A lawyer—right now. You can consult a lawyer as soon as you’re arrested, and you’re entitled to legal representation at every stage. If the charge is serious and you can’t afford counsel, the court can appoint one. Meetings are usually arranged via the Public Prosecution.
The right to stay silent. Article 48 of the UAE Criminal Procedure Law protects you from self-incrimination. You don’t have to answer questions or sign statements before speaking to your lawyer—and silence cannot be treated as guilt. Insist that officers note your decision to remain silent.
Know the charge. Police must tell you why you’re being arrested and what accusations you face.
Interpreter support. If you don’t speak Arabic, you have the right to a translator so you fully understand every document and proceeding.
Humane treatment—full stop. Torture, coercion, or degrading treatment are prohibited. You must be kept safely and not forced to confess.
Detention timeline at a glance (so you can track the clock):
Up to 48 hours at the police station before transfer to Public Prosecution.
Prosecutor custody up to 24 more hours before formal investigation; may extend up to 14 days in total by the prosecutor.
Courts can approve renewable 30-day extensions depending on the case.
What I tell readers in this situation
Honestly, the first hours are where most mistakes happen—usually from panic. I’ve helped many readers navigate those early decisions, and the difference is simple: slow down, use your rights, and control the paper trail.
Your 10-step playbook (do these in order)
Say the words: “I want a lawyer and I choose to remain silent.” Then stop talking about the case.
Don’t sign anything until your lawyer reviews it—even if you’re told it’s “just routine.”
Ask for an interpreter if you need one; insist on translations before signing.
Request to contact your embassy and clearly state your nationality. This must be done “without delay” once you ask.
Record times: note when you were detained, questioned, moved, and by whom. The 48-hour and 24-hour clocks matter.
Keep it factual: no explanations, no theories, no apologies—save it for counsel.
Ask for basics: medication, food, and safe conditions; you’re entitled to humane treatment.
Have your lawyer confirm any property seized and any statements attributed to you.
Notify family via the embassy (safer and documented) rather than informal channels.
Track extensions: if detention continues, your lawyer should monitor prosecutor and court extension orders.
How to contact your embassy (and why it helps)
You have the right—under UAE law and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations—to prompt consular contact. Here’s the quick action plan:
Say it clearly: “I request consular notification.” Don’t assume it happens automatically; you must ask.
Use official channels: call directly if a phone is available, or ask police/prosecution to contact your embassy; your lawyer can also initiate.
What embassies actually do: inform family, suggest licensed lawyers, monitor your welfare, assist with interpreters and paperwork, and request permission to attend hearings. They cannot secure your release or interfere with the case.
Example numbers to save (24/7 lines subject to change):
British Embassy (Abu Dhabi): +971 2 610 1100; British Embassy (Dubai): +971 4 309 4444.
U.S. Embassy (Abu Dhabi) & U.S. Consulate (Dubai): +971 2 414 2200 (24-hour emergency).
Quick checklist to keep you safe
Lawyer first. Silence second. Paperwork last.
Don’t sign what you don’t understand (use an interpreter).
Ask for embassy contact and let them coordinate family updates.
Note the detention timeline and have your lawyer challenge improper extensions.
Final word
You can’t control that you were detained—but you can control your next moves. Use your rights, slow the process down, and bring your lawyer and embassy into the room. That’s how you protect yourself and build the strongest defense possible.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for actions taken based on its contents. For advice on your specific situation, consult a qualified lawyer.
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