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.

Theft Lawyers in Dubai & Identity Theft Lawyers in Dubai

Theft Law · Dubai

Theft in Dubai is treated as a criminal offense no matter how small the item, and a conviction can mean prison time, a fine and deportation for expats. If you have been accused of theft, shoplifting or qualified theft, or someone has stolen your identity and used it for fraud, you need experienced theft lawyers in Dubai acting quickly. Our team defends theft and robbery accusations and represents identity theft victims across the UAE, in five languages.

Theft and Identity Theft Covered

Simple theft, aggravated theft and identity fraud

20+ years

handling theft and identity theft cases in the UAE

Award-winning

Recognised criminal defense practice in the UAE

Multilingual

Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu, Hindi and Turkish

QUICK ANSWER

UAE law splits theft into two levels, simple theft and aggravated theft, sometimes called qualified theft. Simple theft, such as a low value item taken without force, is usually treated as a misdemeanor with up to one year in prison or a fine. Aggravated or qualified theft, which involves factors like breaking in, using a weapon, acting at night, or stealing from a position of trust, is treated as a felony and can carry a sentence of two years up to life imprisonment depending on the circumstances.

Identity theft is handled under separate UAE laws covering cybercrime and consumer protection, since it usually involves personal data, bank details or online fraud rather than a physical item being taken.

Simple theft involves taking property without force or special circumstances, while aggravated or qualified theft involves factors such as breaking in, using a weapon, acting at night, or abusing a position of trust. Aggravated theft carries a much heavier sentence.

Yes. Even a first time shoplifting case can lead to deportation for an expat, regardless of how small the item was. The value of the item does not decide whether deportation happens.

Notify your bank immediately, file a police report, check your credit report for unfamiliar activity, and contact a lawyer to help you document the fraud and protect your rights.

In many theft cases, especially shoplifting and employee theft, the complainant has the right to withdraw their complaint. A lawyer can often negotiate directly with the store or employer to reach a restitution agreement, which can lead to the complaint being withdrawn before the case goes any further. This route is not available for every case, but it is worth exploring early, before the matter moves to the Public Prosecution.

IS THIS YOUR SITUATION?

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

I have been accused of theft or shoplifting in Dubai.

My employer is accusing me of stealing company property or funds.

I have been charged with aggravated or qualified theft.

Someone has stolen my identity and used it to commit fraud.

I am a foreigner and worried about deportation over a theft charge.

I was falsely accused of theft by a colleague or an employer.

I want to know if a theft complaint against me can be withdrawn.

I was robbed or had something stolen and want to file a case.

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

WHY LEADERS ADVOCATES

We Handle Every Level of Theft Charge.

From a simple shoplifting accusation to a serious aggravated or qualified theft charge, we understand how UAE law treats each level differently, and we build your defense accordingly.

We Negotiate Withdrawals Where Possible.

In many shoplifting and employee theft cases, we work directly with the complainant to reach a resolution that avoids prosecution entirely.

We Represent Identity Theft Victims.

If your identity has been stolen and used for fraud, we help you document the crime, file the right complaints, and protect your financial and personal standing.

We Speak Your Language.

Our lawyers speak Arabic, English, Russian, Urdu and Turkish. A theft accusation is stressful enough without a language barrier.

Award Winning Legal Practice.

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

CRITICAL SECTION

Every case gets a named lawyer from day one.

Petty Theft and Shoplifting

Taking a low value item without payment is still a criminal offense in Dubai, and retailers routinely report these cases to the police, even for first time incidents.

Aggravated or Qualified Theft

Theft involving higher value property, or committed with aggravating circumstances such as breaking in, acting at night, or abusing a position of trust, is treated as aggravated or qualified theft and carries a much heavier sentence.

Robbery

Robbery involves using or threatening force to take property from a person, and is treated as one of the most serious theft offenses, with sentences that can reach fifteen years or more when a weapon is involved.

Employee Theft and Misappropriation

When an employee takes money or property from their employer without permission, this can be prosecuted as both theft and breach of trust, depending on the circumstances.

Identity Theft

Using someone else’s personal information, such as their name, bank details or identification documents, to commit fraud or another crime is treated as a serious offense under UAE cybercrime and consumer protection law.

Vehicle and Property Theft

Theft involving a vehicle or other significant property is treated seriously, with the value and method of the theft affecting how the case is classified.

Dubai Courts

UAE Ministry of Justice

Abu Dhabi Courts

Dubai Chamber of Commerce

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Arabic

English

Russian

Urdu

Turkish

Hindi

UNDERSTANDING THEFT LAW IN DUBAI

How UAE Law Defines Theft

Theft in the UAE is covered under the Penal Code, which splits the offense into simple theft and aggravated or qualified theft. Simple theft usually carries up to one year in prison or a fine, while aggravated theft, involving factors like a weapon, breaking in, or abuse of trust, can carry a sentence of two years up to life imprisonment, depending on how serious the circumstances are.

Identity Theft Under UAE Law

Identity theft is addressed through the UAE Cybercrime Law, which criminalises the illegal collection, storage or use of someone else’s personal information for fraud, alongside UAE consumer protection law, which protects victims of fraudulent transactions. Those convicted of identity theft face imprisonment and significant fines, depending on the severity of the case.

Have a question about your theft case and how it may be classified? Contact our theft lawyers in Dubai. We explain it clearly in the first consultation.

WHAT WE HANDLE

Defending Against a Theft Charge

If you have been accused of theft, we review the evidence, the circumstances and the classification of the charge, and represent you from police questioning through to the final court hearing.

Identity Theft Victim Representation

If someone has used your personal information for fraud, we help you file a complaint, gather the right evidence, and pursue the people responsible.

Negotiating Withdrawal of a Theft Complaint

In many shoplifting and employee theft cases, we negotiate with the complainant to reach a restitution agreement that can lead to the complaint being withdrawn.

CRITICAL SECTION

Theft is a criminal offense in Dubai regardless of the value of the item, unlike some countries where minor theft is treated as a civil matter.
Aggravated or qualified theft, involving a weapon, breaking in, or abuse of trust, carries a much harsher sentence than simple theft.
Many shoplifting and employee theft complaints can be withdrawn through a negotiated restitution agreement.
A theft conviction can lead to deportation for expats, even for a first time, low value offense.
A theft investigation can result in a travel ban while the case is ongoing.
Identity theft is treated separately under cybercrime and consumer protection law, rather than the standard theft provisions.

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

FOR EXPATS

Deportation is possible even for a first time, low value shoplifting case, the value of the item does not decide the outcome.
A theft investigation can lead to an immediate travel ban while the case is ongoing.
Your employer may be notified if you are arrested or charged with theft.
A UAE criminal record can be shared with your home country’s authorities after deportation.
Acting quickly, before the case moves to the Public Prosecution, gives you the best chance of a negotiated resolution.
If you are the victim of identity theft as a foreigner, you can still file a complaint and pursue the people responsible.

Can a shoplifting case really lead to deportation for a small item? Yes. UAE law treats theft as a criminal offense no matter the value, and deportation is possible even for a first offense involving a low value item. Early legal help can significantly reduce this risk.

Client Experience

      
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   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.
  
 
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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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!
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.
  
 
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   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.......
  
 
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   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

What is the punishment for theft in the UAE?

It depends on whether the case is classified as simple theft or aggravated theft. Simple theft usually carries up to one year in prison or a fine, while aggravated or qualified theft can carry a sentence of two years up to life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances.

What is the penalty for shoplifting in Dubai?

Shoplifting can lead to up to one year in prison, a fine, restitution of the value of the goods, and deportation for expats, even for a first offense. The value of the item does not decide the severity of the charge.

What counts as qualified or aggravated theft in the UAE?

Theft involving factors such as breaking in, using a weapon, acting at night, or abusing a position of trust is treated as aggravated or qualified theft, which carries a much harsher sentence than simple theft.

Can a theft case in Dubai be withdrawn before it goes to court?

In many cases, yes, particularly shoplifting and employee theft. A lawyer can negotiate a restitution agreement with the complainant that can lead to the complaint being formally withdrawn.

Will I get a criminal record for a theft conviction in Dubai?

Yes. A conviction creates a criminal record in the UAE, which can also be shared with your home country’s authorities if you are deported as a result.

Can I be deported from Dubai for theft?

Yes. Deportation is possible even for a first-time, low-value theft case such as shoplifting. The outcome depends on the circumstances, not just the value of the item.

What should I do if I was falsely accused of theft by an employer or colleague?

Gather evidence of your good character and work record, do not sign any statement without legal advice, and contact a lawyer immediately to challenge the basis of the complaint.

What is identity theft under UAE law?

Identity theft happens when someone steals personal information, such as a name, bank details or identification numbers, and uses it to commit fraud. It is treated as a serious offense under UAE cybercrime and consumer protection law.

What should I do if someone has stolen my identity in Dubai?

Notify your bank immediately, file a police report, check your credit report for unfamiliar activity, and contact an identity theft lawyer to help protect your rights and pursue the people responsible.

Can I sue someone for identity theft in the UAE?

Yes. You can file a criminal complaint and, in many cases, pursue a separate civil claim to recover financial losses caused by the identity theft.

How long does a theft case take in Dubai courts?

It depends on the complexity of the case. A straightforward shoplifting case can resolve faster, sometimes through a negotiated withdrawal, while more complex theft or identity theft cases can take several months.

Do I need a lawyer if I am accused of theft in Dubai?

It is strongly recommended. A lawyer can assess whether the complaint can be withdrawn, challenge weak evidence, and protect you from the serious consequences a theft conviction can bring, including deportation.

Whether you have been accused of theft, charged with aggravated or qualified theft, or your identity has been stolen and used for fraud, our theft lawyers in Dubai are ready to help. Acting early gives you the strongest possible position. Your consultation is completely confidential. Contact us today.

Theft and Identity Theft Lawyers in Dubai

Theft and Identity Theft Lawyers in Dubai | Strong Defense and Victim Support

Theft and Identity Theft Covered

20+ years

Award-winning

Multilingual

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 Is the Punishment for Theft in the UAE?

What Is the Difference Between Simple Theft and Aggravated Theft in the UAE?

Can a Shoplifting Case in Dubai Lead to Deportation?

What Should I Do If Someone Has Stolen My Identity in Dubai?

Can a Theft Complaint Be Withdrawn in Dubai?

Is This Your Situation Right Now?

I have been accused of theft or shoplifting in Dubai.

My employer is accusing me of stealing company property or funds.

I have been charged with aggravated or qualified theft.

Someone has stolen my identity and used it to commit fraud.

I am a foreigner and worried about deportation over a theft charge.

I was falsely accused of theft by a colleague or an employer.

I want to know if a theft complaint against me can be withdrawn.

I was robbed or had something stolen and want to file a case.

Why Clients Choose Leaders Advocates for Theft Cases in Dubai

We Handle Every Level of Theft Charge.

We Negotiate Withdrawals Where Possible.

We Represent Identity Theft Victims.

We Speak Your Language.

Award Winning Legal Practice.

Types of Theft Cases We Handle in Dubai

Petty Theft and Shoplifting

Aggravated or Qualified Theft

Robbery

Employee Theft and Misappropriation

Identity Theft

Vehicle and Property Theft

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

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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 THEFT LAW IN DUBAI

Understanding Theft and Identity Theft Law in Dubai

How UAE Law Defines Theft

Identity Theft Under UAE Law

Theft and Identity Theft Legal Services Our Lawyers in Dubai Handle

Defending Against a Theft Charge

Identity Theft Victim Representation

Negotiating Withdrawal of a Theft Complaint

Key Things to Know About Theft Cases in the UAE

Theft Cases for Expats and Foreigners in Dubai

What Our Clients Say

Questions Our Theft Lawyer in Dubai Get Asked Every Day

Contact to Our Theft and Identity Theft Lawyers in Dubai
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