What should I do if I am arrested in Dubai?

Stay calm and do not resist. You have the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. Do not sign any documents or make any statements before speaking to a criminal defense lawyer. Call us immediately; we will tell you exactly what to do from that moment.

How fast can a criminal defense lawyer reach me in Dubai?

Our team is available now. When you call or WhatsApp us, we respond immediately. For urgent situations, like arrest, police questioning, or an imminent hearing, we treat your case as a priority from the first contact.

What happens at Dubai criminal court?

Criminal cases in Dubai start at the Public Prosecution stage. The prosecution decides whether to send the case to the Court of First Instance. If convicted, you can appeal to the Court of Appeal and then the Court of Cassation. Each stage has deadlines. Having a lawyer from the start gives you the best chance at every stage.

Can I be deported after a criminal conviction in Dubai?

Yes. A criminal conviction in Dubai can result in deportation and a re-entry ban, especially for expats. This makes early legal intervention critical. The sooner you involve a criminal defense lawyer, the more options you have to prevent this outcome.

What is the difference between criminal defense and criminal litigation?

Criminal defense is the work done to protect your rights and build your case before and during trial. Criminal litigation refers specifically to court proceedings. Our team handles both. We defend you from the moment of arrest and represent you in court if the case goes that far.

Can you handle a criminal case if my family member is arrested and I am outside Dubai?

Yes. We work with family members who are abroad and need to help a loved one facing criminal charges in Dubai. We can act on your behalf, keep you fully informed, and represent your family member in all court proceedings, you do not need to be in Dubai yourself.

Does Leaders Advocates handle criminal cases for expats and non-Arabic speakers?

Yes. Our criminal defense team speaks Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi. We have handled criminal cases for clients from across Europe, South Asia, Russia, and the Arab world. You do not need to speak Arabic to get strong legal representation in Dubai criminal courts.

Assault and Battery Lawyers in Dubai

Assault Law · Dubai

An assault or battery accusation in Dubai is treated seriously and moves fast. Whether the charge involves a physical fight, a workplace altercation, a domestic dispute, aggravated assault involving a weapon, or an accusation of sexual assault, you need an experienced assault lawyer in Dubai protecting your rights from the first hour. Our assault and battery lawyers defend clients across the UAE, in five languages.

All Assault Charges Covered

Minor, aggravated, domestic and sexual assault cases

20+ years

defending assault and battery cases in the UAE

Award-winning

Recognised criminal defense practice in the UAE

5 Languages

Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu and Turkish

QUICK ANSWER

Assault and battery are criminal offenses in the UAE, governed by Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021, the Penal Code. A complaint filed with the police can lead to detention, a medical examination of the alleged victim, and a fast moving investigation, even for a minor altercation.

The punishment depends on how serious the injury was, whether a weapon was used, whether the person was under the influence, and other circumstances the law treats as aggravating. Getting a lawyer involved early, before you give a statement to the police, makes a real difference to how the case develops.

UAE law does not split these into two separate crimes the way some countries do. Physical force, violence or even a credible threat can all fall under assault provisions in the Penal Code, with the punishment depending on the harm caused.

In some less serious cases, reconciliation between the parties can influence the outcome or the sentence. In more serious cases, the case can continue through the courts regardless of reconciliation.

It can. Certain convictions can lead to deportation or visa cancellation for expats, which is why getting legal advice immediately after an accusation is so important.

IS THIS YOUR SITUATION?

Assault and battery cases come in many forms. Tell us which one matches your situation, and we will tell you exactly what you need to do.

I was in a physical fight and the police were called.

I have been accused of assault by someone I had a dispute with.

I am being investigated over a workplace altercation.

I have been accused of domestic assault.

Someone has accused me of sexual assault or indecent assault.

The other person has a weapon related or aggravated assault charge against me.

I am a foreigner and worried about deportation over an assault charge.

I was assaulted by someone else and I want to file a complaint.

If any of these match your situation, contact our assault and battery lawyers in Dubai today. Your consultation is completely confidential.

WHY LEADERS ADVOCATES

We Act From the First Hour.

An assault case can move quickly once a complaint is filed. We respond immediately when a client calls, so you have protection during police questioning, not just at trial.

We Handle Every Level of Assault Charge.

From a minor altercation to an aggravated assault involving a weapon, we understand how UAE law treats each level differently, and we build your defense accordingly.

We Defend Sensitive Cases With Discretion.

Cases involving sexual assault, domestic disputes or workplace incidents are handled with strict confidentiality and care, from the first phone call to the final hearing.

We Speak Your Language.

Our lawyers speak Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu and Turkish. Facing an assault charge is stressful enough without a language barrier.

Award Winning Legal Practice.

Leaders Advocates has been recognised for excellence in criminal defense in the UAE. When you hire us, you are working with a firm that clients trust with serious personal matters.

CRITICAL SECTION

Every case gets a named lawyer from day one.

Minor Assault and Physical Altercations

Street disputes, bar fights and other physical altercations that result in a police complaint, even without serious injury.

Aggravated Assault

Assault involving a weapon, premeditation, or committed while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, all treated as aggravating factors under UAE law that increase the potential penalty.

Battery and Physical Injury Cases

Cases where the alleged assault caused a physical injury. The medical report plays a central role in how the charge is classified and how serious the case becomes.

Sexual Assault and Indecent Assault

Allegations involving unwanted physical contact of a sexual nature are treated extremely seriously under UAE law and carry severe penalties. These cases require a lawyer experienced in handling sensitive matters with discretion.

Domestic Assault

Physical disputes between spouses or family members, which UAE law treats with specific provisions alongside standard assault rules.

Workplace and Group Altercations

Fights or physical disputes involving colleagues or several people at once, which can lead to multiple people being investigated or charged.

Dubai Courts

UAE Ministry of Justice

Abu Dhabi Courts

Dubai Chamber of Commerce

International Maritime Debt Recovery Through UAE Courts

Correcting an Invalid Marriage Under UAE

Effects of a Defective Marriage Under UAE

International Maritime Debt Recovery Through UAE Courts

Correcting an Invalid Marriage Under UAE

Effects of a Defective Marriage Under UAE

Arabic

English

Russian

Urdu

Turkish

Hindi

UNDERSTANDING ASSAULT LAW IN DUBAI

How UAE Law Defines Assault

Assault in the UAE is covered under Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021, the Penal Code. The law treats assault as using physical force, violence or intimidation against another person, and the punishment depends heavily on the harm caused, ranging from a fine and short detention for minor cases to several years in prison for serious injury.

Aggravating Factors That Increase the Penalty

UAE law treats certain circumstances as aggravating factors that increase the punishment. These include using a weapon or any tool during the assault, acting with premeditation, being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time, and the assault resulting in permanent injury or disability.

Have a question about your assault case and which charges may apply? Contact our lawyers in Dubai. We explain it clearly in the first consultation.

WHAT WE HANDLE

Defending Against an Assault or Battery Charge

If you have been accused of assault, we review the evidence, the medical report and the circumstances, and represent you from police questioning through to the final court hearing.

Filing a Complaint After Being Assaulted

If you were the victim of an assault, we help you file a police complaint correctly, gather medical and witness evidence, and pursue compensation alongside the criminal case.

Aggravated and Weapon Related Assault Defense

Cases involving a weapon, premeditation or serious injury carry much harsher penalties. We build a focused defense for these more serious charges.

Defending Against a False Assault Accusation

Where the accusation does not match the real events, we challenge weak or inconsistent evidence and build a defense around the facts.

CRITICAL SECTION

Assault is a criminal offense in the UAE and can lead to imprisonment and fines, not just a warning.
A medical report on the alleged victim often decides how serious the charge becomes.
Using a weapon, acting with premeditation, or being under the influence all increase the potential punishment.
Reconciliation between the parties can influence some cases, but it does not guarantee the case will be dropped.
A conviction can lead to deportation or visa cancellation for expats, in addition to any prison sentence or fine.
Self defense can be raised in some cases, but it needs to be supported by solid evidence to succeed.

Not sure how serious your situation is under UAE law? Contact our assault lawyers in Dubai. We assess your case and tell you clearly what to expect.

FOR EXPATS

A conviction for assault can lead to deportation or a cancelled visa, in addition to any prison sentence or fine.
You have the right to a lawyer and the right to an interpreter during police questioning and court proceedings.
Do not sign any statement in Arabic that has not been fully explained to you in your own language.
Business professionals facing a charge linked to a workplace incident can also be affected in their employment, not only personally.
If you were the one assaulted, you can still file a complaint and pursue compensation even as a visitor or new resident.
Acting quickly and getting legal advice before giving a statement gives you the strongest possible position from the start.
Will a minor assault charge really affect my ability to stay in the UAE? It depends on the severity of the conviction and the specific circumstances. Some minor cases do not lead to deportation, while more serious convictions can. A lawyer can assess your specific situation honestly.

Client Experience

      
 Excellent4.955 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent55 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mahar Ammar 
 3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I heard about Leaders Advocates through a recommendation when I was trying to find a corporate lawyer in Dubai.

I had a few questions regarding a corporate matter and wanted to understand my options before making any decisions.

Faris Raian was helpful during our discussion, and I appreciated having my questions addressed properly.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed 
 16 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I needed legal assistance with a maritime-related matter in Dubai and was initially unsure where to turn because of the specific nature of the issue. Leaders Advocates was recommended to me, and I’m very glad I contacted them.

Faris and Ekatrina were professional from the first consultation. They took the time to understand the circumstances of my matter and explained the relevant legal considerations clearly. I never felt that my questions were being rushed, and they made sure I understood the available options before making any decisions.

I particularly appreciated their communication and attention to detail. Maritime matters can involve several different legal and commercial considerations, so having lawyers who understand the specific nature of the issue is extremely important.

Overall, I had a very positive experience with Leaders Advocates. I would recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and their team to anyone looking for professional Maritime Lawyers in Dubai or legal assistance with a shipping
or maritime dispute.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mazuba Haanyama 
 18 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I experienced great service from Leaders Advocates. They were attentive and detail oriented and got me the result I was looking. I highly recommend them!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Shahid Bhai 
 21 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended!

You can blindly trust Mr. Faris for legal services. He is one of the best lawyers in Dubai.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Никита Бочаров 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very pleased with the legal support I received from Leaders Advocates regarding a real estate issue in Dubai. From the beginning, Faris and Ekatrina took the time to understand the details of my situation and explained the legal options available to me in a very clear and professional way.

What I appreciated most was their responsiveness and attention to detail. Real estate matters can become complicated very quickly, especially when there are disagreements between the parties, but their guidance made the process much easier to understand. Their knowledge of Real Estate Law in Dubai and property-related disputes was very reassuring.

I would definitely recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for professional Real Estate Lawyers in Dubai or assistance with a property dispute.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   nehir yilmaz 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very grateful for Mr. Faris’s support throughout the whole process. He was always patient, professional, and quick to respond to all my questions. He made everything very clear and handled the process smoothly and efficiently. I really appreciated how dedicated and helpful he was from start to finish. Highly recommended!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ibraheim.goudadha 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very grateful for the professional assistance I received from Leaders Advocates regarding a cyber crime matter in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were extremely supportive and knowledgeable, and they explained the legal process clearly from the beginning. They handled my concerns with professionalism and confidentiality, which gave me a lot of confidence throughout the process. I highly recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for experienced Cyber Crime Lawyers in Dubai or a reliable Cyber Crime Defense Lawyer in Dubai.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   abd elrahman sheta 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience with Leaders Advocates regarding a tenancy dispute in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were very professional, responsive, and knowledgeable about UAE tenancy law. They explained the situation clearly and guided me through the available options and legal procedures. Their support gave me confidence throughout the case. I highly recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for reliable Tenancy Lawyers in Dubai or a professional Tenancy Dispute Lawyer in Dubai.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chris Williams 
 25 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I literally can NOT say enough good things about this Law Firm. I reached out to maybe 20 firms and this was the only firm to reach out with SPEED, get me the EXACT results I wanted, and went the extra mile. Whatever they quote you, PAY IT. Because they will work diligently to get the results you need.

And I'm not some fake review! They've helped me on three different occasions and I'm extremely grateful for them! I will only be using them going forward.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   haidy elsayed 
 37 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m very satisfied with the support I received from Leaders Advocates with my real estate matter in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were extremely professional, attentive, and knowledgeable. They took the time to understand my situation, explained my options clearly, and guided me through the legal process with confidence. Their expertise in real estate law and property disputes really made a difference. I would highly recommend Faris, Ekatrina, and Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for reliable Real Estate Lawyers in Dubai or professional property legal services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Maxim Orlov 
 39 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Leaders Advocates for anyone looking for reliable legal support in Dubai. From the first consultation, the team was approachable, attentive, and very clear about the available legal options. Faris and Ekaterina took the time to understand the situation properly and provided practical advice rather than making unrealistic promises. Communication was excellent throughout, and I always felt that my matter was being handled with care and professionalism. In my experience, Leaders Advocates is a strong choice for anyone searching for the Best Lawyer in Dubai, especially if you value clear advice, responsiveness, and a professional approach.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed Touny 
 41 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a very positive experience with Leaders Advocates regarding a real estate matter in Dubai. Faris and Ekatrina were both professional, responsive, and clear throughout the entire process. They explained the legal aspects of my case in a way that was easy to understand and gave me practical guidance at every stage. If you are looking for experienced Real Estate Lawyers in Dubai or need assistance with a property dispute, I would definitely recommend Leaders Advocates for their professional legal services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Thibaut FABBRI 
 45 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly professional, responsive, and efficient.

I work with several lawyers on different matters, but Faris Raian is by far the most responsive. He provides advice that genuinely serves his clients' best interests and does not encourage unnecessary legal proceedings.

I highly recommend his services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   قمر ال مبارك 
 53 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. خدمات سيئه للغايه اسئله بسيطه حجز موعد وتحجز موعد محد يتواصل معاك وإذا في بيتواصلون كل دفع دفع
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ivan 
 69 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Faris Raian and the entire team at Leaders Advocates for their professionalism and support throughout my case.

I spent quite a long time deciding whom I could trust with this matter and spoke with several lawyers who had been recommended to me. Eventually, I was introduced to Faris Raian. His professional reputation immediately stood out, while the terms and cost of his services were also considerably more attractive compared to the other options I had considered.

As it turned out, that was only the beginning of an exceptionally positive experience.

My case was related to fraud and involved a number of complex issues that had to be resolved within a very limited timeframe. Given the circumstances, I initially had serious doubts as to whether the result I had discussed with Faris Raian could realistically be achieved.

From the very beginning, however, Faris Raian was very clear and confident about the strategy. He asked me to trust his expertise, follow his recommendations and allow his team to handle the matter according to the agreed course of action. That is exactly what I did.

In the end, the result exceeded my expectations.

Throughout the entire process, Faris Raian consistently delivered on every commitment. Each stage was completed on time, and in many cases even faster than I expected. His approach was exceptionally professional, precise and well organised. As the case progressed, any doubts I initially had disappeared completely.

At a certain point, I simply followed his advice and trusted the process, without feeling the need to interfere or take any unnecessary steps myself. In my opinion, this is exactly what working with a true professional should feel like - someone you can genuinely trust.

I am extremely pleased that I found Faris Raian and the team at Leaders Advocates and entrusted my case to them. Everything we discussed and agreed upon was ultimately delivered, and the result was even better than I had originally expected.

The entire experience left me with an exceptionally positive impression.

My sincere thanks once again to Faris Raian and the entire Leaders Advocates team for their professionalism, reliability and the result they achieved for me. I would confidently recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for legal assistance from professionals they can genuinely trust.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ashish Bhatia 
 80 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The best team we have interacted with. The team is very understanding and gives a lot of time and patience in understanding the case. Regular updates available. Highly professionals group of people. STRONGLY recommend them. We have had a great experience with them. STRONGLY AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED !!!....5 STARS ALL THE WAY.......
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Yasser Muhammad 
 83 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience with Leaders Advocates in Dubai and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable and professional legal services.
They handled my real estate case perfectly from start to finish, and I was truly impressed by their professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail throughout the entire process.
I would especially like to thank Mr. Faris and Ms. Ekaterina for their outstanding support and dedication. They were always available to answer my questions, kept me informed at every stage, and made what could have been a stressful situation feel very smooth and well managed.
Thanks to their expertise and commitment, I felt confident that my case was in the best hands.
I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone in Dubai who needs legal assistance, especially in real estate matters.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   ahmed fathy 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t thank Faris Raian and Ekaterina enough for everything they did for me. When I first came to them, I had almost lost hope and honestly believed there was no way to get my rights back.

From the first meeting, they explained everything clearly, built a strong legal strategy, and supported me throughout the entire case. Thanks to their hard work, professionalism, and dedication, we won the case and I finally got my rights back.

If you’re looking for lawyers who truly care about their clients and fight for the best possible outcome, I highly recommend Faris Raian and Ekaterina. Thank you both for giving me hope again and for achieving a result I never thought was possible.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   이여름 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Faris handled my complex assault case with exceptional professionalism, discretion, and care. He was always mindful of the sensitive nature of the case, guided me through every step with confidence, and made a difficult process much easier to navigate. I'm truly grateful to Mr. Faris and his team for their dedication and support. Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mohamed Hassan 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and professional
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Donald Mahobele 
 88 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am incredibly grateful to Leaders Advocates for their support with my case. I was dealing with a difficult legal matter and reached out to their team for assistance. From the beginning, they provided clear guidance, professional support, and helped me understand the best way to move forward through the courts.

I won my case last week, which was a huge relief. A special thank you to Faris and the entire team for their dedication, professionalism, and support throughout the process. I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone seeking reliable legal assistance.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ali Raza 
 121 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks alot to Mr. Faris, Ms. Eketerina, Mr. Salah and paralegal team.
I had very complicated case, and Leaders Laww Firm won both cases for me in Court of 1st instance and in Appeal court.
The defense was very comprehensive. Throughout the process, i was assisted very well. All my answers, quries, concerns were replied prompty.
Words cant describe my Happiness :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nadine Ibrahim 
 233 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ممتازين
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mirna Kbbeh 
 238 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 5️⃣
I had a very positive experience with this firm. Everything was handled efficiently and with great professionalism. Ms. Frenjei was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mary Kebe 
 239 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Exceptional legal services. The firm combines expertise, responsiveness, and
professionalism. I am especially thankful to Ms. Frenjei for her outstanding assistance and dedication to my case.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Вероника 
 250 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Following a dispute with a real estate developer due to misleading sales practices, I engaged Leaders Advocates to represent me.The team handled the matter with professionalism, clear communication, and strong attention to detail. They successfully resolved the case and secured compensation for my losses
I appreciate their efficiency and would confidently recommend Leaders Advocates for real estate disputes
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Амира 
 251 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am incredibly grateful to Leaders Advocates for standing by me during one of the hardest periods of my life. They helped me win my case against my narcissistic ex-husband, finalized my divorce, secured all my legal rights, and ensured that my children remain in my care after removing shared custody. Their professionalism, dedication, and deep understanding of my situation made all the difference. Special thanks to Fares and EKaterina without them, my rights would have been lost. Their constant follow-ups, daily communication, and genuine support gave me strength, reassurance, and positive energy throughout the entire process until the case was successfully won. This was not just legal work - it was real support, real commitment, and real care. I truly couldn’t have done this without them and I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone seeking justice, protection and peace of mind.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Alex Alexander 
 251 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I want to genuinely thank Leaders Advocates for the amazing work they did on my case. It was a complex matter, and they handled it with confidence and professionalism from start to finish. A special thank you to Faris and Katerina, and honestly the whole team, for their hard work, patience, and constant support. They were always professional, responsive, and clear, which really gave me peace of mind throughout the process.
Most importantly, they achieved everything I was aiming for, and the final result exceeded my expectations. I truly appreciate their effort and dedication and would definitely recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone looking for a reliable and professional legal team.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Aleks Orlov 
 278 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have a relationship with Ms. Kate since 2020. At the time, she was the only one of several lawyers to take on my complicated case and gave me hope for success. The battle lasted four years. When the opponent tried to reverse the case, Mr. Faris joined in. They not only won the case but also initiated actual payments from the defendant. I thank them for their hard work. I commend their high level of legal competence and their support and care to the client.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Susan Osman 
 281 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am extremely grateful to Mr. Faris and Ms. Kate for their outstanding legal support. From the beginning, the team was professional, responsive, and highly knowledgeable. They handled my case with great care and expertise, and thanks to their dedication, my case was successfully won. I truly appreciate their hard work and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of reliable legal representation.

FAQS

What is the punishment for assault in Dubai?

Punishment depends on the severity of the injury and the circumstances, ranging from a fine and short detention for minor cases to several years in prison for serious or aggravated assault under Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021.

What happens in assault cases involving a medical report?

The medical report on the alleged victim plays a major role in how the case is classified, since the severity of the injury often determines the charge and the potential penalty.

Can assault charges be reconciled in Dubai?

In some less serious cases, reconciliation between the parties can influence the outcome. In more serious cases, the case proceeds through the courts regardless of any agreement reached.

Will I face deportation for an assault conviction as an expat?

Certain assault convictions can lead to deportation or visa cancellation for expats, depending on the severity of the case and the final judgment.

How long does an assault case take in Dubai courts?

Most cases take a few months from investigation to court proceedings. As a general guide, investigation takes about two to six weeks, prosecution review about one to two months, and court proceedings about three to six months, with an additional three to six months if an appeal is needed. Serious or aggravated cases involving forensic or medical assessments can take longer, sometimes six months or more.

Should I speak to the police without a lawyer if accused of assault?

It is strongly advisable to get legal advice before making any formal statement, since what you say during initial questioning can shape the rest of the case.

What counts as aggravated assault in the UAE?

Assault involving a weapon or tool, committed with premeditation, carried out while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or resulting in permanent injury is treated as aggravated and carries harsher penalties.

Is sexual assault treated differently from physical assault under UAE law?

Yes. Sexual assault and indecent assault are covered under separate, more serious provisions of the UAE Penal Code and carry severe penalties, reflecting how seriously the law treats these offenses.

Can self defense be used in an assault case in Dubai?

Self defense can be raised, but it needs to be supported by strong evidence, such as witness statements or injuries consistent with defending yourself rather than initiating the incident.

What should I do if I was assaulted by someone else in Dubai?

Report it to the police as soon as possible, get a medical examination to document any injuries, and gather any witness details or video evidence that supports your account.

Can a battery charge be filed even if there is no visible injury?

Yes. A charge can still be filed based on the use of force or violence itself, though the presence and severity of any injury often affects how the case is classified and punished.

Will I go to jail immediately after an assault accusation?

Not in every case. Detention depends on the severity of the allegation and the risk assessment made by the authorities. Many cases proceed without the accused being held throughout.

What happens step by step after a police complaint for assault is filed?

A complaint is filed with the police, who may take statements, review CCTV footage, order a medical examination, and detain the accused depending on severity. Evidence is then gathered while we work on your side of the story. The case moves to the Public Prosecution, which decides whether to formally charge you. If charges are confirmed, the case proceeds before the UAE criminal courts, and if needed, we file an appeal before a higher court depending on the outcome.

Whether you have been accused of assault or battery, facing an aggravated or sexual assault allegation, or you were the one assaulted, our assault and battery lawyers in Dubai are ready to help. Acting early, before you give any statement, gives you the strongest possible position. Your consultation is completely confidential. Contact us today.