Getting arrested in Dubai is one of those moments that can flip your world upside down. For expats, it’s even more stressful because the legal system here may feel unfamiliar. The good news? The UAE has clear laws that protect your rights during arrest, detention, and investigation. Knowing these rights could make all the difference.
Right to Legal Representation
You have the right to consult a lawyer immediately after arrest, and if you can’t afford one, the court may appoint counsel for you, especially in serious cases.
Having a criminal lawyer in Dubai by your side isn’t just a formality—it’s protection. A criminal defense lawyer ensures the police follow proper procedures, prevents forced confessions, and builds a defense strategy from day one.
Right to an Interpreter
If you don’t speak Arabic, you’re entitled to an official translator who will ensure you understand all proceedings.
This is critical for expats in Dubai. Whether it’s understanding charges, signing papers, or appearing in court, every detail must be clear to you in a language you understand.
Right to Remain Silent
You’re not obligated to speak or answer police questions without consulting your lawyer first.
This prevents self-incrimination and protects you from saying something that could be used against you later in court. It’s one of the strongest shields you have under UAE law.
Right to Humane Treatment
You must be treated with dignity and cannot be subjected to coercion or torture.
The UAE Constitution safeguards against mistreatment during detention and interrogation. If authorities cross the line, your lawyer can raise this in court.
Presumption of Innocence
In the UAE, you’re innocent until proven guilty, and your liberty cannot be restricted without legal justification.
This principle forms the backbone of the UAE justice system. No matter the charges, the burden lies on the prosecution to prove your guilt—not on you to prove innocence.
Arrest Procedures & Detention Timeframes
The police may hold you for up to 48 hours before handing your case to the Public Prosecution.
If the case involves a serious crime, you can be kept in prosecution custody for:
- 7 days initially, renewable up to 21 days.
- Longer detention requires judicial approval.
A good criminal defense lawyer in Dubai ensures these timelines are respected and challenges unlawful extensions.
Right to Bail
Depending on the offense, you may be released on bail, which can involve cash deposits, surrendering your passport, or providing third-party guarantees.
Bail isn’t automatic, but a skilled lawyer can push for it, especially if you’re not a flight risk.
Recourse for Minors
Children under 18 must not be handcuffed unless necessary, and a guardian must be present during questioning.
The UAE legal system gives special protection to minors to ensure fairness and proper care.
Rights to Embassy Notification (For Foreign Nationals)
As a foreigner, you can ask your embassy to be informed of your arrest.
Your embassy can:
- Arrange translation support.
- Help connect you with lawyers.
- Notify your family.
However, embassies cannot interfere with the UAE judicial process or pay legal fees.
Protection against Unlawful Detention
No one can be detained without legal grounds, and you must be presented before the Public Prosecution within the legal timeframe.
If authorities fail to follow these rules, your detention can be challenged in court.
What Should You Do If You’re Arrested in Dubai?
If you’re arrested in Dubai, stay calm, cooperate respectfully, ask about the charges, request a lawyer, contact your embassy, never sign documents you don’t understand, and explore bail options.
Here’s why each step matters:
- Stay calm and respectful – Aggressive behavior will only make things worse.
- Ask about the reason for arrest – You have the right to know why you’re being held.
- Request legal help immediately – Don’t answer questions without your lawyer present.
- Contact your embassy – They can support with communication and legal referrals.
- Avoid signing unclear documents – Especially if they’re in Arabic.
- Ask about bail – Depending on the charge, you may not have to stay in custody.
Our Role as Legal Counsel
As criminal defense lawyers in Dubai, our role is to safeguard your rights from the very first moment of arrest. We:
- Ensure fair treatment during detention.
- Build a strong defense strategy.
- Represent you before the prosecution and courts.
- Assist in communication with your family and embassy.
Final Word
Being arrested in Dubai is stressful, but you’re not powerless. By knowing your rights and contacting a qualified criminal lawyer and legal consultants in Dubai immediately, you can protect yourself and ensure a fair process.
