Extradition in the United Arab Emirates
Facing extradition, an Interpol Red Notice, or an international arrest warrant in the UAE can result in immediate detention, asset freezes, and travel bans. Mishandling such cases can lead to serious consequences, including severe legal, reputational, and personal repercussions. It is crucial to seek the best extradition lawyers to ensure your rights are protected and to achieve the best possible outcome.
Our law firm provides high-risk extradition defense in Dubai for foreigners and international clients — challenging unlawful extradition requests, Interpol notices, and cross-border criminal cases under UAE law. We offer comprehensive legal support and qualified legal assistance for complex international extradition matters, ensuring expert guidance throughout every stage of the process.
We are Extradition Lawyers
Extradition attorney Anatoliy Yarovyi has successfully represented clients in Dubai. He is well-equipped to assist in having your name removed from INTERPOL’s databases.
What Is Extradition?
What Is Extradition?
Extradition is the process of transferring a person accused or convicted of a crime from one country to another for further legal proceedings. For instance, a crime is committed in one country. The suspect is identified, but authorities failed to detain them in time. The alleged criminal then flees abroad. To find him, a person is declared wanted internationally.
If the suspect is spotted in another country (including the UAE), they can be detained. Following that, the requesting country can submit an extradition request to Dubai, another emirate, or another country. The goal is to hold the person accountable in the requesting country, where they committed the crime. This legal process facilitates judicial cooperation in criminal matters across the world.
How Does Extradition Work Under UAE Law?
The rules for extradition requests are based on international treaties and national legislation. The foundation of the UAE extradition law in Dubai and other emirates is Federal Law No. 39 of 2006. In 2023, it was amended by Federal Law No. 38. These Dubai extradition laws operate within complex legal frameworks and are influenced by international criminal law, which governs cooperation among nations and the handling of transnational crimes.
Additionally, specific aspects of extradition are contained in the Constitution, the Criminal Code, and the Criminal Procedure Code of the UAE. In particular, the country’s Constitution prohibits the extradition of its own citizens and political refugees.
Federal Law No. 39 governs cooperation between the UAE and other countries in the field of criminal justice. It also contains conditions for a successful Dubai extradition:
- The act committed must be considered a crime in both states – in both the requesting country and the UAE.
- Extradition is possible if the person has already been sentenced to imprisonment for a term of at least 1 year, or if the crime’s sanctions stipulate a prison sentence of 1 year or longer.
- Extradition is refused for political, military, or religious offenses.
These are the 3 main criteria by which UAE courts assess extradition requests. Extradition requests are generally evaluated based on the principle of dual criminality, meaning the offense must be a crime in both the requesting country and the UAE. Additionally, the requesting country must provide sufficient information about the case itself. This includes personal data and a detailed description of the person sought. Also, information about the crime, such as legal classification, references to legal norms, and legal documents.
If the requesting country does not meet the criteria or its request is not sufficiently justified, extradition can be avoided. Individuals can challenge extradition on grounds of procedural errors, lack of dual criminality, or human rights risks.
Challenging the legality of an extradition request is a common defense strategy employed by extradition lawyers. To do this, it’s important to timely engage a qualified extradition lawyer in Dubai. Our extradition law firm has been working in this jurisdiction for many years. Therefore, we know how to build an effective defense strategy against unlawful extradition.
The Extradition Process
The extradition process in the United Arab Emirates is governed by a robust legal framework designed to ensure fairness and compliance with international standards. Under Federal Law No. 39 of 2006, the process begins when a requesting country submits an official extradition request to the UAE authorities. This request must be supported by sufficient evidence and must demonstrate that the alleged offense constitutes a crime in both the UAE and the requesting country—a principle known as dual criminality.
Once the extradition request is received, it is carefully reviewed by the relevant authorities, including the Public Prosecution and the Ministry of Justice. Extradition lawyers in Dubai play a vital role at this stage, guiding clients through the complex legal proceedings and ensuring that all procedural requirements are met. The process involves a thorough examination of the evidence, the legal basis for the request, and the potential impact on the individual’s rights.
Throughout the extradition process, lawyers in Dubai work to protect their clients’ interests, challenge any procedural irregularities, and advocate for the application of federal law. The involvement of experienced legal professionals is essential to navigate the intricacies of criminal matters and to ensure that the extradition process is conducted in accordance with both UAE law and international legal standards.
Extradition Requests
Extradition requests are formal communications from one country to another, seeking the surrender of an individual for prosecution or to serve a sentence for criminal matters. In the UAE, these requests must be accompanied by a valid arrest warrant or a judicial decision from the requesting country. The Public Prosecution is responsible for evaluating whether the request meets the stringent requirements set out in Federal Law No. 39 of 2006.
Extradition lawyers in Dubai are instrumental in scrutinizing the details of each extradition request. They assess whether the request is supported by credible evidence, whether the alleged offense qualifies under the principle of dual criminality, and whether there have been any procedural violations. An experienced extradition attorney can also raise concerns related to human rights, such as the risk of unfair treatment or political persecution in the requesting country.
Given the complexity of the extradition process, it is crucial to seek the guidance of lawyers in Dubai who are well-versed in federal law and international legal procedures. Their expertise can make a significant difference in challenging an extradition request and safeguarding the rights of the individual involved.
Arrest and Detention
Arrest and detention are pivotal moments in the extradition process, often occurring swiftly after an extradition request is received by UAE authorities. Local law enforcement agencies are responsible for carrying out arrests in accordance with both UAE law and international human rights obligations. Individuals subject to extradition may be detained while their case is reviewed, and the conditions of their detention must meet established legal standards.
Extradition lawyers in Dubai provide essential support during this stage, ensuring that detainees are treated fairly and that their legal rights are upheld. This includes securing access to legal representation, facilitating communication with family members, and advocating for appropriate medical care if needed. Lawyers can also challenge the legality of the detention, seek bail, or negotiate alternative conditions for release pending the outcome of the extradition proceedings.
The involvement of experienced extradition attorneys is critical to navigating the complexities of arrest and detention, protecting the individual’s rights, and ensuring that all actions taken by local law enforcement comply with both UAE and international legal standards.
Countries with Extradition Treaties with the UAE
| Country | Extradition Treaty with UAE? | Key Risk Factors & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom (UK) | Yes | Active treaty, but UK courts are historically reluctant to extradite to the UAE. Extradition from the UAE to the UK is common. |
| Russia | Yes | High volume of requests. Mutual Legal Assistance is active. requires aggressive defense proving political/business persecution. |
| Turkey | Yes | Active cooperation. Political cases require specialized defense strategies under the UAE Constitution. |
| India | Yes | Very active bilateral cooperation regarding financial crimes and fugitives. |
| USA | No Treaty | High Risk. Extradition happens via diplomatic channels & reciprocity. Requires a top extradition lawyer in Dubai familiar with US-UAE diplomacy. |
| Poland | No Treaty | Requests are processed based on international reciprocity and UN conventions. |
The United Arab Emirates has signed extradition treaties with more than 50 countries, including the UK, France, India, Pakistan, China, and Australia. The UAE participates in the Riyadh Arab Convention on Judicial Cooperation to facilitate extradition among Arab countries. The UAE maintains a growing network of bilateral extradition treaties and mutual legal assistance agreements, and these signed extradition treaties play a crucial role in facilitating international cooperation in criminal matters.
The role of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and its legal implications in the UAE
Interpol proceedings in Dubai pose a serious and immediate risk for foreign nationals, business owners, and international travelers. Interpol, as the international criminal police organization, does not have direct enforcement powers but plays a key role in facilitating international cooperation and combating international crime. Its notices — particularly Red and Blue Notices — are enforced through local law enforcement practices and international cooperation among authorities.
The United Arab Emirates maintains close cooperation with INTERPOL due to its strategic position as a global financial and transport hub. As a result, an Interpol notice may lead to detention, asset freezes, travel bans, and reputational damage, often without prior warning. Extradition requests are often submitted via Interpol or directly through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the Ministry of Justice.
In practice, individuals frequently learn about an Interpol issue only after being stopped at an airport, denied banking services, or subjected to restrictions imposed by UAE authorities. At this stage, the consequences go far beyond criminal procedure — professional activity, residence status, and access to financial systems may be immediately affected.
Understanding how INTERPOL operates in the UAE, and how notices are interpreted and enforced by local authorities, is critical to protecting your legal position and freedom of movement.
Interpol in Dubai: how notices work
Interpol notices are used to exchange intelligence and legal alerts between law enforcement agencies worldwide. In the UAE, these notices are treated with heightened attention and may trigger preventive measures even before any court review.
Our law firm regularly handles cases involving the following Interpol mechanisms:
Notices
Diffusion
“Urgent” messages that are subject to fewer procedures than official bulletins. Sent by member countries directly to each other or to a specific region. Usually used to request cooperation in an investigation or to quickly share information about a wanted person or arrest warrant.
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Red Notice
The highest level of international alert issued by a judicial authority to locate a wanted person and detain them temporarily until the extradition process begins.
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Blue Notice
Issued to collect additional intelligence on the identity, location, or illegal activities of a person suspected of being involved in a crime.
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Green Notice
Used to warn other countries about persons who have previously committed crimes and are likely to repeat them in other countries (“recidivists” or “career criminals”).
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Yellow Notice
Issued to locate missing persons (usually minors) or to identify persons unable to provide their own information (e.g., due to memory loss).
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Purple Notice
Used to request or share information about new methods, procedures, objects, devices, or concealment techniques used by criminals.
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Black Notice
Issued to collect information about unidentified bodies, share forensic data, and establish the identity of deceased persons.
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Orange Notice
Used to alert law enforcement about events, persons, dangerous substances (e.g., explosive packages), or hidden weapons that pose an immediate and serious threat to public safety.
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UN Special Notice
A special notification informing Interpol members about individuals or organizations listed on United Nations Security Council sanctions lists (asset freezes, travel bans, etc.).
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Why do you need an Interpol lawyer in Dubai?
An experienced Interpol lawyer in Dubai is essential because Interpol matters involve:
- UAE criminal and procedural law
- International treaties and cooperation mechanisms
- INTERPOL Constitution (Articles 2 and 3)
- Human rights standards and political asylum considerations
Qualified legal assistance and comprehensive legal support are crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of Interpol and extradition matters, ensuring that all legal avenues are explored and your interests are fully protected.
Without specialized legal intervention, individuals risk unlawful detention, escalation to extradition proceedings, or long-term restrictions that are difficult to reverse. Errors or delays in responding to Interpol or extradition cases can lead to serious consequences, including severe legal and personal repercussions.
Our Interpol lawyers in Dubai intervene at all stages — from preventive risk assessments to emergency response following detention — ensuring that notices are challenged promptly and lawfully.
How we defend clients in Interpol cases
Our legal team provides comprehensive Interpol defense in the UAE, including:
- Verification of Interpol status (Red, Blue, Diffusion)
- Immediate legal response in case of detention or travel restrictions
- Filing petitions to the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL’s Files (CCF)
- Proving political motivation, procedural violations, or the civil-law nature of disputes
- Preventing escalation from Blue Notices to Red Notices
- Coordinating defense strategies with the UAE authorities and foreign counsel
We regularly defend clients facing Interpol notices related to money laundering and drug trafficking, which are among the most common grounds for extradition requests in Dubai.
Our goal is not only to remove unlawful notices but also to protect your reputation, assets, and freedom of movement throughout the process.
Extradition Cases
Extradition cases in the UAE often involve complex international legal challenges that require a high level of expertise and strategic planning. Extradition lawyers in Dubai must possess a thorough understanding of UAE extradition law, the intricacies of international judicial cooperation, and the legal systems of both the UAE and the requesting country. These cases frequently involve coordination with local law enforcement agencies, the UAE courts, and foreign legal counsel.
Successfully defending against extradition requires a comprehensive legal approach that addresses not only the merits of the case but also the broader diplomatic and political context. Lawyers in Dubai analyze every aspect of the case, from the validity of the extradition request to the potential risks faced by the individual if extradited. They work closely with clients to develop tailored defense strategies that protect their legal rights and personal interests.
By engaging experienced extradition lawyers, individuals facing extradition cases in the UAE can benefit from professional legal support, in-depth legal analysis, and effective representation before the courts. This comprehensive approach is essential for navigating the complexities of cross-border legal matters and achieving the best possible outcome in extradition proceedings.
Meet Our Extradition Lawyers Team in Dubai
When it comes to international criminal cases and extradition matters, it is important to work with a team of experts who possess not only deep knowledge in international law but also experience in the practical defense of clients’ interests. Our team of defense lawyers in Dubai is renowned for its expertise in various jurisdictions.
Our company unites highly qualified lawyers and solicitors with many years of practice in criminal law, international private law, UAE migration legislation, and cases related to Interpol notifications. We work in close cooperation with government authorities and colleagues worldwide, which allows us to provide prompt and effective protection of clients’ interests.
Dr. Anatoliy Yarovyi – senior partner of our company, an outstanding lawyer with more than twenty years of professional experience. He specialises in representing clients’ interests in the ECHR and Interpol on matters related to Dubai extradition, personal and business reputation, data protection, and freedom of movement.
Dmytro Konovalenko – a qualified lawyer with more than five years of experience in defending clients against unlawful Interpol notices and extradition requests. Dmytro is an active member of the International Bar Association and uses his knowledge to protect clients’ rights in complex legal disputes.
All our specialists have proven experience in handling international cases and extradition law. If necessary, we involve experts, translators, and lawyers in other jurisdictions.
Why Choose Us?
We possess deep expertise in extradition cases and Interpol notices. Our lawyers are not only familiar with UAE legislation but also have extensive experience in interacting with foreign courts and law enforcement agencies. We are proud that our firm is considered one of the leading extradition law firms, employing lawyers and consultants who have recognised authority both in the UAE courts and beyond.
We understand the full importance of the issues our clients come to us with. Therefore, in our work, we place emphasis on strict confidentiality and continuous support. You can rely on prompt communication with an extradition lawyer Dubai ready to answer any questions. By contacting us, you can count on comprehensive legal consulting without resorting to the services of multiple firms simultaneously.
Looking for Extradition Lawyers?
Securing a denial of extradition is a complex task. Therefore, it is recommended to entrust such matters only to an experienced extradition attorney in the UAE. The lawyers at our extradition law firm specialize in international law and extradition procedures. We practice within the jurisdiction of the UAE and many other countries, and we can help you defend against unlawful extradition. An experienced extradition lawyer can help contest extradition requests based on legal grounds such as political motivation or human rights violations.
Individuals can challenge extradition requests based on political motivations or potential violations of their rights in the requesting country. Asylum applications may stop extradition if persecution is feared, and human rights concerns can lead to refusal of extradition if the individual risks torture or an unfair trial.
Can I appeal an extradition order in the UAE?
Yes, you can appeal the extradition requests. The law sets a deadline for such an appeal – 30 days. The grounds for an appeal most often include procedural violations during the consideration of the request and potential threats to your rights in the extraditing country.
An experienced attorney will help you find the right arguments and develop an effective strategy for appealing an extradition request. Our legal services in Dubai include preparing your appeal and defending your interests in court.
Do all countries have extradition agreements with the UAE?
No, not all countries have extradition treaties with the UAE. However, about 50 states have signed such agreements. The UAE is focused on international partnerships, so the number of extradition treaties may increase. Moreover, the absence of an agreement does not guarantee a refusal to extradite.
What steps can I take if I am facing extradition?
As soon as you learn about a potential extradition, reach out to a lawyer. That’s the first step in protecting your interests. After analyzing the situation, the lawyer will develop a further action plan that aligns with the UAE legal procedures. It may include various steps.
First and foremost, you should contest the extradition request in the court of the country where you were detained. Concurrently, you can appeal against your search notice with Interpol authorities. Additionally, you should reach out to the courts and law enforcement agencies of the country requesting your extradition.
To consult with an extradition UAE attorney soon, please leave a request on this site.
Can you be extradited from UAE?
Yes, the UAE can extradite individuals to other countries if there is an extradition treaty between the states or if the extradition is carried out on the basis of the principle of reciprocity. However, the extradition process in the UAE has strict legal limitations.
Is Italy a non-extradition country?
Italy is not a safe haven from extradition but has strict limitations on its execution. According to Italian legislation, the state does not extradite its own citizens; extradition is only possible if there is a bilateral agreement and compliance with international standards.
Is there an extradition treaty between UAE and Germany?
Yes, there is an extradition treaty between the UAE and Germany, which was signed in 2008. According to this agreement, Germany and the United Arab Emirates can request the extradition of suspects and accused individuals. Requests are subject to review in accordance with international human rights standards and the legislation of both countries. Our lawyers in Dubai provide legal support in extradition cases, helping clients protect their legal rights and minimise risks.
Does Dubai have an extradition law?
Yes, the UAE has Federal Law No. 39 of 2006 on International Judicial Cooperation in Criminal Matters, which governs all matters of extradition from Dubai. This law establishes clear conditions and procedures for surrendering individuals, as well as grounds for refusal, providing a legal framework for such requests.
Can you be extradited from Dubai to the USA?
Yes, extradition from Dubai to the USA is possible, despite the absence of a formal extradition treaty between the two countries. The surrender of individuals is carried out on the basis of reciprocity and bilateral agreements for specific cases, which are handled through diplomatic channels.
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