The United Arab Emirates has established a comprehensive penal code that serves as the foundation for its criminal law. This legal framework plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order within the country while reflecting the cultural values and traditions of the UAE society. An understanding of the UAE’s penal code is essential for residents, visitors, and businesses operating in the nation to ensure compliance and avoid legal consequences. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the criminal law of the UAE, exploring the key aspects and provisions outlined in the penal code.

What is The Main Criminal Law Governing The UAE?

The UAE Penal Code, officially known as the Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 on Issuance of the Penal Code, recently updated in 2022 with Federal Law No. 31 of 2021, is based on a combination of Sharia (Islamic law) principles and contemporary legal practices. In addition to Islamic principles, the criminal process in Dubai draws regulation from the Criminal Procedures Law No 35 of 1991. This law directs the filing of criminal complaints, criminal investigations, trial processes, judgments, and appeals.

Основными участниками уголовного процесса в ОАЭ являются потерпевший/заявитель, обвиняемый/подсудимый, полиция, прокуратура и суды. Уголовные процессы обычно начинаются, когда жертва подает жалобу на обвиняемого в местный полицейский участок. Полиция обязана расследовать предполагаемые правонарушения, а государственный обвинитель предъявляет обвиняемому обвинение в суде.

Судебная система ОАЭ включает три основных суда:

Суд первой инстанции: Все уголовные дела, только что возбужденные, поступают в этот суд. Суд состоит из одного судьи, который слушает дело и выносит решение. Однако трое судей слушают и выносят решение по делу о тяжком преступлении (которое влечет за собой суровые наказания). На данном этапе не допускается рассмотрение дела судом присяжных.
Апелляционный суд: после вынесения решения судом первой инстанции любая из сторон может подать апелляцию в апелляционный суд. Обратите внимание, что этот суд не рассматривает дело заново. Ему нужно только определить, была ли ошибка в решении суда низшей инстанции.
Кассационный суд: Любое лицо, недовольное решением Апелляционного суда, может подать апелляцию в Кассационный суд. Это решение суда является окончательным.

Если признан виновным в совершении преступления, понимание Процесс апелляций по уголовным делам в ОАЭ важно. Опытный адвокат по апелляциям по уголовным делам может помочь определить основания для обжалования приговора или приговора.

What are the key principles and provisions of the UAE’s Penal Code?

The UAE Penal Code (Federal Law No. 3 of 1987) is based on a combination of Sharia (Islamic law) principles and contemporary legal concepts. It aims to maintain law and order while preserving the cultural and religious values of the UAE society, as per the general principles outlined in Article 1.

Principles Derived from Sharia Law

Prohibitions on activities like gambling, alcohol consumption, illicit sexual relations
Hudud crimes like theft and adultery have Sharia-prescribed punishments e.g. amputation, stoning
Retributive “eye for an eye” justice for crimes like murder and bodily harm

Contemporary Legal Principles

Codification and standardization of laws across emirates
Clearly defined crimes, penalties, statutory limitations
Due process, presumption of innocence, right to counsel

Ключевые положения

Crimes against state security – treason, terrorism, etc.
Crimes against individuals – murder, assault, defamation, honor crimes
Financial crimes – fraud, breach of trust, counterfeiting, money laundering
Cybercrimes – hacking, online fraud, illegal content
Public safety, moral crimes, prohibited activities

The Penal Code blends Sharia and contemporary principles, though some provisions face human rights criticism. Consulting local legal experts is recommended.

Criminal Law vs Criminal Procedure Law in the UAE

Criminal Law defines the substantive rules that establish what constitutes a crime and prescribe the punishment or penalty to be imposed for proven offenses. It is covered under the UAE Penal Code (Federal Law No. 3 of 1987).

Ключевые аспекты:

Categories and classifications of crimes
Elements that must be proven for an act to qualify as a crime
The punishment or sentence corresponding to each crime

For example, the Penal Code defines murder as a criminal offense and specifies the punishment for someone convicted of murder.

Criminal Procedure Law, on the other hand, establishes the procedural rules and processes for enforcing the substantive criminal laws. It is outlined in the UAE Criminal Procedure Law (Federal Law No. 35 of 1992).

Ключевые аспекты:

Powers and limitations of law enforcement in investigations
Procedures for arrest, detention, and charging an accused
Rights and protections afforded to the accused
Conducting trials and court proceedings
The appeals process after a judgment

For instance, it lays down rules for collecting evidence, the process of charging someone, conducting a fair trial, and the appeals mechanism.

While criminal law defines what a crime is, criminal procedure law ensures those substantive laws are implemented properly through an established judicial process, from investigation to prosecution and trials.

The former outlines legal consequences, the latter enables enforcement of those laws.

Классификация правонарушений и преступлений в уголовном праве ОАЭ

Прежде чем подавать заявление о возбуждении уголовного дела, необходимо ознакомиться с видами правонарушений и преступлений в соответствии с законодательством ОАЭ. Выделяют три основных вида правонарушений и наказания за них:

Правонарушения (нарушения): Это наименее суровая категория или незначительное преступление среди правонарушений в ОАЭ. Они включают в себя любое действие или бездействие, которое влечет за собой наказание или штраф в размере не более 10 дней тюремного заключения или максимальный штраф в размере 1,000 дирхамов.
проступки: A misdemeanor is punishable with confinement, a fine of 1,000 to 10,000 dirhams at most, or deportation. The offence or penalty may also attract Дийят, исламская выплата «кровавых денег».
фелоний: это самые тяжкие преступления в соответствии с законодательством ОАЭ, и они наказываются максимум пожизненным заключением, смертной казнью или Дийят.

How Are Criminal Laws Enforced in The UAE?

Criminal laws in the UAE are enforced through the combined efforts of law enforcement agencies, the public prosecution, and the judicial system, as outlined in the UAE Criminal Procedure Law. The process typically begins with an investigation conducted by police authorities upon receiving information about a potential crime. They have the power to summon individuals, collect evidence, make arrests, and refer cases to the public prosecution.

The public prosecution then reviews the evidence and decides whether to press formal charges or dismiss the case. If charges are filed, the case proceeds to trial in the relevant court – the Court of First Instance for felonies and misdemeanors, and the Court of Misdemeanors for lesser offenses. Trials are overseen by judges who evaluate the evidence and testimonies presented by the prosecution and defense.

After the court issues a judgment, both the convicted person and the prosecution reserve the right to appeal to higher courts like the Court of Appeal and then the Court of Cassation. The enforcement of final verdicts and sentences is carried out through the police, public prosecution, and the prison system in the UAE.

What is The Process For Reporting A Crime in The UAE?

When a crime occurs in the UAE, the first step is to file a complaint with the police at the nearest station, preferably close to where the incident took place. This can be done either orally or in writing, but the complaint must clearly detail the events that constitute the alleged criminal offense.

The police will have the complainant provide their statement, which is recorded in Arabic and must be signed. Additionally, UAE law allows complainants to call witnesses who can corroborate their account and lend credibility to the allegations. Having witnesses provide supplementary context can greatly aid the subsequent criminal investigation.

Once a complaint is filed, the relevant authorities commence an investigation to verify the claims and attempt to identify and locate potential suspects. Depending on the nature of the crime, this could involve legal officers from the police, immigration officials, coast guards, municipality inspectors, border patrol, and other law enforcement agencies.

A key part of the investigation is interrogating any identified suspects and taking their statements. The suspects also have the right to present their own witnesses to support their version of events. Authorities collect and analyze all available evidence such as documents, photos/videos, forensics, and witness testimony.

If the investigation finds sufficient evidence of a criminal act, the public prosecutor then decides whether to press formal charges. If charges are filed, the case proceeds to the UAE courts as per the Criminal Procedure Law.

At this stage, those looking to pursue a criminal case against another party should take certain steps in addition to the police complaint:

Obtain a medical report documenting any injuries
Gather other evidence like insurance records and witness statements
Consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer

If the prosecutor moves forward with charges, the complainant may need to file a civil lawsuit to have the criminal case heard in court.

О каких преступлениях можно сообщать?

В полицию ОАЭ можно сообщить о следующих преступлениях:

Особо жестокое убийство
Убийство
Изнасилование
Сексуальное домогательство
Кража со взломом
Кража
растрата
Случаи, связанные с дорожным движением
подлог
фальшивомонетчество
Наркотики
Любое другое преступление или деятельность, нарушающие закон

В случае инцидентов, связанных с безопасностью или преследованием, с полицией можно связаться напрямую через их службу Aman по телефону 8002626 или с помощью SMS на номер 8002828. Кроме того, люди могут сообщать о преступлениях в Интернете через Сайт полиции Абу-Даби или в любом отделении Департамента уголовных расследований (CID) в Дубае.

What Are The Procedures For Criminal Investigations And Trials in The UAE?

Criminal investigations in the UAE are governed by the Criminal Procedure Law and overseen by the public prosecution. When a crime is reported, the police and other law enforcement agencies conduct an initial investigation to gather evidence. This can involve:

Questioning suspects, victims, and witnesses
Collecting physical evidence, documents, recordings etc.
Conducting searches, seizures, and forensic analysis
Working with experts and consultants as needed

The findings are presented to the public prosecution, who reviews the evidence and decides whether to press charges or dismiss the case. The Public Prosecutor will invite and separately interview the complainant and suspect to ascertain their stories. At this stage, either party may produce witnesses to verify their account and help the Public Prosecutor determine if a charge is necessary. Statements at this stage are also made or translated into Arabic and signed by both parties. If charges are filed, the prosecution prepares the case for trial.

Criminal trials in the UAE take place in the courts under the purview of judges. The process typically involves:

The charges being read out by the prosecution
The defendant entering a plea of guilty or not guilty
The prosecution and defense presenting their evidence and arguments
Examination of witnesses from both sides
Closing statements from prosecution and defense

The judge(s) then deliberate in private and issue a reasoned judgment – acquitting the defendant if not convinced of guilt beyond reasonable doubt or issuing a conviction and sentence if they find the defendant guilty based on the evidence.

Both the convicted person and prosecution have the right to appeal to higher courts against the judgment or sentence. The appeals courts review the case records and may uphold or overturn the lower court’s decision.

Throughout the process, certain rights such as presumption of innocence, access to legal counsel, and standards of evidence and proof must be upheld as per UAE law. Criminal courts handle cases ranging from minor offenses to serious crimes like financial fraud, cybercrimes, and violence.

Можно ли возбудить уголовное дело, если виновного не найти?

Да, в некоторых случаях возможно возбуждение уголовного дела, даже если преступник не может быть установлен. Предположим, жертва собрала доказательства того, как они получили травмы, и может предоставить четкие документы о том, когда и где произошел инцидент. В этом случае можно будет возбудить уголовное дело.

What Are The Legal Rights Of Victims Under UAE’s Criminal Law?

The UAE takes measures to protect and uphold the rights of crime victims during the legal process. Key rights afforded to victims under the UAE Criminal Procedure Law and other regulations include:

Right to File a Criminal Complaint Victims have the right to report crimes and initiate legal proceedings against perpetrators
Rights During Investigation

Right to have complaints promptly and thoroughly investigated
Right to provide evidence and witness testimony
Right to participate in certain investigative measures

Rights During Trial

Right to access legal counsel and representation
Right to attend court hearings unless excluded for reasons
Right to review/comment on evidence submitted

Right to Seek Damages/Compensation

Right to claim compensation from perpetrators for damages, injuries, medical expenses and other quantifiable losses
Victims can also seek reimbursement for travel and other expenses but not for wages/income lost due to time spent attending court proceedings

Rights Related to Privacy, Safety and Support

Right to have identities protected and kept confidential if required
Right to protection measures for victims of crimes like human trafficking, violence etc.
Access to victim support services, shelters, counseling and financial aid funds

The UAE has established mechanisms for victims to claim damages and compensation through civil lawsuits against perpetrators. Additionally, victims have the right to legal assistance and can appoint lawyers or have legal aid assigned. Support entities also provide free advice and counsel.

Overall, UAE laws aim to safeguard victims’ rights to privacy, prevent re-victimization, ensure safety, enable compensation claims, and provide rehabilitation services during the criminal justice process.

Какова роль защитника в уголовных делах?

Защитник несет ответственность за защиту правонарушителя в суде. Они могут оспаривать доказательства, представленные прокурором, и настаивать на освобождении преступника или смягчении приговора.

Вот некоторые из обязанностей, которые адвокат по уголовным делам играет в уголовных делах:

Адвокат защиты может выступать от имени правонарушителя в судебном заседании.
Если дело заканчивается обвинительным приговором, адвокат будет работать с ответчиком, чтобы определить соответствующее наказание и представить смягчающие обстоятельства для смягчения приговора.
При заключении сделки о признании вины с обвинением защитник может представить рекомендацию о смягчении наказания.
Адвокат защиты несет ответственность за представление подсудимого в слушаниях по вынесению приговора.

Какова роль судебных доказательств в уголовных делах?

Судебно-медицинские доказательства часто используются в уголовных делах для установления фактов происшествия. Это может включать доказательства ДНК, отпечатки пальцев, баллистические доказательства и другие виды научных доказательств.

Какова роль полиции в уголовных делах?

При поступлении жалобы полиция направляет ее в соответствующие отделы (отдел судебной медицины, отдел электронных преступлений и т. д.) для рассмотрения.

Затем полиция передаст жалобу в прокуратуру, где прокурору будет поручено рассмотреть ее в соответствии с Уголовным кодексом ОАЭ.

Полиция также расследует жалобу и соберет доказательства в поддержку дела. Они также могут арестовывать и задерживать правонарушителя.

Какова роль прокурора в уголовных делах?

Когда жалоба передается в прокуратуру, для ее рассмотрения назначается прокурор. Затем прокурор принимает решение о возбуждении уголовного дела. Они также могут отказаться от дела, если для его подтверждения недостаточно доказательств.

Прокурор также будет работать с полицией для расследования жалобы и сбора доказательств. Они также могут арестовывать и задерживать правонарушителя.

Какова роль адвоката потерпевшего в уголовных делах?

В некоторых случаях правонарушитель может быть осужден и приговорен к выплате компенсации потерпевшему. Адвокат жертвы будет работать с судом во время вынесения приговора или позже, чтобы собрать доказательства, чтобы определить, есть ли у правонарушителя финансовые возможности для выплаты компенсации жертве.

Адвокат потерпевшего может также представлять его интересы в гражданских исках против правонарушителей.

Если вас обвиняют в совершении преступления, необходимо обратиться за услугами адвоката по уголовным делам. Они смогут проконсультировать вас о ваших правах и представлять вас в суде.

How Does The UAE’s Criminal law Handle Cases Involving Foreigners Or Visitors?

The United Arab Emirates enforces its comprehensive legal system equally on citizens and non-citizens for any criminal offenses committed within its borders. Foreign nationals, expatriate residents, and visitors are all subject to the UAE’s criminal laws and judicial processes without exception.

If accused of a crime in the UAE, foreigners will go through arrest, charges, and prosecution via the local courts where the alleged offense occurred. Proceedings are in Arabic, with translation provided if needed. The same standards of evidence, legal representation provisions, and sentencing guidelines apply regardless of one’s nationality or residency status.

It’s crucial for foreigners to understand that actions acceptable elsewhere may constitute crimes in the UAE due to differences in laws and cultural norms. Ignorance of the law does not excuse criminal behavior.

Embassies may offer consular assistance, but the UAE maintains full authority over prosecution of foreign defendants. Respecting local laws is a must for visitors and residents alike.

Moreover, foreigners should note that they may face detention during investigations, with pre-trial procedures and rights to understand. Court cases can also experience lengthy delays impacting one’s stay. Uniquely, double jeopardy principles from other nations may not apply – the UAE could retry someone for an offense they faced prosecution for elsewhere previously.

Что делать, если жертва находится в другой стране?

Если жертва не находится в ОАЭ, она все равно может предоставить доказательства в поддержку уголовного дела. Это можно сделать с помощью видеоконференций, онлайн-показаний и других методов сбора доказательств.

How Can One Check The Status Of A Criminal Case Or Police Complaint in The UAE?

The method for tracking the progress of a criminal matter or police complaint filed in the United Arab Emirates varies based on the emirate where the case originated. The two most populous emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have distinct approaches.

Дубай

In Dubai, residents can utilize an online portal created by the Dubai Police force that allows case status checks by simply entering the reference number. However, if this digital service is inaccessible, alternative contact options like:

The police call center
Эл. адрес
Website/app live chat

Абу Даби

On the other hand, Abu Dhabi takes a different route by offering a dedicated case tracking service through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s website. To use this, one must first register for an account using their Emirates ID number and date of birth before gaining access to view case details online.

Общие советы

No matter which emirate is involved, retaining the specific case reference number is vital for any online inquiry about its status and progress.

If the digital options are unavailable or experiencing technical difficulties, directly contacting either the original police station where the complaint was filed or the judicial authorities overseeing the case can provide the necessary updates.

It’s important to note that while these online tracking services aim to increase transparency, they are still evolving systems that may encounter limitations periodically. Traditional channels of communication with law enforcement and the courts remain reliable alternatives.

How Does the UAE’s Criminal Law Handle Arbitration or Alternative Dispute Resolution?

The UAE criminal law system primarily deals with prosecution of criminal offenses through the court system. However, it does allow for arbitration and alternative dispute resolution methods in certain cases before formal charges are brought.

For minor criminal complaints, police authorities may first attempt to resolve the matter through mediation between the parties involved. If a settlement is reached, the case can be closed without proceeding to trial. This is commonly used for issues like bounced cheques, minor assaults, or other misdemeanors.

Binding arbitration is also recognized for certain civil matters that have criminal implications, such as labor disputes or commercial conflicts. An appointed arbitration panel can render a decision that is legally enforceable. But for more serious criminal allegations, the case will go through the standard prosecution channels in the UAE courts.

Why Do You Need A Local Specialized And Experienced Criminal Lawyer

Facing criminal charges in the United Arab Emirates demands specialist legal expertise that only a local, seasoned criminal lawyer can provide. The UAE’s unique legal system, blending civil and Sharia laws, requires in-depth knowledge that comes from years of experience working within its judicial processes. A lawyer based in the Emirates understands the nuances that international practitioners may overlook.

More than just comprehending the laws, a local criminal lawyer serves as an invaluable guide for navigating the UAE’s courts. They are well-versed in the protocols, procedures and dynamics of the justice system. Their linguistic proficiency in Arabic ensures accurate translation of documents and clear communication during hearings. Aspects like these can be critical advantages.

Additionally, UAE lawyers with established careers often possess connections, reputation and a deep cultural understanding – assets that can benefit a client’s case strategy. They grasp how the society’s customs and values interplay with the laws. This context informs how they construct legal defenses and negotiate for favorable resolutions with authorities.

From managing different criminal charges to handling evidence properly, a specialized local criminal lawyer has honed tactics specific to the UAE Courts. Their strategic representation draws from direct experience uniquely relevant to your situation. While all legal counsel is important when accused, having an advocate deeply ensconced in UAE criminal law can make a pivotal difference.

Независимо от того, были ли вы расследованы, арестованы или обвинены в совершении уголовного преступления в Объединенных Арабских Эмиратах, очень важно иметь адвоката, который понимает законы страны. Ваш юридический консультация с нами поможет нам понять вашу ситуацию и проблемы. Свяжитесь с нами, чтобы назначить встречу. Позвоните нам сейчас для Срочная запись и встреча по телефону +971506531334 +971558018669