What is a notice to appear?
Article 99 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 (Criminal Procedures Law) allows the Prosecutor, according to the circumstances, to issue a notice to appear or an arrest warrant, or to order that the accused be banned from travel.
Each must state the name, profession, nationality and residence of the accused, the charge, the date, the place and time of appearance, and the Prosecutor's name, signature and seal. The warrants are served by members of the public authority.
What happens if I do not attend?
Article 100 allows an arrest warrant where the accused fails to appear after being served a notice to appear without an acceptable excuse, is likely to escape or has no known residence.
A warrant is enforceable across the State and lapses six months after issue unless the Prosecutor extends it (Article 101). An acceptable excuse, such as illness or being abroad, should be put in writing before the date.
Should I attend alone?
No. Your attorney may attend the investigation with you and review the papers (Article 98).
Arrange this before the date. If you cannot attend, your lawyer should write to the prosecution explaining why.
Can a notice lead to a travel ban?
Yes. The same article lets the Prosecutor order a travel ban, circulated to all ports of the State.
That is why we advise checking your status before you plan travel after receiving any notice.
What should I do first?
Read the notice carefully
Place, date, time and charge.
Give it to your lawyer at once
They will contact the prosecution.
Write an excuse if you cannot attend
Before the date.
Do not travel until you have checked
A travel ban may exist.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Is a prosecution summons the same as a police summons?
No. A police summons is under Article 45 at a crime scene, and a notice to appear is issued by the Prosecutor under Article 99.
What if I miss the appointment?
An arrest warrant can be issued where the accused fails to appear without an acceptable excuse (Article 100).
How long does a warrant last?
Six months, unless extended by the Prosecutor (Article 101).
Can I send my lawyer instead?
Your lawyer can attend with you under Article 98, but the notice is addressed to you. Ask your lawyer to confirm in writing.
Related guides
Public Prosecution overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewProsecution Investigation
How the Public Prosecution questions the accused, records the investigation and decides the next step.
Read the guideArrest Warrants
Who can issue an arrest warrant, when the prosecution issues one, how long it lasts and how to find out whether one exists.
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.