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Financial & White-Collar Crime — ABR Advocates
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Criminal Law

Financial & White-Collar Crime in the UAE

Complex financial investigations demand a defence that understands both the law and the numbers. We act in money laundering, embezzlement, bribery, and corporate criminal matters — for individuals and companies.

Understanding Financial & White-Collar Crime in the UAE

White-collar matters are a distinct discipline within criminal law. Investigations are document-heavy, frequently span borders and bank accounts, and engage specialised legislation alongside the Penal Code: the Anti-Money Laundering framework (Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018, as amended), corporate liability provisions, and the regulatory regimes of the CBUAE and the financial free zones. Companies as well as individuals can face criminal liability, and a criminal file often runs in parallel with regulatory action and civil claims — each with its own strategy and risks.

These cases turn on the paper trail: contracts, transfers, board approvals, audit findings, and forensic accounting. Our defence work focuses on the elements the prosecution must actually prove — knowledge, intent, and the specific role of each accused — and on engaging expert evidence early. For businesses, we also advise preventively: internal investigations when misconduct is suspected, and managing the reporting obligations that arise, so the company’s response does not become part of the problem.

How ABR Advocates Can Help

Money Laundering Defence

Defending money laundering allegations under the AML framework, including asset freezing and confiscation proceedings.

Embezzlement & Bribery

Defending embezzlement, abuse of position, and bribery allegations against employees, managers, and officials.

Corporate Criminal Liability

Advising companies facing corporate criminal exposure, alongside their regulatory and civil positions.

Internal Investigations

Conducting internal investigations and advising on suspicious-transaction and disclosure obligations.

Parallel Proceedings

Coordinating defence across parallel criminal, regulatory, and civil proceedings — onshore and in DIFC/ADGM contexts.

See also: Fraud & Breach of Trust Cases · Cheque & Financial Dishonour Cases.

Common questions

Financial & White-Collar Crime FAQs

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Broadly, non-violent offences committed for financial gain in a business or professional context — money laundering, embezzlement, bribery, forgery of commercial documents, market and corporate offences. They are prosecuted under the Penal Code and specialised legislation, often following referrals from regulators, auditors, or banks.
Yes. UAE law recognises corporate criminal liability for offences committed by representatives or managers acting in the company’s name or on its behalf, with penalties including substantial fines and other measures — while the individuals involved remain separately liable. Corporate exposure and individual exposure require distinct, coordinated defences.
Preserve the evidence, limit internal discussion, and take legal advice before confronting anyone or making reports. The sequence matters: an internal investigation conducted properly protects privilege and the company’s position, while missteps can destroy evidence, alert suspects, or create reporting problems of their own.
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This page is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. All matters are handled with strict confidentiality. Law references last reviewed July 2026.

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