Criminal Law in Abu Dhabi
Criminal law in the UAE is federal, but it is enforced locally. In Abu Dhabi, matters run through Abu Dhabi Police, the Abu Dhabi Public Prosecution and the emirate's criminal courts. Early intervention matters, because decisions taken in the first hours, at the police station and during questioning, often shape the entire case. ADGM has no criminal jurisdiction, so criminal exposure always sits within the onshore federal system.
We act at every stage: police complaints and responses, travel bans, bail, prosecution hearings, trial and appeals. Common matters include financial and cheque-related disputes that carry criminal as well as civil consequences, breach-of-trust and fraud allegations, and cybercrime. We also advise on lifting travel bans and on the interaction between a criminal complaint and any parallel civil or commercial claim.
What we do
- Defence at police and prosecution stage
- Travel bans and their removal
- Financial and cheque-related offences
- Fraud and breach of trust
- Cybercrime
- Bail and appeals
Frequently asked
A criminal complaint has been filed against me in Abu Dhabi. What first?
Get advice before you give any statement. The response at the police and prosecution stage often determines the outcome. We can attend, respond to the complaint, and address any travel ban quickly.
Can a bounced cheque lead to criminal action?
Cheque dishonour has been largely decriminalised for individuals in most cases, but certain circumstances and bad-faith conduct can still carry criminal exposure alongside civil recovery. We assess your specific facts.
How do I lift a travel ban?
Travel bans can arise from criminal complaints or civil debts. Removal depends on the type and the underlying matter, often by settling, providing security, or challenging the basis. We handle the application before the relevant authority or court.
Criminal Law in other emirates