Right Against Arbitrary Detention (48-Hour Rule) 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 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 release you, extend detention, or formally charge you.
- Detention extensions: The Public Prosecution can extend detention for up to 14 days at a time. Further extensions require a court order.
- Maximum pre-trial detention: You cannot be held in pre-trial detention for more than the maximum sentence for the crime you are accused of.
- You have the right to challenge your detention before a judge at any point.
- Note that drug-related arrests under Federal Law No. 14 of 1995 (Counter-Narcotics) may involve longer investigative detention periods due to the severity of penalties (which can include life imprisonment).
When does it apply?
- You are arrested and held by police or security forces in any emirate.
- This applies to all people in the UAE, including citizens, residents, and tourists.
- The 48-hour rule runs from the moment of arrest, not from when you arrive at the police station.
What to Do If You Are Held in the UAE Beyond the 48-Hour Limit
- Note the exact time of your arrest — this is critical for tracking the 48-hour deadline.
- Ask to be brought before the Public Prosecution if 48 hours have passed.
- Have your lawyer file a petition for release if detention is extended without proper authority.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if you are a foreign national — they can monitor your detention and push for timely processing.
- Family members can check your case status through the Dubai Police app, Abu Dhabi Police app, or by visiting the relevant police station.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not try to leave or escape detention — this creates additional criminal charges.
- Do not sign confession documents while waiting to see the Public Prosecution — anything you sign can be used against you.
- Do not assume long detention is normal — challenge it through your lawyer and insist on being brought before the prosecution.
Common Questions
When does it apply — right against arbitrary detention (48-hour rule)?
You are arrested and held by police or security forces in any emirate.This applies to all people in the UAE, including citizens, residents, and tourists.The 48-hour rule runs from the moment of arrest, not from when you arrive at the police station.
What should I do if I have been held by police in the UAE for more than 48 hours without being charged?
Note the exact time of your arrest — this is critical for tracking the 48-hour deadline.Ask to be brought before the Public Prosecution if 48 hours have passed.Have your lawyer file a petition for release if detention is extended without proper authority.Contact your embassy or consulate if you are a foreign national — they can monitor your detention and push for timely processing.Family members can check your case status through the Dubai Police app, Abu Dhabi Police app, or by visiting the relevant police station.
What should you NOT do — right against arbitrary detention (48-hour rule)?
Do not try to leave or escape detention — this creates additional criminal charges.Do not sign confession documents while waiting to see the Public Prosecution — anything you sign can be used against you.Do not assume long detention is normal — challenge it through your lawyer and insist on being brought before the prosecution.