Protection from Torture & Coercion
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
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 imprisonment.
- Forced confessions are void: Any statement or confession obtained through torture, coercion, or threats is not valid evidence and must be thrown out by the court.
- Physical and psychological abuse: Both physical violence and psychological pressure (threats against you or your family) are prohibited.
- Medical examination: You have the right to a medical examination if you claim you were mistreated during detention.
When does it apply?
- You are detained, arrested, or being interrogated by any law enforcement authority in the UAE.
- This protection applies to everyone — citizens, residents, and visitors.
- It covers all forms of physical and psychological mistreatment.
What should you do?
- If you are mistreated, request a medical examination as soon as possible and insist it be documented.
- Tell your lawyer immediately — they can file a complaint and request that any coerced statements be excluded from your case.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if you are a foreign national experiencing mistreatment.
- Document injuries — if you can, note dates, times, and descriptions of what happened.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not sign a confession obtained through force — tell the Public Prosecution it was coerced.
- Do not stay silent about mistreatment — raise it at your first appearance before the Public Prosecution or judge.
- Do not retaliate against officers — report the abuse through proper legal channels.
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