Protection from Torture & Coercion in UAE
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
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 under the Penal Code.
- Forced confessions are void: Any statement or confession obtained through torture, coercion, or threats is inadmissible — the court must throw it out.
- Physical and psychological abuse: Both physical violence and psychological pressure (threats against you or your family) are prohibited during detention and interrogation.
- Medical examination: You have the right to a medical examination if you claim you were mistreated during detention.
- The Public Prosecution has a supervisory role over detention conditions and must investigate any claims of mistreatment brought to its attention.
When does it apply?
- You are detained, arrested, or being interrogated by any law enforcement authority in the UAE.
- This protection applies to everyone — UAE nationals, residents, and visitors regardless of the alleged offence.
- It covers all forms of physical and psychological mistreatment at any stage of detention.
What to Do If You Are Mistreated or Coerced While Detained in the UAE
- If you are mistreated, request a medical examination as soon as possible and insist it be documented in writing.
- Tell your lawyer immediately — they can file a complaint with the Public Prosecution and request that any coerced statements be excluded from your case.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if you are a foreign national experiencing mistreatment — consular staff can visit you in detention and formally raise concerns.
- Document injuries — if you can, note dates, times, and descriptions of what happened.
- You can also report mistreatment anonymously through the Al Ameen service (8002626).
What should you NOT do?
- Do not sign a confession obtained through force — tell the Public Prosecution it was coerced at your first opportunity.
- Do not stay silent about mistreatment — raise it at your first appearance before the Public Prosecution or judge so it is part of the official record.
- Do not retaliate against officers — report the abuse through proper legal channels. Assaulting a public official is a serious offence that can lead to additional charges and deportation for expats.
Common Questions
When does it apply — protection from torture & coercion?
You are detained, arrested, or being interrogated by any law enforcement authority in the UAE.This protection applies to everyone — UAE nationals, residents, and visitors regardless of the alleged offence.It covers all forms of physical and psychological mistreatment at any stage of detention.
What should I do if I am being mistreated or pressured to confess while detained in the UAE?
If you are mistreated, request a medical examination as soon as possible and insist it be documented in writing.Tell your lawyer immediately — they can file a complaint with the Public Prosecution and request that any coerced statements be excluded from your case.Contact your embassy or consulate if you are a foreign national experiencing mistreatment — consular staff can visit you in detention and formally raise concerns.Document injuries — if you can, note dates, times, and descriptions of what happened.You can also report mistreatment anonymously through the Al Ameen service (8002626).
What should you NOT do — protection from torture & coercion?
Do not sign a confession obtained through force — tell the Public Prosecution it was coerced at your first opportunity.Do not stay silent about mistreatment — raise it at your first appearance before the Public Prosecution or judge so it is part of the official record.Do not retaliate against officers — report the abuse through proper legal channels. Assaulting a public official is a serious offence that can lead to additional charges and deportation for expats.