Criminal law in Dubai is federal UAE law, applied by Dubai's own public prosecution and courts. The same federal offences apply in every emirate, and they apply to residents, expats and tourists alike.
Where this fits: Applies at every stage: police, prosecution, court and appeal.
Who does UAE criminal law apply to?
It applies to anyone who commits an offence in the UAE, whatever their nationality or visa status.
In limited cases it can also reach conduct outside the UAE. Whether it does depends on the offence, so ask a lawyer before assuming either way.
What does a person have to do to be criminally liable?
Generally the law looks for a prohibited act or omission and the required mental element, such as intent or knowledge.
Some offences work differently. What the prosecution must prove, and how, depends on the specific offence.
What is a criminal record and why does it matter?
A conviction can be recorded and can affect employment, residence and travel.
How long it stays and whether it can be cleared depends on the current rules, so check before you rely on any assumption.
What should I do first?
Identify the exact allegation
Find out what offence is alleged and by whom. A vague allegation cannot be answered properly.
Do not discuss the case casually
Messages, calls and social media posts can become evidence.
Collect your documents
Passport, residence visa, summons, contracts, messages and receipts relevant to the allegation.
Speak to a criminal defence lawyer early
Early advice shapes what you say at the police and prosecution stages.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Topics in this area
Within dubai criminal law we cover:
- Criminal liability
- Criminal penalties
- Criminal records
- Deportation
Detailed guides
Criminal Liability
What the Crimes and Penalties Law requires for someone to be criminally liable, and the situations in which liability is removed or reduced.
Read the guideCriminal Penalties
The principal, accessory and complementary penalties in the Crimes and Penalties Law, and the ranges that apply unless a specific offence says otherwise.
Read the guideDeportation
When a court must or may order deportation, how it differs between ordinary crimes and drug offences, and the exception for family of UAE citizens.
Read the guideExpats and Tourists
Which UAE law applies to residents and visitors, what happens if the act was partly abroad, and the practical points that differ for foreigners.
Read the guideCriminal Records
How a conviction can be cleared under the Rehabilitation Law, how long it takes, which convictions need no rehabilitation and what the Police Clearance Certificate is.
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
Is UAE criminal law different in Dubai?
The offences are federal. Dubai has its own public prosecution and courts that apply them, so procedure in practice is Dubai-specific.
Can a tourist be charged with a crime in Dubai?
Yes. Being a visitor does not exempt anyone from UAE criminal law.
Does a conviction always lead to deportation?
No. Deportation is a possible consequence for non-citizens that the court may order, depending on the offence and the judgment.
Related guides
Criminal Case Process
What happens, in order, from the first investigation to the end of a criminal case.
Read the guideExpat & Tourist Criminal Cases
Criminal cases involving expats and visitors, and the effect on residence and travel.
Read the guideCriminal Courts
Hearings in the Court of First Instance, appeal and cassation, and how sentencing works.
Read the guide