Being charged with a violent crime in Dubai whether assault, battery, grievous bodily harm, or a more serious offence is one of the most serious legal situations you can face in the UAE. Convictions carry custodial sentences, significant fines, civil liability for damages, and mandatory deportation for expatriates.
Al Adl Legal's criminal lawyers in Dubai include specialist violent crimes lawyers who have successfully represented clients charged with the full spectrum of violent offences, from minor altercations to complex cases involving serious injury. We understand the practical and emotional pressures these charges bring and provide robust, strategic, and confidential legal defence.
If You Have Been Arrested Exercise Your Right to Silence
Do not explain yourself to police without a lawyer present. Even well-intentioned statements can be misconstrued during an assault investigation. Al Adl Legal will accompany you to any police inquiry and ensure your rights are fully protected.
Assault and Battery
Under UAE law, assault involves intentionally causing or threatening physical harm to another person. Battery refers to the unlawful application of physical force. Both are criminal offences prosecuted under the UAE Penal Code. Assault charges frequently arise from disputes in public places, workplace altercations, road rage incidents, and domestic situations.
Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)
Where an assault results in serious physical injury including broken bones, permanent scarring, loss of limb function, or other significant harm then the charges are elevated to grievous bodily harm, which carries substantially higher penalties and longer custodial sentences.
Manslaughter and Homicide
Homicide cases in the UAE are among the most serious criminal matters and require immediate expert legal intervention. The UAE applies both the civil law Penal Code and, in cases involving Muslim victims and Muslim accused, principles of Sharia law including Diyah (blood money). Al Adl Legal provides full representation in these cases and advises on the unique Sharia law dimensions of homicide proceedings in the UAE.
Domestic Violence
The UAE introduced Federal Law No. 10 of 2019 on Protection Against Domestic Violence, which criminalises physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse within family relationships. Both UAE nationals and expatriates can be prosecuted under this law, with protection orders, criminal prosecution, and deportation all possible consequences.
Self-Defence Cases
UAE law recognises the right to self-defence (Article 50 of the Penal Code), but the application of this right is strictly defined. Force used in self-defence must be proportionate to the threat faced, and the accused must not have been able to retreat safely. Our lawyers build detailed self-defence arguments where the facts support them.
| Offence Type | Typical Penalty | Expat Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Simple assault or battery | Up to 1 year imprisonment plus fine | Deportation possible |
| Assault causing injury | Up to 5 years imprisonment | Deportation likely |
| Grievous bodily harm | 5 to 15 years imprisonment | Mandatory deportation |
| Manslaughter | 3 to 15 years plus Diyah payment | Mandatory deportation |
| Murder (premeditated) | Death penalty or life imprisonment | Mandatory deportation |
| Domestic violence | Up to 6 months plus protection order | Deportation possible |
One distinctive aspect of UAE criminal law in violent crime cases are particularly those resulting in death or serious injury which is the concept of Diyah (blood money). Under Sharia principles applied in the UAE, the victim's family (or the victim themselves in injury cases) may accept a financial payment (Diyah) in lieu of or in addition to criminal punishment. Al Adl Legal advises clients on Diyah negotiations and the legal procedures governing these payments, which can significantly affect the criminal outcome.
Al Adl Legal advises clients on Diyah negotiations and the legal framework governing these payments, which can be a critical factor in achieving the best possible outcome in homicide and serious injury cases.
The Power of Complainant Withdrawal
In many violent crime cases in Dubai, the complainant retains the right to withdraw their complaint. Al Adl Legal actively negotiates with complainants to achieve settlements, frequently resulting in criminal case withdrawal particularly in assault cases without aggravating circumstances.
Yes, if the facts support it. UAE law recognises self-defence under Article 50 of the Penal Code, but the force used must have been proportionate to the threat faced and there must have been no reasonable opportunity to retreat. Our lawyers assess whether self-defence applies and build the strongest possible argument.
In many assault cases, the complainant can withdraw their complaint, which often results in the criminal case being dropped or significantly reduced. Al Adl Legal actively negotiates with complainants and their lawyers to achieve settlements often including compensation agreements that lead to case withdrawal.
Diyah is a financial payment made to victims or their families in cases of death or serious injury under Sharia principles applied in the UAE. Acceptance of Diyah by the victim's family can significantly affect the criminal outcome, including the possibility of avoiding or reducing imprisonment in homicide and GBH cases.
Yes. Any physical altercation like minor pushing or shoving that occurs on a public road can be charged as assault in Dubai. Road rage incidents resulting in injury are treated particularly seriously and can result in imprisonment, fines, and deportation for expatriates.
Upon receiving an assault complaint, Dubai Police will summon both parties for statements. The case is then sent to the Public Prosecution, which decides whether to refer it to court. Al Adl Legal intervenes at the police statement stage to ensure your rights are protected and your version of events is recorded accurately.
Our team of highly-skilled and experienced lawyers specialize in a variety of areas of practice. With a comprehensive knowledge of UAE legislation, we are well-equipped to provide strategic counsel and effective solutions.
We prioritise our clients' interests and strive to deliver personalised legal solutions. We take the time to thoroughly understand your unique situation, objectives, and concerns. By developing a close working relationship with you, we can provide sound advice and guidance.
Our dedication to excellence sets us apart. We are committed to delivering exceptional legal services, consistently meeting and exceeding our clients' expectations. With meticulous attention to detail, thorough research, and diligent case preparation, we leave no stone unturned.
We uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all our interactions. We understand the sensitive nature of legal matters and the importance of confidentiality. Rest assured that your information will be handled with the utmost discretion and respect.
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