Can expats and visitors get bail?
The bail rules in the Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 (Criminal Procedures Law) do not distinguish by nationality. Article 109 allows release on a personal guarantee, a bail bond or with a travel ban for the accused.
In practice, authorities pay close attention to the risk that a person who is not resident will leave. Strong ties to the UAE and a clear plan to attend every hearing help, and a travel ban is the usual safeguard.
Can someone else pay my bail?
Yes. Article 110 says bail can be paid by the accused or any third party by depositing the amount with the court treasury, or it can take the form of an undertaking by a solvent person to pay it if the accused fails to meet the release conditions.
The undertaking is recorded in the investigation report and has the force of a writ of execution. That is how many visitors and expats arrange bail through an employer, a friend or a relative.
What happens to my passport and travel?
A travel ban circulated to all ports is a form of release under Article 109. It stops you leaving the UAE while the case is open.
Applying later to change the condition is possible. The Prosecutor may change, replace or overturn a bail condition (Article 109(2)).
What happens if I leave anyway?
You lose the bail amount without a court judgment (Article 111), a new arrest warrant can be issued (Article 112), and the case can proceed in your absence.
A judgment in absentia is enforceable immediately (Article 203). Do not leave without advice.
What should I do first?
Find a surety early
Employer, relative or friend with the means.
Gather proof of ties to the UAE
Visa, tenancy, employment, family.
Agree to the travel ban if needed
It can be revisited later.
Plan hearing attendance
Including how you will travel back if you are abroad.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Can a tourist get bail?
The law allows release on bail for the accused (Article 109). A travel ban usually applies.
Can my employer guarantee me?
A solvent person may give an undertaking to pay the bail amount if you fail the conditions (Article 110).
Can I leave while on bail?
Not if there is a travel ban. Leaving without permission forfeits the bail (Article 111).
Do I get my money back?
Bail is refunded in full if a non-suit order is issued or you are found innocent (Article 111(2)).
Related guides
Bail overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewBail Conditions
The conditions that can be attached to bail, how the amount is set and what happens if you breach a condition.
Read the guideBail Refusal
What to do when bail is refused or detention is extended, who can challenge it and within what time.
Read the guideSources
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.