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.

Money Laundering Lawyers in Dubai

Money Laundering Law · Dubai

Money laundering is treated as one of the most serious financial crimes in the UAE, and the law now covers crypto and digital transactions directly, not just cash. Whether you are under investigation, your bank account has been frozen, your business needs anti money laundering compliance support, or you are facing a charge linked to cryptocurrency, you need experienced money laundering lawyers in Dubai acting quickly. Our team defends individuals and companies in AML cases across the UAE, in five languages.

AML Cases Covered

Investigations, crypto cases, compliance and asset freezes

20+ years

handling money laundering and financial crime cases in the UAE

Award-winning

Recognised financial crime and dispute law firm

Multilingual

Arabic, English, Russian, Hindi, Urdu and Turkish

QUICK ANSWER

Money laundering in the UAE is governed by Federal Decree Law No. 10 of 2025, a new law that took effect in October 2025 and replaced the older 2018 AML law. It covers hiding, converting or moving money that came from criminal activity to make it look legitimate, and it now explicitly covers digital systems, cryptocurrency and virtual assets, not just cash and bank transfers.

Money laundering is always treated as its own separate crime. This means a person can be punished for money laundering in addition to whatever crime the money came from, which often leads to much heavier overall penalties than many people expect.

UAE law treats money laundering as an independent offense, separate from whatever crime generated the money in the first place. This means a person accused of fraud or another financial crime can also be charged with money laundering on top of it, and being cleared of the original crime does not automatically clear the money laundering charge. This is one of the main reasons these cases need a lawyer who understands both sides of the case, not just one.

Standard money laundering can lead to one to ten years in prison and a fine of at least AED 100,000, up to AED 5,000,000 or the value of the laundered funds, whichever is higher. Cases involving aggravating circumstances can lead to life imprisonment or ten or more years in prison, with fines between AED 300,000 and AED 10,000,000.

Yes. The new AML law explicitly covers virtual assets and digital systems. Promoting or dealing in completely anonymous virtual assets is itself a separate offense, carrying at least three months in prison and a fine of at least AED 50,000.

Yes. A company can face serious penalties for compliance failures, such as weak reporting systems or missing due diligence checks, even if no one is convicted of laundering money directly.

IS THIS YOUR SITUATION?

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

I am under investigation for money laundering.

My bank account has been frozen over a suspicious transaction report.

My business is facing an anti money laundering compliance review.

I have been accused of money laundering linked to cryptocurrency.

I need help setting up anti money laundering compliance for my company.

I am an executive facing personal liability for my company's AML failure.

My assets have been frozen as part of a money laundering case.

I want a second opinion on a money laundering charge I am already facing.

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

WHY LEADERS ADVOCATES

We Understand Complex Financial Investigations.

Money laundering cases often involve bank records, company accounts and transaction trails across more than one country. We work through this evidence carefully to build a case that stands up under UAE law.

We Handle Crypto and Digital Asset Cases.

As UAE law now covers virtual assets directly, we stay current on how cryptocurrency and digital transactions are treated in money laundering cases, so your defense reflects the latest legal framework.

We Defend Both Individuals and Companies.

Whether you are personally accused, or your company is facing a compliance review or investigation, we represent your interests and explain exactly what it means for you.

We Speak Your Language.

Our lawyers speak Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu and Turkish. A money laundering case is stressful enough without a language barrier.

Award Winning Legal Practice.

Leaders Advocates has been recognised for excellence in financial crime and dispute law in the UAE. When you hire us, you are working with a firm that clients trust with serious financial matters.

CRITICAL SECTION

Every case gets a named lawyer from day one.

Money Laundering Investigations

Cases where a person or business is being investigated over the source of funds, often triggered by a suspicious transaction report filed by a bank or financial institution.

Money Laundering Involving Cryptocurrency

Cases involving the use of digital currency, crypto exchanges or anonymous virtual assets to move or disguise funds, now explicitly covered under UAE AML law.

Beneficial Ownership and Disclosure Cases

Cases involving incorrect or misleading information about who actually owns or controls a company, which is treated as a separate offense under the law.

Compliance Failures and Regulatory Reviews

Cases where a business is reviewed for weak AML systems, missing due diligence checks or failure to report suspicious activity, even without a direct money laundering charge.

Asset Freezing and Confiscation Cases

Cases involving a frozen bank account or other assets linked to a money laundering investigation, before any final conviction has taken place.

Aggravated Money Laundering Cases

Cases involving larger sums, organised schemes or repeat conduct, which can carry life imprisonment or ten or more years in prison under the new law.

20+ years

White Collar Crime Lawyers in Dubai

Fraud Lawyers in Dubai

Crypto Lawyer Dubai

How Long Does Divorce Take in Dubai

What Is Khula and How It Works

Domestic Violence Lawyer Dubai

Arabic

English

Russian

Urdu

Turkish

UNDERSTANDING MONEY LAUNDERING LAW IN DUBAI

How UAE Law Defines Money Laundering

Money laundering in the UAE is now governed by Federal Decree Law No. 10 of 2025, which took effect in October 2025 and replaced the earlier Federal Decree Law No. 20 of 2018. The law defines money laundering as acquiring, possessing, using, converting or moving funds known to come from criminal activity, and it now explicitly covers digital systems, virtual assets and cryptographic technologies.

Penalties for Money Laundering in the UAE

Standard money laundering carries one to ten years in prison and a fine of at least AED 100,000, up to AED 5,000,000 or the value of the funds involved, whichever is higher. Cases with aggravating circumstances can lead to life imprisonment or ten or more years in prison, with fines between AED 300,000 and AED 10,000,000. Dealing in completely anonymous virtual assets carries its own separate penalty of at least three months in prison and a fine of at least AED 50,000.

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

WHAT WE HANDLE

Defending Against a Money Laundering Charge

If you have been accused of money laundering, we review the evidence against you, challenge weak or unclear claims, and represent you from the first interview through to the final court hearing.

Anti Money Laundering Compliance Advisory

We help businesses build and strengthen their AML compliance programs, including reporting procedures, due diligence checks and staff training, to reduce the risk of a future investigation.

Asset Freeze and Recovery

If your bank account or other assets have been frozen as part of an AML case, we work to understand why, challenge the freeze where possible, and pursue recovery once the matter is resolved.

CRITICAL SECTION

Money laundering is treated as an independent crime, so a person can be punished for it even alongside another charge.
The law now explicitly covers digital assets, cryptocurrency and online transfers, not just cash.
Dealing in a completely anonymous virtual asset is itself a separate offense under the new law.
A business, not only an individual, can face serious penalties for an AML compliance failure.
Bank accounts and other assets can be frozen early in an investigation, before any formal conviction.
Giving false information about who really owns or controls a company is a separate offense under UAE law.

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

FOR INDIVIDUALS

An executive or manager can face personal liability for a company’s AML failures, not just the company itself.
A frozen bank account during an investigation does not always mean a conviction is coming, but it does need an urgent response.
A money laundering conviction can lead to deportation for expats, in addition to any prison sentence or fine.
Receiving money from a family member or business partner without knowing its source can still raise questions that need a clear legal response.
You have the right to a lawyer and the right to an interpreter during questioning and court proceedings.
Acting quickly and transparently with a lawyer’s guidance generally leads to a better outcome than waiting.

Can I be investigated for money laundering just because of a large bank transfer? A large or unusual transfer can trigger a suspicious transaction report from your bank, which can lead to a review or investigation. This does not mean you have done anything wrong, but it is important to respond to any questions through a lawyer.

Client Experience

      
 Excellent4.954 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent54 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ahmed 
 8 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 
 10 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 
 13 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 
 16 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 
 16 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 
 16 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 
 16 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 
 17 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 
 29 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 
 31 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 
 33 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 
 37 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 
 45 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 
 61 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 
 72 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 
 75 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 
 76 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 
 76 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 
 76 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very helpful and professional
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Donald Mahobele 
 80 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 
 113 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 
 225 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ممتازين
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mirna Kbbeh 
 230 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 
 231 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 
 242 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 
 243 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 
 243 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 
 270 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 
 273 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 
 281 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

What is the punishment for money laundering in the UAE?

Standard money laundering carries one to ten years in prison and a fine of at least AED 100,000, up to AED 5,000,000 or the value of the funds involved, whichever is higher. Aggravated cases can lead to life imprisonment or ten or more years in prison.

Is money laundering through cryptocurrency illegal in the UAE?

Yes. The new UAE AML law explicitly covers virtual assets and digital systems, and dealing in completely anonymous virtual assets is itself a separate offense with its own penalty.

What is the difference between money laundering and the original crime that created the money?

UAE law treats money laundering as an independent offense. This means a person can be punished for money laundering in addition to the original crime, such as fraud or embezzlement, rather than the two being treated as one charge.

Can my bank account be frozen without me being convicted of anything?

Yes. A bank or authority can freeze an account during an investigation, based on a suspicious transaction report, well before any conviction takes place.

Can a company be punished for money laundering even if no one is personally convicted?

Yes. A company can face serious penalties for weak AML compliance, such as poor reporting systems or missing checks, separately from any individual conviction.

Can an employee or executive go to jail for their company's money laundering failures?

Yes, in some cases. Directors and senior managers can face personal liability if they were responsible for or aware of compliance failures within the company.

What should I do if my bank asks questions about a large transfer?

Respond honestly and promptly, and consider speaking to a lawyer first if the questions feel serious or unclear, since how you respond can affect whether the matter escalates.

Can I be deported for a money laundering conviction as an expat?

Yes. A money laundering conviction can lead to deportation for a foreign national, in addition to any prison sentence or fine.

What does an anti money laundering compliance lawyer actually do?

An AML compliance lawyer reviews a business’s policies, reporting procedures and due diligence checks, helps fix gaps before they become legal problems, and represents the business if a regulator opens a review.

How is cryptocurrency money laundering investigated in the UAE?

Authorities examine wallet activity, exchange records and transaction trails, similar to traditional banking investigations, but with added attention to how anonymous or hard to trace the assets involved are.

Can old transactions be investigated under the new 2025 AML law?

Generally, the law in force at the time of the activity applies, but ongoing conduct or new transactions after the law changed can fall under the new rules. A lawyer can clarify which law applies to your specific situation.

Do I need a lawyer just for an AML compliance review, or only if I am charged?

It is best to involve a lawyer as soon as a compliance review or investigation begins, not only after charges are filed, since early legal guidance can often prevent the matter from escalating.

Whether you are under investigation, your account has been frozen, your business needs stronger AML compliance, or you are facing a crypto related money laundering charge, our money laundering lawyers in Dubai are ready to help. These cases move fast, and early legal advice makes a real difference. Your consultation is completely confidential. Contact us today.