When can a court judge me in my absence?
If a duly summoned party does not appear on the day set and is not represented by an attorney where the law allows it, the court adjudicates in absentia (Article 190 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 (Criminal Procedures Law)).
A felony defendant who fails to appear after being duly served with the decision to prosecute and the notice may be judged in absentia, or the court may adjourn and order re-service (Article 199).
What is a judgment treated as given in presence?
A judgment is deemed given in presence for all litigants who attended when the case was called, even if they left or missed later hearings (Article 191).
The court then examines the case as if the litigant were present (Article 192). The appeal period runs from service for the absent party (Article 235).
How do I challenge it?
For misdemeanours and infractions, by opposition within seven days from notification of the judgment, filed with the criminal clerks of the Public Prosecution in the court's jurisdiction. The case is then heard afresh, and the opposing party cannot be harmed by opposing (Article 229).
If the opposing party misses the first hearing, the opposition is void. For felonies, if the convict appears or is arrested, the case is re-heard (Article 204).
What are the risks of not attending?
A judgment in absentia is enforced as soon as it is given for all enforceable penalties and measures (Article 203).
That can mean arrest at an airport. If a defendant appears before the end of the hearing at which judgment is rendered, the case is heard again in their presence (Article 171).
What should I do first?
Never ignore a notice or hearing
Absence has serious consequences.
Send a lawyer with an excuse
An attorney or relative may excuse absence (Article 161).
Diary seven days for opposition
Misdemeanour judgments.
Check for a warrant before travel
Judgments are enforceable at once.
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Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to oppose a judgment in absentia?
Seven days from notification for misdemeanours and infractions (Article 229).
What if I was convicted in absentia of a felony?
If you appear or are arrested, the case is re-heard (Article 204).
Can the judgment be enforced immediately?
Yes, as soon as it is rendered (Article 203).
What if I arrive before the judgment?
The case is heard again in your presence (Article 171).
Related guides
Criminal Appeals overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewAppeal a Conviction
How an appeal is filed, what happens if you are in prison, and how an appeal differs from cassation.
Read the guideCriminal Trial
How a criminal trial runs in the UAE, who must attend, how witnesses are heard and how a judgment is reached.
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.