The duration for which you can be detained at Dubai Airport can vary significantly based on the circumstances of your detention and the nature of the offense.
Customs and Security Checks: If you are detained for routine customs or security checks, the duration can be relatively short, typically lasting a few hours. This is common if there are questions about your documentation, luggage, or if you are carrying items that require further inspection.
The duration of detention at Dubai Airport can range from a few hours for minor issues to several months for serious legal matters. It is essential to be aware of local laws, remain calm, and seek legal assistance promptly if detained.
In Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the maximum duration of police custody without charge is 48 hours. During this period, the suspect can be interrogated, and evidence can be collected. If authorities believe that a longer detention is necessary, they must obtain an order from a judge, which can extend the detention by an additional 24 hours with the authorization of the Public Prosecutor.
Legal Issues: If you are detained due to more serious legal issues, such as possession of banned substances, insulting behavior, or immigration offenses, the detention can last much longer. For example, cases involving drug possession or other serious offenses can lead to detentions lasting several weeks or even months while the legal process is underway
Severe Crimes: For severe crimes such as terrorism, drug trafficking, or organized crime, the detention period can be extended further, up to 21 days with judicial authorization
