Criminal Lawyers UAE

Understanding Criminal Law Dubai, Abu Dhabi – Criminal Lawyers in UAE

Criminal law in the UAE is governed by Federal Law, Decree No. 31 of 2021, Promulgating the Crimes and Penalties Law (UAE Penal Code), which defines many crimes and the applicable penalties. The legal framework is enacted to protect the rights of every individual and ensure justice. Nevertheless, criminal cases that are most commonly associated with criminal lawyers are theft, fraud, assault, drug-related offenses, cybercrime, and financial crimes.

Crimes under the UAE Penal Code with provisions of Sharia Islamic Law are divided into categories: felonies, which are the most serious; violations or contraventions; and misdemeanors. Punishments include fines, penalties, custody, confinement, Diyat (financial compensation to the heirs of the victim or the victim), temporary or life imprisonment, and the death penalty.

At HHS Lawyers, we provide expert legal advice and representation to individuals and organizations under criminal investigation or considering pursuing a perpetrator. With decades of legal experience, the firm has successfully handled numerous criminal cases and represented clients in police stations, UAE Courts of First Instance, Courts of Cassation, Courts of Appeal, and the UAE Federal Supreme Court.

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Criminal Lawyers in Dubai Sharjah, Abu Dhabi UAE

Types of Cases Our Criminal Defense Lawyers and Legal Consultants Cover:

Financial Crime

Our experts have provided legal assistance to clients under investigation for financial crimes, including money laundering, loan and/or credit card fraud, unlawful use of financial instruments and property, bribery, and corruption. These grave offenses are often committed for personal financial gain or due to a lack of information or deception by a third party. The firm also offers consultancy services for financial crime prevention, including whistleblowing, anti-money laundering, anti-corruption and bribery, and financial crime risk assessment.

Drug Crimes

The use of banned or controlled medicinal substances is illegal in the UAE. Countless individuals with just a trace of illegal drugs in their system were sent to Punitive and Correctional Institutions, mostly due to a lack of legal representation. Several OTC and prescribed drugs that are legal in other countries are classified as illegal substances in the UAE.

Our criminal lawyers can offer representation in all drug-related crimes, such as:

Personal consumption
Drug possession
Drug dealing and
Drug trafficking

Violent Crimes

It can be difficult to acquire reliable legal representation for violent crime cases in a country with low violent crime rates. Fortunately, our seasoned professionals are some of the few who can analyze cases, offer expert advice, and prepare defense strategies accordingly. The firm has qualified criminal lawyers who handle cases with vigor and great tenacity.

Our experts’ previous cases that are classified as violent crimes include:

Manslaughter (vehicular, intentional, or unintentional)
Assault
Homicide and
Kidnapping

Theft Crimes

We defend and advise on all types of charges related to theft crime in the UAE, including simple theft and aggravated theft. The former, stealing without foregoing circumstances, results only in a misdemeanor charge with our legal advisory; however, convicted aggravated theft or armed robbery may result in fines, probation, and/or imprisonment without appropriate legal representation.

Sexual Crimes

Sexual crimes have serious punishments, including deportation (for expats), fines, imprisonment, and even the death penalty. Considering the severity of the punishments, the firm offers the expertise of experienced criminal attorneys in defending charges of unwanted sexual behavior.

Juvenile Crimes

Minors are prone to making bad decisions, which is why we here at HHS Lawyers provide clients with the expertise of qualified and experienced attorneys in getting a good understanding of juvenile crime cases. Our experts believe children deserve second chances. We always aim towards complete case dismissal for juvenile crimes.

Cyber crimes

In the UAE, banking fraud, hacking, sharing objectionable content online, credit card fraud, and identity theft are considered cyber crimes and are punishable by law. Our criminal defense lawyers are up-to-date with technological advancements, including recent amendments to cybercrime legislation to provide clients with reliable legal aid.

The Role of Criminal Lawyers

Criminal lawyers play a very fundamental role in the justice system within the UAE. Their duties include the following:

Legal Representation: The lawyer represents clients before any court of law on matters related to criminal cases, whether it is minor offenses or involves heinous crimes.
Legal Advice: Lawyers offer professional advice to clients concerning their rights and options available under the law.
Case Preparation: The criminal lawyer assists in case preparation. It involves the building of a strong defense through the collection of all types of admissible evidence, interviewing of witnesses, and investigation of facts on the case.
Negotiation: Such lawyers will negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or a favorable plea bargain.
Court Appearances: The lawyer represents clients in court and argues and cross-examines witnesses.
Appeals: Representing appeals to courts of appeal against conviction or seeking reduced sentences.

How to Choose the Right Criminal Lawyer

The following are some of the factors one should consider while choosing a criminal lawyer in the UAE:

Experience: While choosing a lawyer, consider their experience in criminal law and the success rate of their cases.
Expertise: Make sure that the attorney’s practice is focused on the area of criminal law involved in your case.
Reputation: Find out about the reputation of the attorney concerning professionalism, integrity, and client satisfaction.
Communication: Effective communication is very important. Always engage a lawyer who is easily accessible and keeps you up to date on your case.
Legal Fees: Understand how the attorney bills for their services, and make sure it is within your budget.

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HHS Lawyers & Legal Consultants – Best Criminal Lawyer in Dubai

If you or a loved one is a suspect of a crime, asked to attend an interrogation at any police station, or charged with a felony or criminal offence, contact HHS lawyers. We’ll assist you in the best way possible by gathering information for a thorough assessment of your case, the provision of a strategic approach to handling the case, and offering representation from arraignment to trial. Call us today to talk to our criminal lawyers.

How HHS Lawyers in Dubai Can Help You

At HHS Lawyers, a top law firm in Dubai ,we understand how the UAE criminal justice framework operates and are wholeheartedly committed to providing a defense to those who have been charged. Our competent group of lawyers can provide the following legal services with distinction:

Expert Legal Advice: Advice regarding your particular circumstances, clearly and concisely.
Strong Defense: Our lawyers prepare your defense by studying the minute details of your case.
Court Representation: We represent you before the court in the best manner possible by presenting your case effectively against prosecution’s arguments.
Appeals: If necessary, we file appeals to seek a favorable outcome for your case.

Should you have a charge of a criminal nature against you in the UAE, you are strongly advised to hire a good, well-experienced legal team. HHS Lawyers are at your service. You only need to contact us to have an appointment for a consultation to know how we can assist you in taking steps forward with your life with minimal interference.

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FAQ’s

What kind of criminal cases exist in the UAE?

The UAE legal system classifies crimes into three primary categories: Contraventions (minor violations like traffic disturbances), Misdemeanors (theft, simple assault, or certain bounced cheques), and Felonies (major crimes like murder, drug trafficking, or large-scale fraud). The UAE Penal Code (Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021) also covers cybercrime, financial misconduct, and domestic violence.

Should I hire a criminal lawyer even while I am under investigation?

Yes. Legal representation is vital from the investigation stage. A lawyer can attend police questioning to protect your rights, prevent self-incrimination, and ensure all procedures—such as the 48-hour police detention limit—are strictly followed. Early legal intervention often prevents a case from escalating to a formal charge in Public Prosecution.

Does criminal law in the UAE apply to expatriates?

Yes. UAE criminal law is territorial and applies to everyone regardless of nationality. For expatriates, a criminal conviction often carries additional administrative consequences, such as mandatory or discretionary deportation, cancellation of residency, and a permanent ban from re-entering the country.

What happens after an arrest in Dubai?

The legal process follows a strict timeline. Once arrested, the police conduct an initial investigation and must refer the suspect to the Public Prosecution within 48 hours. The Public Prosecutor then has 24 hours to either release the suspect or order further detention for investigation.

Is bail available in UAE criminal cases?

Bail (Kafāla) is discretionary and depends on the severity of the crime. For minor offenses, bail may involve depositing a financial bond or surrendering a passport (your own or a guarantor’s). In 2026, bail can also include electronic monitoring (e-tagging). High-risk crimes like national security offenses or major drug trafficking are typically ineligible for bail.

What is the average duration of a criminal case in Dubai?

Simple misdemeanors may be resolved within weeks. However, complex felonies involving forensic evidence or expert reports can take 6 to 12 months or more. By law, once a case reaches court, the first hearing must typically be scheduled within three working days.

What punishments are applied in UAE criminal cases?

Punishments range from fines (up to AED 1 million or more) to imprisonment (life or fixed terms). Serious crimes like premeditated murder or treason may carry the death penalty. For expatriates, deportation is almost always a mandatory consequence for felony convictions.

Is it possible to settle a criminal case?

Yes. Under the Criminal Procedures Law (No. 38 of 2022), criminal settlements are possible for certain misdemeanors and financial crimes. If the victim signs a waiver (reconciliation) and the Public Prosecution approves, the case can be closed before it reaches a final court judgment.

What is a travel ban in a criminal case?

A travel ban is a legal restriction preventing an individual from leaving the UAE while a case is pending. It is automatically triggered during a criminal investigation to ensure the suspect’s presence at trial.

Can a criminal travel ban be removed?

Yes. A lawyer can petition the Public Prosecution or the judge to lift a ban. This usually requires a strong guarantee, such as a cash deposit equivalent to the claim or the passport of a stable UAE resident guarantor.

Are bounced cheques still criminal in 2026?

Most commercial cheque disputes have been decriminalized and are now civil matters. However, a bounced cheque remains a criminal offense if it involves “bad faith,” fraud, or if the drawer intentionally withdrew funds to prevent the cheque from clearing.

What are the laws regarding cybercrime?

The Cybercrime Law (No. 34 of 2021) is strictly enforced. It covers online defamation, unauthorized access to data, electronic fraud, and even “fake news.” In 2026, new regulations like the Child Digital Safety Law have also introduced heavy penalties for platforms failing to protect minors online.

How does the UAE handle drug-related offenses?

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 30 of 2021, first-time possession for personal use can lead to a minimum of 3 months in prison or a fine between AED 20,000 and AED 100,000. For non-residents, even small amounts often result in a fine followed by immediate deportation.

Can criminal cases impact family or custody issues?

Yes. A criminal record, especially one involving drugs, violence, or “moral turpitude,” can be used as evidence in family court to argue that a parent is unfit for custody or guardianship.

Is it possible to appeal a criminal verdict?

Yes. You have 15 days to appeal a judgment from the Court of First Instance to the Court of Appeal. If there is a legal error in the appeal judgment, a final appeal can be made to the Court of Cassation within 30 days.

Why hire a criminal lawyer in the UAE?

The UAE’s legal system is conducted entirely in Arabic. A lawyer not only provides a defense strategy but also ensures your statements are accurately translated and that you understand the high-stakes implications of the Penal Code, helping to minimize fines or jail time.