Here’s the truth: if you’ve been harmed by a crime in Dubai, the law gives you more than sympathy—it gives you structured ways to reclaim losses and be made whole. That includes restitution (returning what was taken) and compensation (money for the harm you suffered).
The Big Picture (and why it matters)
Dubai blends Sharia-based concepts like diya with modern criminal and civil remedies so victims aren’t left patching things together on their own. The system is designed to restore what you lost, acknowledge your harm, and reinforce justice.
Honestly, I get asked two questions all the time: How do I get my money back? and Do I need a separate lawsuit? Let’s tackle both—clearly and step by step.
What Restitution Actually Covers
Restitution is ordered by the criminal court when the accused is convicted. Think of it as “put it back”—returning funds or property gained through the crime, paid to whoever suffered the loss (individual or the state). Courts in Dubai apply this across offenses like embezzlement and fraud.
Bottom line: if the crime put money in the offender’s pocket or took it from yours, restitution aims to reverse that.
Criminal Compensation: Beyond “return what you took”
Now, restitution doesn’t cover everything. What about hospital bills, missed paychecks, or the anxiety that keeps you up at night? That’s where criminal injury compensation comes in—requested inside the criminal case. It can include:
- Medical and rehab costs
- Lost wages and livelihood impact
- Psychological harm (PTSD, anxiety, trauma)
- Property damage and other economic loss
Courts assess the seriousness and long-term effects when calculating amounts. If the number needs deeper analysis, the issue can move to civil court for final assessment.
Diya (Blood Money): When there’s injury or loss of life
When a crime causes death or physical injury, courts may order diya—a fixed compensation typically AED 200,000, paid to the deceased’s family or injured party. It can replace retribution (qisas) if forgiveness is granted, and judges can adjust amounts based on context.
Other Avenues You Should Know About
- Victims of human trafficking can obtain restitution via criminal proceedings or file separate compensation suits.
- Insurance claims or government programs may supplement court awards in some cases.
How to File a Criminal Compensation Claim (Step-by-Step)
I always recommend organizing your documents early—it speeds everything up. Here’s the path most victims follow in Dubai’s system:
- Report the Crime (Police)
Go to the station where the incident occurred. Your complaint can be oral or written—be clear, factual, and list evidence/witnesses. - Investigation & Prosecution (Public Prosecution)
Police collect evidence and refer the case. You may give additional statements and submit medical or financial records. - Attach Your Compensation Claim (Criminal Case)
You (or your lawyer) file a civil compensation request inside the criminal matter, specifying damages and attaching proof:- Medical/hospital records
- Police & forensic reports
- Salary slips showing wage loss
- Repair/replacement invoices
- Witness statements
- Criminal Court Proceedings
The Court of First Instance evaluates guilt and your compensation claim together. If liability is proven, the court can award compensation; if details are complex, the judge can refer compensation to the civil court. - Judgment & Enforcement
If compensation is granted but unpaid, you can open execution proceedings with Dubai Courts to collect.
Key notes: claims can cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property loss; Arabic pleadings are technical, so legal representation helps; there are no fees to file a police complaint, but court fees apply later; and you can still pursue a separate civil suit if compensation remains unresolved.
Quick Reference Tables
Remedies at a Glance
- Restitution — Penal Code Arts. 228–230 — return money/property from the crime — paid to the victim or state.
- Criminal Injury Compensation — Criminal Procedure Law No. 35 (1992) — physical, psychological, property, and financial damages — paid to the victim.
- Diya (Blood Money) — Penal Code Arts. 383–389 — standard AED 200,000 for death/injury — paid to the family.
Process Snapshot
- Complaint → Police (ID, proof)
- Investigation → Public Prosecution (evidence, witnesses)
- Compensation Filing → Criminal Court (reports, losses, costs)
- Judgment → Court of First Instance (award or refer)
- Execution → Dubai Courts (enforce payment)
Final Word
If you’re a victim, you’re not powerless. Dubai’s system gives you multiple routes—restitution, compensation, and diya—to put your life back on track. Start documenting, file early, and use the process to your advantage.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for actions taken based on its contents. For advice on your specific situation, consult a qualified lawyer.
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