Right to Know Charges Against You 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?
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 formally notify you of the charges before any interrogation begins. In the UAE, all criminal cases are handled by the Public Prosecution — there is no private prosecution system.
- All charges must be explained in a language you understand — if you do not speak Arabic, a sworn interpreter must be provided at state expense.
- You have the right to receive a written copy of the charges filed against you.
- Be aware that charges under the Cybercrime Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021) are common — online posts, messages, or photos can form the basis of criminal complaints.
When does it apply?
- You are arrested, detained, or summoned by police or the Public Prosecution anywhere in the UAE.
- This applies to all people — UAE nationals, residents, and visitors alike.
- The right applies at every stage of criminal proceedings, from arrest through trial.
- It applies whether you are arrested by Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, Sharjah Police, or any other emirate police force.
What to Do If You Are Arrested Without Being Told the Charges in the UAE
- Ask clearly what you are being charged with or why you are being detained.
- If you do not speak Arabic, request a sworn interpreter immediately — do not rely on informal translation.
- Do not sign any documents you do not fully understand — you have the right to a proper translation before signing anything.
- Ask for a written record of the charges and keep it safe.
- If you are a foreign national, ask to contact your embassy or consulate — police must facilitate this.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not resist arrest — even if you believe it is unjust, resisting is a separate criminal offence under the Penal Code that can lead to additional charges and, for expats, deportation.
- Do not make statements until you understand the charges and have spoken to a lawyer.
- Do not sign Arabic-language documents without a proper translation, even if pressured to do so.
Common Questions
When does it apply — right to know charges against you?
You are arrested, detained, or summoned by police or the Public Prosecution anywhere in the UAE.This applies to all people — UAE nationals, residents, and visitors alike.The right applies at every stage of criminal proceedings, from arrest through trial.It applies whether you are arrested by Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, Sharjah Police, or any other emirate police force.
What should I do if I am arrested in the UAE and not told what I am being charged with?
Ask clearly what you are being charged with or why you are being detained.If you do not speak Arabic, request a sworn interpreter immediately — do not rely on informal translation.Do not sign any documents you do not fully understand — you have the right to a proper translation before signing anything.Ask for a written record of the charges and keep it safe.If you are a foreign national, ask to contact your embassy or consulate — police must facilitate this.
What should you NOT do — right to know charges against you?
Do not resist arrest — even if you believe it is unjust, resisting is a separate criminal offence under the Penal Code that can lead to additional charges and, for expats, deportation.Do not make statements until you understand the charges and have spoken to a lawyer.Do not sign Arabic-language documents without a proper translation, even if pressured to do so.