of the government without a court judgment (Article 111(1)).

A new arrest warrant can also be issued if you fail the duties imposed on you (Article 112).

Do bail conditions continue after conviction?

If a convict is released on bail and appeals, the court of appeal may release them on an undertaking or any other security it sets until the appeal is decided (Article 234(3)).

A convict who is imprisoned loses the appeal if they fail to surrender for enforcement before the appeal hearing (Article 238).

What should I do first?

  1. Get the conditions in writing

    Amount, form, travel ban and duties.

  2. Diary every date

    Missing a hearing is the most common breach.

  3. Tell your lawyer before any change

    Residence, work and contact details.

  4. Keep proof of attendance

    Hearing notices and receipts.

Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.

Frequently asked questions

Can bail include a travel ban?

Yes (Article 109(1)).

What if I miss a hearing?

Without an acceptable excuse, the bail is forfeited to the government without a court judgment (Article 111(1)).

Who sets the amount?

The Public Prosecution or the judge (Article 109(1)).

Can conditions be changed?

The Prosecutor may change, replace or overturn the bail condition (Article 109(2)).

Related guides

Sources

Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 (Criminal Procedures Law), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active and last updated on 28 September 2023. The Arabic text prevails over translations.

This page is general information, not legal advice.

If you or someone close to you is under investigation, speak to us early.

Call or message us at any hour. Tell us what has happened and where the case is. We will explain the next step.