How is a request made?
In writing, through diplomatic channels, to the Central Authority, with Arabic translations signed and stamped by the requesting state's Central Authority.
Article 11 lists the papers: the person's description, the legal text and penalty, the international arrest warrant, a statement of facts and, for a convicted person, the judgment and proof it is enforceable.
What happens after the request arrives?
The Central Authority checks the formal requirements and refers it to the competent Public Prosecution, and may ask the requesting state for more information within a time limit.
Under Article 12 it may dismiss the request if the information is not provided.
What happens before the court?
Within 15 days of reviewing the request, the Attorney General sends it with a memorandum to the competent court, which hears it in closed session with the Public Prosecution and the person and their lawyer.
The court gives a reasoned decision on eligibility for extradition (Articles 18 to 20).
What should I do first?
Confirm how the request reached the UAE
A request comes through diplomatic channels to the Central Authority. Ask when and by whom it was sent.
Check the papers against Article 11
Warrant, statement of facts, legal text and an Arabic translation signed and stamped by the requesting state.
Diary the 15-day referral period
The Attorney General must send the request to the court within 15 days of reviewing it.
Attend every summons
The Public Prosecution summons you to the hearing, and missing it harms your position.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
Is the hearing public?
No. Article 19 says the court hears the request in closed session.
Can the same state ask again?
Yes, on new grounds. Article 25 says a refusal does not preclude a further decision on a subsequent request from the same state for the same offences when new grounds are asserted.
Related guides
Extradition Cases overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewExtradition Defence
What an extradition defence covers in the UAE, from the first questioning to the court hearing and the Minister's decision.
Read the guideExtradition Arrests and Bail
When a person can be arrested on a foreign request, how long they can be held, and when release is possible.
Read the guideSources
Source: Federal Law No. 39 of 2006 (International Judicial Cooperation in Criminal Matters), official English text on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 15 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.