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Police Complaints & Investigations — ABR Advocates
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Criminal Law

Police Complaints & Investigations in the UAE

What you say in your first statement shapes the entire case. Whether you are filing a complaint or have been summoned for questioning, we protect your position from the very first step at the police station and the Public Prosecution.

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Understanding Police Complaints & Investigations in the UAE

The criminal process in the UAE begins long before any courtroom. A complaint filed at a police station, a summons for questioning, or a referral to the Public Prosecution can each set in motion consequences that reach your liberty, your residency, and your ability to travel. Statements are recorded in Arabic, proceedings move quickly, and remarks made casually at this stage — without advice, and sometimes without a full understanding of the questions — routinely become the foundation of a criminal case under the UAE Criminal Procedure Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022).

Our team acts on both sides of this stage: for complainants who need a criminal complaint drafted, filed, and pursued with the police and Public Prosecution, and for suspects and witnesses who have been called in and need their rights protected before they speak. We prepare formal Arabic-language submissions and memoranda to the Public Prosecution, attend alongside clients where permitted, and press for the correct classification of the matter — because whether a dispute is treated as criminal or civil is often decided right here.

How ABR Advocates Can Help

Filing Complaints

Drafting, filing, and following up criminal complaints with the police and Public Prosecution, supported by properly organised evidence.

Pre-Statement Advice

Advising suspects and witnesses before questioning, and preparing them for what the investigation stage involves.

Prosecution Submissions

Preparing formal Arabic memoranda and defence submissions to the Public Prosecution during the investigation.

Challenging Complaints

Challenging wrongful complaints, pressing for dismissal or reclassification of matters that are civil in nature.

Case Tracking

Monitoring the case status across police and prosecution systems and keeping you informed at every step.

See also: Criminal Defence Representation · Bail & Pre-Trial Applications.

Common questions

Police Complaints & Investigations FAQs

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You will be asked to give a statement, recorded in Arabic, which becomes part of the case file. You are entitled to understand what is being asked before you answer, and to seek legal advice. The matter may then be closed, resolved, or referred to the Public Prosecution. Taking advice before you attend — not after — is the single most valuable step you can take.
Yes. A complaint can be filed at the police station with jurisdiction over the incident or through the available electronic channels. Its prospects depend heavily on how the facts are framed and evidenced from the outset — a well-drafted complaint supported by organised documents is far more likely to progress than a bare allegation.
It varies with the complexity of the matter — from days for simple cases to months where forensic reports, expert opinions, or multiple witnesses are involved. Once referred, the Public Prosecution conducts its own investigation before deciding whether to refer the case to court, close it, or take other measures. We follow up actively so your file does not sit idle.
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The Investigation Stage Decides the Case. Don’t Face It Alone.

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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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