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.

Faris Raian Best Criminal Appeal Lawyer in Dubai

Criminal Appeal · Dubai

A conviction in Dubai is not always the end of your case. UAE law allows a criminal judgment to be challenged before higher courts, but appeal deadlines are short and strict. If you or a family member has just been convicted, believes the sentence is too harsh, or wants to take a case to cassation after a first appeal, you need the best criminal appeal lawyer in Dubai acting immediately. Our criminal appeal lawyers handle appeal and cassation cases across the UAE, in five languages.

Appeal and Cassation Covered

Court of Appeal and Court of Cassation representation

20+ years

handling criminal appeal and cassation cases in the UAE

Award-winning

Recognised criminal and litigation law firm

5 Languages

Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Hindi and Turkish

QUICK ANSWER

A conviction is not always the final word. UAE law gives you the right to appeal a criminal judgment before a higher court, but the time limit to file is short. Acting within days of the judgment, not weeks, gives you the best chance of a successful appeal.

Criminal appeals in the UAE are governed by Federal Decree Law No. 38 of 2022 on Criminal Procedure. A lawyer reviews the judgment, identifies valid legal grounds, and files a formal appeal memorandum before the deadline closes.

The deadline is short and set by law, often counted in days from the date the judgment is issued or notified. Missing this window can permanently close your right to appeal, so speak to a lawyer immediately after a conviction.

In some cases, yes. Certain applications focus only on reducing the sentence rather than overturning the conviction entirely, based on factors such as first time offender status or personal circumstances.

The Court of Appeal can review both the facts and the law in your case. The Court of Cassation, which comes after, only reviews whether the law was applied correctly, not the facts again.

IS THIS YOUR SITUATION?

Criminal appeal 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 just convicted and I am not sure if I can appeal.

I believe the court made a legal mistake in my case.

I think my sentence is too harsh for what actually happened.

My appeal deadline is coming up soon and I need urgent help.

I lost my first appeal and want to know about taking the case to cassation.

I am a foreigner convicted in Dubai and worried about deportation.

A family member was convicted and I want to help them appeal.

I want to understand my real chances before I decide to appeal.

If any of these match your situation, contact our criminal appeal lawyers in Dubai today. Appeal deadlines are strict, so do not wait.

WHY LEADERS ADVOCATES

We Build Structured, Detailed Appeals.

A successful appeal depends on how clearly the legal grounds are identified and argued. We prepare detailed, well structured appeal memorandums rather than generic submissions.

We Handle Both Appeal and Cassation.

Whether your case is heading to the Court of Appeal for the first time, or you need to take it further to the Court of Cassation, we represent you at both levels.

We Move Fast Against Strict Deadlines.

Appeal deadlines in the UAE are short. We respond immediately when a client calls, so your appeal is prepared and filed within the legal time limit.

We Speak Your Language.

Our lawyers speak Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Hindi and Turkish. Understanding your appeal options should not depend on a language barrier.

Award Winning Legal Practice.

Leaders Advocates has been recognised for excellence in criminal and litigation law in the UAE. When you hire us, you are working with a firm that clients trust with serious appeal cases.

CASES WE HANDLE

Every case gets a named lawyer from day one.

Appeals Against Drug Convictions

Challenging a conviction or sentence related to a drug possession, trafficking or use charge.

Appeals Against Fraud and Financial Crime Convictions

Challenging convictions linked to fraud, breach of trust or other financial crime charges.

Appeals Against Assault and Dispute Convictions

Challenging convictions arising from physical altercations or personal disputes.

Appeals Against Traffic Offense Convictions

Challenging convictions and sentences linked to serious traffic violations or accidents.

Cassation Appeals

Taking a case to the Court of Cassation after an unsuccessful first appeal, focused on how the law was applied.

Deportation Order Appeals

Challenging a deportation order that is connected to a criminal conviction.

Dubai Courts

UAE Ministry of Justice

Abu Dhabi Courts

Dubai Chamber of Commerce

How to Remove Custody From a Father in the UAE?

Who Pays a Child’s Education Expenses in the UAE?

How to Remove a Legal Guardian in the UAE

How to Remove Custody From a Father in the UAE?

Who Pays a Child’s Education Expenses in the UAE?

How to Remove a Legal Guardian in the UAE

Arabic

English

Russian

Urdu

Turkish

Hindi

UNDERSTANDING CRIMINAL APPEAL LAW IN DUBAI

How Criminal Appeals Work Under UAE Law

Criminal appeals in the UAE are mainly governed by Federal Decree Law No. 38 of 2022 on Criminal Procedure. The law sets out strict deadlines for filing an appeal after a judgment, along with the structure for moving a case from the Court of First Instance to the Court of Appeal, and in some cases, on to the Court of Cassation.

Grounds for a Criminal Appeal

An appeal is not automatic, and it must be based on valid legal grounds. Common grounds include a misinterpretation of the law, insufficient evidence to support the conviction, a procedural violation that affected the defendant’s rights, or a sentence that is not proportionate to the offense.

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

WHAT WE HANDLE

Appeals Before the Court of Appeal

If you were convicted by the Criminal Court of First Instance, we review the judgment and file a formal appeal before the Dubai Court of Appeal within the legal deadline.

Appeals Before the Court of Cassation

If your first appeal was unsuccessful, we assess whether a further appeal before the Court of Cassation is possible, focusing on how the law was applied to your case.

Sentence Reduction Applications

Where a full appeal is not the right path, we prepare applications focused specifically on reducing the sentence based on the facts and circumstances of your case.

CRITICAL SECTION

Appeal deadlines are short and strictly enforced, missing one can permanently close your right to appeal.
An appeal is not guaranteed to succeed, it depends entirely on whether valid legal grounds exist.
The Court of Appeal can review both facts and law, while the Court of Cassation only reviews how the law was applied.
Whether you remain detained during an appeal depends on the type of case and its legal classification.
In some cases, a deportation order linked to a conviction can also be reviewed through an appeal.
New evidence can sometimes be introduced, but this depends heavily on the stage of the appeal process.

Not sure whether your case has valid grounds for appeal? Contact our lawyers in Dubai. We review your judgment and tell you clearly what your chances look like.

FOR FOREIGNERS

A criminal conviction can lead to a deportation order, and in some cases this order can be reviewed as part of an appeal.
Whether you remain in detention during the appeal depends on the nature of the conviction and its legal classification.
You have the right to a lawyer and the right to an interpreter throughout the appeal process.
Family members abroad can instruct a lawyer in Dubai on your behalf while you are in custody.
Corporate professionals facing a conviction linked to their work can also appeal, and the case is handled with the same structured process.
Acting quickly matters even more for foreigners, since a final conviction can affect visa status and the ability to remain in the UAE.
Can deportation orders be challenged through a criminal appeal in Dubai? In some cases, yes. A deportation order linked to a conviction can be reviewed as part of the appeal process. Speak to a lawyer immediately to find out if this applies to your situation.

Client Experience

      
 Excellent4.954 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent54 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed 
 12 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 
 14 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 
 17 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 
 20 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 
 20 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 
 20 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 
 20 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 
 21 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 
 33 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 
 35 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 
 37 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 
 41 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 
 49 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 
 65 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 
 76 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 
 79 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 
 80 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 
 80 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 
 80 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and professional
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Donald Mahobele 
 84 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 
 117 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 
 229 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ممتازين
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mirna Kbbeh 
 234 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 
 235 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 
 246 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 
 247 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 
 247 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 
 274 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 
 277 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.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Саид Ахтаев 
 285 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Leaders Legal Consultancy is an excellent legal firm in Dubai. They helped us resolve a very complex case that had been unresolved for almost 10 years, and they managed to do it in a surprisingly short time, including recovering the funds.

Special thanks to Faris and Ekaterina — highly professional, knowledgeable, and very reliable. From the first consultation, it was clear that we were in good hands.

I can confidently recommend this team, and from now on all our legal matters in Dubai will be handled only with Leaders Legal Consultancy.

FAQS

Who is the best criminal appeal lawyer in Dubai?

The right criminal appeal lawyer for your case is one who reviews your judgment honestly, has direct experience with both the Court of Appeal and the Court of Cassation, and can act immediately given how short appeal deadlines are.

How long do I have to file an appeal in Dubai?

Appeal deadlines are short and set by Federal Decree Law No. 38 of 2022. The exact number of days depends on the type of case, so get legal advice immediately after a judgment is issued.

Can a sentence be reduced on appeal?

Yes, if there are valid grounds to support it, such as being a first time offender, showing cooperation during the investigation, or personal circumstances that the original court did not fully consider.

What is the Court of Cassation?

The Court of Cassation is a higher court that reviews how the law was applied in a case, rather than reassessing the facts again. It is usually the next step after an unsuccessful appeal.

Is a criminal appeal automatic after a conviction?

No. A formal appeal memorandum must be prepared and filed within the legal deadline. Nothing happens automatically, so a lawyer needs to act quickly.

Can deportation orders be challenged on appeal?

In some cases, yes. A deportation order linked to a criminal conviction can be reviewed as part of the appeal process.

Do I need a lawyer to file a criminal appeal in Dubai?

It is strongly recommended. An appeal requires structured legal drafting and strict compliance with procedure, and a well prepared memorandum significantly improves the chances of a good outcome.

Will I stay in prison while my appeal is being heard?

This depends on the type of case and its legal classification. Some cases allow for release during the appeal process, while others do not.

What happens if my first appeal is rejected?

You may be able to take the case further to the Court of Cassation, depending on the grounds available and whether the case qualifies for that level of review.

How much does a criminal appeal cost in Dubai?

Costs depend on the complexity of the original case, the length of the judgment, the volume of evidence, and whether the case is going to the Court of Appeal or further to the Court of Cassation. A lawyer can give you a clear fee structure after reviewing your case.

What should I do if a family member was just convicted in Dubai?

Contact a criminal appeal lawyer immediately. Appeal deadlines are short, so getting the judgment reviewed within days, not weeks, gives your family member the best chance.

Is an appeal guaranteed to succeed?

No. An appeal depends entirely on whether valid legal grounds exist in your case. A lawyer reviews the judgment honestly before advising you on your real chances.

Can new evidence be introduced during a criminal appeal?

In certain cases, limited new evidence can be submitted, depending on the stage of the appeal and the type of case. This is assessed individually.

How long does a criminal appeal take in Dubai?

Every case is different, but as a general guide, appeal preparation takes about one to three weeks, Court of Appeal review takes about two to six months, and Court of Cassation review adds further months beyond that. Complex cases involving financial crime or serious criminal charges often take longer to review.

What happens step by step during a criminal appeal in Dubai?

We start with a detailed review of the judgment, the evidence considered, the legal interpretation applied, and how the sentence was decided. We then identify whether the law was misapplied, the evidence was insufficient, procedure violated your rights, or the sentence was disproportionate. We prepare and submit the formal appeal memorandum within the legal deadline, then represent you at the hearings before the Court of Appeal, or the Court of Cassation if the case reaches that stage. Outcomes can include a sentence reduction, confirmation of the original judgment, a partial modification, or the case being sent back for review.

Whether you have just been convicted, believe your sentence is too harsh, or need to take your case to cassation, our criminal appeal lawyers in Dubai are ready to help. Missing the legal deadline can permanently close your options, so do not wait. Your consultation is completely confidential. Contact us today.

Best Criminal Appeal Lawyer in Dubai

Best Criminal Appeal Lawyer in Dubai | Challenge Your Conviction or Sentence

Appeal and Cassation Covered

20+ years

Award-winning

5 Languages

GLOBAL 100 • 2026

The Strategist 2026

Women in leadership - 2026

BWM • 2026

GLOBAL 100 • 2026

Women in leadership - 2026

The Strategist 2026

BWM • 2026

Video Client Reviews

What Should You Do After a Criminal Judgment in Dubai?

How long do I have to file a criminal appeal in Dubai?

Can a sentence be reduced without a full appeal?

What is the difference between the Court of Appeal and the Court of Cassation?

Is This Your Situation Right Now?

I was just convicted and I am not sure if I can appeal.

I believe the court made a legal mistake in my case.

I think my sentence is too harsh for what actually happened.

My appeal deadline is coming up soon and I need urgent help.

I lost my first appeal and want to know about taking the case to cassation.

I am a foreigner convicted in Dubai and worried about deportation.

A family member was convicted and I want to help them appeal.

I want to understand my real chances before I decide to appeal.

Why Clients Choose Leaders Advocates as Their Criminal Appeal Lawyers in Dubai

We Build Structured, Detailed Appeals.

We Handle Both Appeal and Cassation.

We Move Fast Against Strict Deadlines.

We Speak Your Language.

Award Winning Legal Practice.

Common Criminal Appeal Cases We Handle in Dubai

Appeals Against Drug Convictions

Appeals Against Fraud and Financial Crime Convictions

Appeals Against Assault and Dispute Convictions

Appeals Against Traffic Offense Convictions

Cassation Appeals

Deportation Order Appeals

Video Client Reviews

Discuss Your Criminal Case

Meet Your Lawyers

Faris Raian

Ekaterina Butseva

Frengie Samaan

Trust & Recognition

Dubai Courts

UAE Ministry of Justice

Abu Dhabi Courts

Dubai Chamber of Commerce

Related Practice Areas

How to Remove Custody From a Father in the UAE?

Who Pays a Child’s Education Expenses in the UAE?

How to Remove a Legal Guardian in the UAE

Related Guides

How to Remove Custody From a Father in the UAE?

Who Pays a Child’s Education Expenses in the UAE?

How to Remove a Legal Guardian in the UAE

Languages We Speak

Arabic

English

Russian

Urdu

Turkish

Hindi

UNDERSTANDING CRIMINAL APPEAL LAW IN DUBAI

Understanding Criminal Appeal Law in Dubai

How Criminal Appeals Work Under UAE Law

Grounds for a Criminal Appeal

Criminal Appeal Legal Services Our Lawyers in Dubai Handle

Appeals Before the Court of Appeal

Appeals Before the Court of Cassation

Sentence Reduction Applications

Key Things to Know About Criminal Appeals in the UAE

Criminal Appeal Cases for Foreigners in Dubai

What Our Clients Say

Questions Our Criminal Appeal Lawyer in Dubai Get Asked Every Day

Who is the best criminal appeal lawyer in Dubai?

Act Immediately, Appeal Deadlines Are Strict
Contact to Our Criminal Appeal Lawyers in Dubai!