Police Encounters
Your rights during police stops, arrests, and criminal proceedings under Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021 and the Criminal Procedure Code.
Right to Know Charges Against You
If you are arrested or detained in the UAE, you have the right to be told why:The police must inform you of the charges or reasons for your arrest at the time of detention.The Public Prosecution must...
Right to Legal Representation
Everyone in the UAE has the right to a lawyer during criminal proceedings:You have the right to hire a lawyer of your choice at any stage of the investigation or trial.For serious crimes (felonies pun...
Right Against Arbitrary Detention (48-Hour Rule)
UAE law limits how long you can be held without charges:48-hour rule: Police must bring you before the Public Prosecution within 48 hours of your arrest.The Public Prosecution then decides whether to...
Rights During Police Stops & Searches
The law sets rules about when and how police can stop and search you:ID checks: Police can ask for your Emirates ID or passport at any time. You are required to carry identification.Search warrants: P...
Right to an Interpreter
Arabic is the official language of UAE courts and legal proceedings. If you do not speak Arabic, you have the right to language assistance:The Public Prosecution and courts must provide an interpreter...
Protection from Torture & Coercion
UAE law prohibits torture and forced confessions:Torture is a crime: Any government official who uses torture, force, or threats to extract a confession commits a criminal offence punishable by impris...
Right to Contact Embassy or Consulate
If you are a foreign national arrested or detained in the UAE, you have the right to contact your country's embassy or consulate:You have the right to notify your embassy or consulate of your arrest w...
Rights of Juveniles in Criminal Proceedings
Children and young people have special protections in the UAE criminal justice system:Age of criminal responsibility: Children under 12 years old cannot be held criminally responsible. For children ag...