How to file a criminal case in Dubai in 2025?
To file a case, you must report the crime to the police station in the jurisdiction where the offence occurred, initiating the legal process.
Filing a criminal case in the UAE follows strict procedures outlined under Federal Law No. 35 of 1992, as amended.
This article will guide you through the steps, legal requirements, and your rights in the process of filing a criminal case in Dubai.
It also explains how legal professionals can help you navigate the system effectively.
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Table of Contents
File a Criminal Case in Dubai
Filing a criminal case in Dubai involves several key steps: first, you must report the crime to the police and undergo an investigation conducted by the Public Prosecution.
Additionally, it’s important to understand when a victim’s complaint is necessary, be aware of your legal rights, and follow the procedures for withdrawing or dismissing the case.
The following sections provide a detailed explanation of each step and outline how our legal team can assist you throughout the process.
Filing a Complaint
The process to file a criminal case in Dubai begins with the victim or their representative informing the police or relevant authority about the offence.
You can do this by:
- Filing a criminal complaint with the local police station where the crime occurred.
- Reporting crimes directly to judicial officers, such as police or prosecutors.
- Taking the offender to the nearest police station if caught committing the crime.
- Submitting a complaint in cases that legally require victim initiation (e.g., insult or theft by a family member).
Initial Police Investigation
After receiving the complaint, the police carry out a preliminary investigation. This involves:
- Taking statements from the complainant, witnesses, and the accused.
- Referring the case to the Public Prosecution within 48 hours of the report.
- Ensuring that, if arrested, the accused is questioned by the Public Prosecution within 24 hours.
Role of Public Prosecution
Once the police refer the case, the Public Prosecution becomes responsible for moving the case forward. Their role includes:
- Holding the exclusive right to initiate and prosecute criminal proceedings.
- Investigating the matter, pressing charges, and referring the accused to court.
- Conducting the investigation in Arabic and using interpreters when required.
Filing Complaints That Require the Victim’s Consent
In certain crimes, a complaint from the victim or their legal guardian is legally required. These specific cases include:
- Theft or breach of trust between spouses or close relatives where no lien or seizure exists.
- Taking or refusing to return a minor to their lawful custodian.
- Crimes such as insult, slander, or others specified under UAE law.
Legal Rights and Procedures
The UAE criminal process is designed to respect the rights of all individuals involved. The law guarantees several protections, such as:
- Presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
- Lawful arrest, detention, and search only under specified legal circumstances.
- Entry into private residences is only permitted with legal permission or in emergencies.
- The duty of any person aware of a crime is to report it, even if no complaint is needed.
- The right to claim compensation if falsely accused.
Lapse and Withdrawal of Criminal Actions
There are legal grounds under which a criminal case may lapse or be withdrawn. These include:
- Withdrawal of the complaint by the victim or all victims if more than one filed it.
- Withdrawal rights transfer to the legal heirs if the victim dies.
- Legal lapse due to the accused’s death, final judgment, legal amnesty, or law repeal.
- Expiration based on time limits: 1 year (violations), 3 years (misdemeanors), 10 or 20 years (felonies).
Legal Services Related to Filing a Criminal Case in Dubai
If you’re filing or defending against a criminal case, having experienced legal representation is crucial.
Our firm offers a wide range of legal services tailored specifically to the criminal complaint process in Dubai.
Legal Consultation and Case Assessment
We help you understand whether your case qualifies for criminal action.
Our legal team will assess the facts of your case and applicable law, and advise whether a formal complaint is required or whether the prosecution can act directly.
Filing Complaints and Legal Representation
We guide and represent you through every stage of the complaint process.
This includes Drafting and submitting criminal complaints to the police or prosecution and representing you before the police, the Public Prosecution, and in court proceedings.
Legal Guardianship and Victim Representation
In cases involving minors, vulnerable individuals, or those without representation, we provide legal assistance to minors, individuals with mental disabilities, or victims without legal guardians.
We also manage complaint withdrawals and related procedures with the legal heirs.
Interpreter and Language Support
Non-Arabic speakers receive support through certified legal interpreters, ensuring your understanding and participation in Arabic-language investigations.
Defense Against Wrongful Accusations
If you are wrongly accused of a crime, our lawyers will defend your rights throughout the investigation and trial, and file claims for compensation due to false or harmful accusations.
Appeals and Court Proceedings
Legal support continues beyond the trial phase.
We also handle appeals to higher courts as necessary, ensuring compliance with deadlines and proper case management at each judicial level.
Learn more:
- Best Criminal Lawyer in Dubai, UAE.
- Our lawyers in Dubai.
FAQs about Filing a Criminal Case in Dubai
To file a criminal case in Dubai, you must follow multiple legal steps—starting with submitting a complaint to the police and continuing through investigation, court proceedings, and possible appeals.
These steps must strictly comply with UAE law to ensure a fair and lawful outcome.
Our legal team is experienced in assisting clients with filing criminal cases in Dubai and is ready to provide expert guidance and representation throughout the process.
Contact our advocates in the UAE for professional help. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
UAE Advocator Editorial is a team of qualified legal graduates specializing in UAE law and regulations. They provide expert, clear, and up-to-date legal analysis, insights, and commentary tailored for legal professionals, businesses, and individuals navigating the UAE’s complex legal landscape. As a trusted source for accurate and reliable information, UAE Advocator helps readers stay informed on the UAE’s latest legal developments, legislation, and court rulings.