A police complaint starts an investigation. If you are summoned, you are being asked to attend and give your account. You should understand what you are being asked about before you say anything.
Where this fits: Police stage.
What should I do if I receive a police summons?
Do not ignore it.
Find out what it concerns, and speak to a lawyer before you attend if you can. Take your ID and any documents relevant to the matter.
What happens when a complaint is filed against me?
The police record the complaint, collect evidence and may summon you for a statement.
They may then refer the file to the public prosecution.
What if the complaint is false?
A false complaint can itself be an offence.
A lawyer can advise on responding to it and on whether to take action against the complainant.
What should I do first?
Read the summons carefully
Note the station, date, time and reference.
Ask for an interpreter if needed
Do not answer or sign anything you do not fully understand.
Prepare your account with a lawyer
Be accurate and consistent. Do not guess.
Keep copies
Of the summons, any statement you are given and all related messages.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Topics in this area
Within police complaints we cover:
- File a complaint
- Police investigation
- Police summons
- False complaint
Detailed guides
Police Summons
Who can summon you, what happens if you do not attend, and how a prosecution notice to appear differs from a police summons.
Read the guideFile a Complaint
Where a criminal complaint is filed, who may file it, what it should say and the three-month deadline for some offences.
Read the guidePolice Investigation
The powers and limits of the judicial police during an investigation, and what you should expect at each step.
Read the guideFalse Complaint
What the law says about knowingly false reports, the penalties and how a falsely accused person can claim compensation.
Read the guideCheck a Police Case
How to track a request or complaint with Dubai Police using the official Application Status service, and what to do when you cannot find your case.
Read the guideFrequently asked questions
Can I refuse to go to the police station after a summons?
Ignoring a summons can make things worse, including leading to further action. Speak to a lawyer about how to respond.
Do I need a lawyer to give a statement?
It is not always required, but advice beforehand is strongly sensible because the statement is recorded and used.
Can a police complaint be cancelled?
Sometimes, depending on the offence and whether the complainant withdraws. It is not automatic.
Related guides
Public Prosecution
Prosecution investigations, summons, detention decisions and referral to court.
Read the guideArrest & Detention
What happens after an arrest, your rights, pre-trial detention and release.
Read the guideOffences Against Justice
False reports, perjury, obstruction of justice and resisting arrest.
Read the guide