Who issues a restraining order?
The Public Prosecution, on its own initiative or on a request from the social support centre, the Ministry, the competent authority or the victim (Article 8 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 (Protection Against Domestic Violence)), or the competent court, which can issue one while hearing any criminal case if it finds evidence of domestic violence (Article 10).
The request for a restraining order is exempt from court fees.
How long does it last?
A Public Prosecution order lasts up to 30 days and can be extended for two similar periods. After that the competent court may extend it for up to six months or until the judgment becomes final (Article 9).
A court order lasts up to six months or until the judgment is final, and after a final judgment the court may extend it for up to 12 months on the request of the Public Prosecution or the victim (Article 10).
What can the order include?
A ban on contacting the victim by any means, a ban on approaching listed places including the victim's home and workplace, referral of the victim to a shelter or relative with consent, an obligation on the offender to provide financial support and pay medical expenses, protection of the victim's property, counselling sessions and any other measure needed (Article 11).
Both offender and victim must be legally notified.
How do I challenge or what if I breach it?
Any stakeholder may appeal the order to the competent court to have it revoked or modified within seven days of becoming aware of it (Article 12).
Violating an order is punished by imprisonment and a fine of AED 5,000 to AED 10,000, or one of them, and by imprisonment of not less than six months and a fine of AED 10,000 to AED 100,000 if violence or coercion is involved (Article 23).
What should I do first?
Get the order in writing
Terms, dates and measures.
Obey it exactly
Even if the other party contacts you.
Diary seven days
That is the appeal deadline.
Ask your lawyer to apply for changes
Distances and times can be adjusted.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a prosecution restraining order last?
30 days, extendable for two similar periods, then by court order up to six months (Article 9).
Can I appeal a restraining order?
Yes, within seven days of becoming aware (Article 12).
What if the victim contacts me?
The order still binds you. Do not respond and tell your lawyer.
What is the penalty for breach?
Imprisonment and a fine of AED 5,000 to AED 10,000, or more if violence is involved (Article 23).
Related guides
Domestic Violence overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewDomestic Violence Law
What the 2024 domestic violence law covers, who counts as family, how reports are handled and the penalties, including when reconciliation is possible.
Read the guideStalking and Threats
How threats, persistent harassment, tracking and online extortion are punished under the Crimes and Cybercrimes Laws.
Read the guideSources
Source: Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 (Protection Against Domestic Violence), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active, in force from 16 September 2024. The Arabic text prevails over translations.
This page is general information, not legal advice.