Domestic Violence Dubai

If you or someone you love is in a dangerous situation at home, the law in the UAE is on your side. Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 gives you the right to a protection order, safe housing, legal support, and the ability to take criminal and civil action against the person harming you. Our domestic violence lawyers in Dubai handle every step with complete confidentiality and urgency. Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi speaking team.

20+ years

Family Law in Dubai and the UAE

All Represented

Victims, Children, and Accused Parties

6 Languages

Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi

Awards

Award-Winning Family Law Firm

Quick help

If you are in immediate physical danger, call Dubai Police on 999 right now. Do not wait. The steps below apply once you are safe.

Domestic violence situations are different for every person. Tell us which of these matches yours and we will tell you exactly what steps to take.

I am being physically hurt by my spouse or a family member, and I need to get out safely.

My partner controls all the money, and I have no access to funds or documents.

I am being threatened, or I live in fear of what might happen if I try to leave.

My children are being harmed or are witnessing abuse in the home.

I want to leave, but I do not know what will happen to my visa or my right to stay in the UAE.

I have left, but the abuser is still contacting me, and I need a court order to stop this.

I am a domestic worker, and I am being mistreated by the family I work for.

I have been accused of domestic violence, and the accusation is not true.

If any of these match your situation, contact our domestic violence lawyers in Dubai. We treat every case with complete confidentiality.

Domestic abuse takes many forms. Here are the specific situations our domestic violence lawyers handle in Dubai.

Psychological & Emotional Abuse

Threats, constant humiliation, isolation from family and friends, controlling behavior, monitoring your movements and communications, emotional manipulation, and intimidation. Psychological abuse is now fully recognized under Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024. You do not need physical injuries to file for a protection order.

Economic Abuse & Financial Control

Preventing you from working, controlling all money, refusing to give you money for basic needs, using debt as a tool of control or withholding your salary. Economic abuse is a form of domestic violence under the 2024 law. We advise on both the domestic violence claim and the financial remedies available in parallel proceedings.

Child Abuse Within the Family

Any harm to a child by a family member is covered under the 2024 law. Children can be protected through emergency protection orders, and the family courts run parallel proceedings on custody when domestic violence involving children is reported. We handle the full picture, including protection and custody, simultaneously.

Physical Abuse and Assault

Hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, throwing objects, or any physical harm inflicted by a family member. Physical abuse often leaves visible evidence. We advise on preserving and using that evidence in criminal and protection order proceedings.

Abuse Against Domestic Workers

Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 specifically extended protection to domestic workers employed in the household. Abuse of a domestic helper by any family member is now covered under the domestic violence law. We represent domestic workers who have suffered abuse and advise on both the domestic violence complaint and any employment claims.

Defending False Domestic Violence Allegations

Not every allegation of domestic violence is accurate. People accused of domestic violence have the right to a full defense. We represent individuals who have been falsely accused of domestic violence, challenge the evidence presented against them, and protect their rights in all proceedings.

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

Domestic Violence Law

4 Types of Domestic Violence Recognized by UAE Law

The 2024 law recognizes four distinct forms of domestic violence. Physical violence covers any bodily harm, including hitting, pushing, throwing objects, or any physical assault within the family. Psychological violence covers threats, humiliation, intimidation, isolation, controlling behavior, and emotional manipulation that causes mental harm. Sexual violence covers any non-consensual sexual act within the family relationship. Economic violence covers financial control, preventing access to money, forcing someone into debt or stopping them from working as a way of exerting power and control.

Who Is Protected Under This Law

The 2024 law extended protection significantly beyond the previous 2019 law. Protection now covers spouses and former spouses, children of the family, parents and grandparents, siblings, domestic workers employed in the household, and any other person living permanently in the family home. This means domestic helpers and live-in caregivers are protected under this law for the first time. Expats have exactly the same rights as UAE nationals under this law.

Domestic violence is not always physical. If someone in your home is controlling your money, isolating you from friends, threatening you, or humiliating you, this may be domestic violence under UAE law. Contact our domestic violence lawyers in Dubai to discuss your situation in complete confidence.

EMERGENCY NOTICE

If you are in immediate physical danger, call Dubai Police on 999 right now. Do not wait. The steps below apply once you are safe.

Safe Steps to Take When You Are Ready

Get to a safe place. Go to a family member, a trusted friend, or contact the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children, which provides shelter and support on 800 111.
Document the evidence. Take photographs of injuries, save threatening messages, note dates and descriptions of incidents. This evidence is critical for both the protection order application and any criminal case.
Do not delete messages or communications from the abuser. These are evidence and will support your legal case.
Contact a domestic violence lawyer before you speak to anyone else officially. The steps you take in the first days significantly affect your legal position and your safety.
You do not have to leave your home to be protected. A restraining order can require the abuser to leave the family home while allowing you to stay.

Your safety comes before everything. Once you are safe, contact our domestic violence lawyers in Dubai. We act fast, we keep everything confidential, and we guide you through every step.

What a Protection Order Does

A protection order is a court order that legally prohibits the abuser from approaching you, contacting you, or entering your home. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024, the Public Prosecution can issue a restraining order within days of receiving a domestic violence report. This order lasts for up to 30 days and can be extended for two further similar periods. If protection is needed beyond that, the competent court can extend the order for up to 6 months. Violating a protection order is a separate criminal offense with additional penalties.

How to Apply for a Protection Order in Dubai

A protection order can be requested by the victim directly, by the public prosecution, by the Ministry of Community Development, by a social support center, or by any competent authority. You do not need to file a full criminal case first. The prosecution can issue an urgent restraining order before any criminal proceedings begin. The process is designed to be accessible to victims who may be in immediate danger. We prepare and file the protection order application and attend all proceedings with you.

What a Protection Order Can and Cannot Do

A protection order can require the abuser to leave the family home even if they own or rent it. It can prohibit contact by any means, including phone, message, and social media. It can prevent the abuser from coming near your workplace, your children’s school, or any other specified location. What it cannot do automatically is resolve divorce, custody, or financial matters. These run as separate proceedings. We handle all of these in parallel where needed.

Childrens

Children who witness domestic violence are also victims of it under UAE law. Their protection is handled in parallel with the protection order for the adult victim. Here is how we protect children in domestic violence situations.

Emergency protection orders can cover children as well as adult victims. The order can prohibit the abuser from approaching the children at school or at any other location.
The family court that handles custody proceedings considers domestic violence evidence very seriously. A parent with a documented history of domestic violence faces a much harder time arguing for custody.
Children can be interviewed by a court-appointed social worker or psychologist as part of both the domestic violence and custody proceedings. We prepare you and your children appropriately for these assessments.
If there is a risk the abuser might try to take the children abroad, we apply for a travel ban on the children immediately as part of the emergency legal steps.
You do not need to make the decision about divorce before protecting your children. Protection order applications for children run independently of any divorce decision.

Domestic Violence Law

The 2024 Law

Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 replaced the 2019 domestic violence law and came into force on 2 October 2024. The new law matters because it expanded the definition of abuse to include more detailed criteria for each type, it extended protection to domestic workers who were not covered before, it introduced mandatory reporting obligations for certain professionals, it established provisions for safe houses and rehabilitation programs, and it made clear that failing to report a known domestic violence situation carries a fine of up to AED 20,000. This law is one of the strongest domestic violence frameworks in the region.

Criminal vs. Civil Proceedings

When you report domestic violence in Dubai, two types of legal proceedings can run at the same time. The criminal case is handled by the public prosecution and can result in the abuser being fined or imprisoned. The civil proceedings run through the family courts and can cover divorce, custody of children, maintenance payments, and the right to remain in the family home. We manage both tracks simultaneously so you are protected on every front. Most victims benefit from pursuing both routes.

Not sure whether to file a police report or go straight to court? We advise on the right route for your specific situation and make sure you are protected at every stage of the process.

WHY LEADERS ADVOCATES?

Complete Confidentiality

Domestic violence cases require absolute discretion. At Leaders Advocates, nothing you tell us leaves this firm. Every domestic violence case is handled by a single named lawyer and their direct team. We do not discuss client situations with anyone outside the case.

We Handle Protection and Family Law Together

Many domestic violence clients have to deal with multiple law firms at the same time. One for the criminal case, one for divorce, and one for custody. Leaders Advocates handles all of it. Protection orders, criminal proceedings, divorce, custody, and maintenance all under one roof. You have one point of contact for everything.

6 Languages | No Translator Needed

Domestic violence victims often struggle to speak about their situation even in their first language. Being forced to explain through a translator makes it harder. Our lawyers speak Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Turkish and Hindi. You tell us what happened in the language you are most comfortable in.

Award-Winning Family Law Practice

Leaders Advocates has been recognized for excellence in UAE family law. When your safety and future are at stake, you deserve lawyers with a track record that speaks for itself. We have helped families across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and RAK through the most difficult situations imaginable.

The Process

Safety Assessment and Immediate Advice

We assess your immediate safety situation first. If you are still in the home with the abuser or the threat is ongoing, we advise on the fastest legal steps to create physical separation. We also advise on what evidence to gather, what to document, and what not to do that could complicate your case.

Filing the Police Report and Protection Order Application

We file the police report with Dubai Police on your behalf or accompany you to the police station. We prepare the protection order application for the public prosecution simultaneously. The prosecution can issue a restraining order within days. We make sure the application is complete and supported by all available evidence so it is approved quickly.

Medical Examination, if Applicable

If there are physical injuries, a medical report from a UAE-approved medical center is important evidence. We advise on which facilities are approved and what the medical report should document. The medical report is submitted to the prosecution alongside the police report under the 2024 law.

Parallel Proceedings | Divorce, Custody, Maintenance

While the criminal case proceeds, we file the related family law proceedings. This includes the divorce application if you choose to divorce, the custody application for your children, the maintenance claim, and the application to remain in the family home. We handle all of these in parallel so you do not lose time on any of them.

Court Hearings and Final Judgment

We represent you at every criminal hearing and every family court hearing. We challenge the abuser's evidence, present your evidence clearly, and make sure the court has the full picture. When the criminal judgment is issued and the family court orders are in place, we apply for enforcement of all orders immediately.

For Expats

One of the most common reasons expat victims stay in dangerous situations in Dubai is fear of what happens to their visa if they leave or if their spouse is arrested. This fear is understandable, but it should not stop you from getting help. Here is the reality.

You do not lose your legal right to be in the UAE just because you report domestic violence. You have the right to safety and legal protection regardless of your visa status.
If your visa is sponsored by the abuser, you have options. You can apply for an independent visa during divorce proceedings. The court can make orders to protect your right to remain in the UAE while family law cases are ongoing.
Your children’s visa status is also protected during legal proceedings. We advise on how to secure the right visa arrangements for you and your children as part of the overall domestic violence and divorce strategy.
If you need emergency shelter while your legal situation is being resolved, the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children provides confidential accommodation on 800 111. Your visa status does not affect your right to access this support.
Expats from any country have exactly the same rights under Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 as UAE nationals. Your nationality does not limit your access to legal protection.

Worried about your visa if you report domestic violence in Dubai? Contact us. Your safety matters more than your visa status, and there are legal steps to protect both. We advise on this as part of our domestic violence support.

Client Experience

      
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   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.
  
 
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   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.

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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.

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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.

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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.

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   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
  
 
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   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.

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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.

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   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.......
  
 
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   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.
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I highly recommend Leaders Advocates to anyone in Dubai who needs legal assistance, especially in real estate matters.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   Mohamed Hassan 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and professional
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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 :)
  
 
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   Nadine Ibrahim 
 233 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ممتازين
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.

Alternatives

Legal help is one part of what you need. Here are the other support resources available to domestic violence victims in Dubai.

Dubai Foundation for Women and Children

Emergency shelter and support for women and children experiencing domestic violence. Helpline: 800 111. Available 24 hours.

Dubai Police Family Support Centre

Specialist unit for domestic violence cases within Dubai Police. File reports and receive immediate safety support.

Ministry of Community Development

Oversees domestic violence response in the UAE and can refer victims to social support centers and safe housing.

Public Prosecution

Can issue emergency protection orders directly in urgent domestic violence situations without requiring a court hearing first.

These resources are available to you right now without needing a lawyer first. Once you are safe, contact our domestic violence lawyers in Dubai. We take over from there.

FAQs

Can I be deported from the UAE if I report domestic violence?

No. Reporting domestic violence does not lead to your deportation. You have the right to report abuse and seek protection regardless of your nationality or visa status. The UAE domestic violence law applies equally to all residents. If your visa was sponsored by the abuser, there are legal steps to protect your right to remain in the UAE. Contact us for specific advice on your visa situation.

Does the abuser get arrested immediately when I report domestic violence?

Not automatically. The police investigate the report first. If there is evidence of violence and an immediate safety risk, the police can detain the abuser while the investigation runs. The Public Prosecution can issue an emergency protection order quickly. The specific outcome depends on the evidence, the severity of the abuse and the immediate risk assessment. We advise you on what to expect before you make the report.

What evidence do I need to report domestic violence in Dubai?

Any evidence helps. Medical reports of injuries. Photographs of physical harm. Threatening or abusive messages. Records of calls or incidents with dates and descriptions. Witness statements from neighbours, friends or family members. Bank records if the abuse is financial. You do not need to have everything before you report. Even a single piece of evidence with a clear account of what happened is enough to start the process. We help you identify and preserve the evidence you have.

Can psychological abuse lead to a protection order in Dubai?

Yes. Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 specifically covers psychological violence including threats, humiliation, isolation and emotional manipulation. You do not need physical injuries to be granted a protection order. We have successfully obtained protection orders on grounds of psychological abuse in Dubai.

What happens to my children if I leave the abusive home?

Your children can leave with you if you have custody rights or if there is an emergency. We advise on how to leave safely with your children without putting your custody position at risk. We file emergency custody applications and travel bans simultaneously with the protection order application so your children are protected legally from the moment you leave.

Can a domestic worker report domestic violence in Dubai?

Yes. Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024 specifically extends protection to domestic workers employed in the household. If you are a domestic worker being mistreated by any member of the family you work for, you have the same right to report and seek protection as any other resident. Contact us or contact the domestic worker support line at the Ministry of Human Resources.

I reported domestic violence but later want to withdraw the complaint. Can I?

The 2024 law allows for reconciliation in domestic violence cases when both parties or their legal representatives agree and the process is handled formally with a social worker involved. However, withdrawing a complaint does not automatically end the legal proceedings. The Public Prosecution can decide to continue the case even if the victim withdraws. We advise on the implications of withdrawal and whether it is in your best interests before you take any steps.

What are the penalties for domestic violence in Dubai?

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024, penalties for domestic violence include imprisonment and fines. Violating a protection order is a separate criminal offence with additional penalties. Repeat offenders and those who commit aggravated forms of abuse face significantly higher penalties than first-time offenders. The specific penalty depends on the type of abuse, its severity, and any criminal history.

Can I get a divorce because of domestic violence in Dubai?

Yes. Domestic violence is a ground for divorce in Dubai. Evidence of abuse strengthens a divorce and custody case significantly. The criminal proceedings and the divorce proceedings can and should run simultaneously. We file both at the same time so you are advancing on all fronts. Evidence used in the criminal case can also be used in the family court proceedings.

How do I know if what is happening to me is legally domestic violence in Dubai?

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2024, domestic violence covers physical harm, psychological harm, sexual harm and economic control within a family relationship. If someone in your family is hurting you physically, threatening you, controlling your money, isolating you, humiliating you or preventing you from living safely and independently, this may be domestic violence under UAE law. Contact us. We assess your situation in complete confidence and tell you honestly what legal options you have.

You do not have to stay in a dangerous situation. UAE law gives you real protection and real options. Whether you need an emergency protection order, legal help leaving safely, or representation in all the proceedings that follow, our domestic violence lawyers in Dubai are ready. Contact us now. Everything is confidential.

Domestic Violence Lawyers in Dubai

Domestic Violence Lawyers in Dubai | Protecting Your Rights

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GLOBAL 100 • 2026

Women in leadership - 2026

The Strategist 2026

BWM • 2026

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If You Are in Danger Right Now

Is This Your Situation?

I am being physically hurt by my spouse or a family member, and I need to get out safely.

My partner controls all the money, and I have no access to funds or documents.

I am being threatened, or I live in fear of what might happen if I try to leave.

My children are being harmed or are witnessing abuse in the home.

I want to leave, but I do not know what will happen to my visa or my right to stay in the UAE.

I have left, but the abuser is still contacting me, and I need a court order to stop this.

I am a domestic worker, and I am being mistreated by the family I work for.

I have been accused of domestic violence, and the accusation is not true.

Types of Domestic Violence In Dubai

Psychological & Emotional Abuse

Economic Abuse & Financial Control

Child Abuse Within the Family

Physical Abuse and Assault

Abuse Against Domestic Workers

Defending False Domestic Violence Allegations

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Discuss Your Family 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

International Maritime Debt Recovery Through UAE Courts

Correcting an Invalid Marriage Under UAE

Effects of a Defective Marriage Under UAE

Related Guides

International Maritime Debt Recovery Through UAE Courts

Correcting an Invalid Marriage Under UAE

Effects of a Defective Marriage Under UAE

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Domestic Violence Law

Domestic Violence Under UAE Law

4 Types of Domestic Violence Recognized by UAE Law

Who Is Protected Under This Law

If You Are in Danger Right Now?

Safe Steps to Take When You Are Ready

Protection Orders in Dubai

What a Protection Order Does

How to Apply for a Protection Order in Dubai

What a Protection Order Can and Cannot Do

Protecting Your Children During Domestic Violence In Dubai

How UAE Domestic Violence Law Works

The 2024 Law

Criminal vs. Civil Proceedings

Why Choose Our Domestic Violence Lawyers in Dubai

Complete Confidentiality

We Handle Protection and Family Law Together

6 Languages | No Translator Needed

Award-Winning Family Law Practice

Legal Process for Domestic Violence Cases in Dubai

Safety Assessment and Immediate Advice

Filing the Police Report and Protection Order Application

Medical Examination, if Applicable

Need Immediate Legal Help?
Speak With Our Domestic Violence Lawyers in Dubai Today!