HomeHow to Report a Cybercrime in the UAE: Step-by-Step Guide (2025 Update)
In the context of the rapid growth of digital technologies, cybercrime in the UAE is becoming increasingly sophisticated: from account hacking and online fraud to blackmail in messengers and phishing. For victims of such attacks, it is important not only to protect their data but also to respond correctly from a legal standpoint. A poorly drafted statement can slow down the investigation or even lead to no consequences at all.
Our legal company provides full support in filing a complaint about cybercrime in the UAE, whether through the eCrime portal, Smart Police Station, or directly with the police department. We will help properly document the incident, collect evidence, protect digital correspondence, and, if necessary, represent your interests in law enforcement agencies and court.
Types of cybercrimes you can report in the UAE
Cybercrime is an unlawful act committed using a computer, smartphone, internet, or any other digital technology. Such crimes can be directed against individuals, companies, or government structures and often result in financial damage, leakage of confidential information, or reputational losses.
UAE is one of the most digitalized countries in the region. Online services, mobile banking, social networks, and messengers are widely used here. But with this, the number of cybercrimes is also growing. Just in recent years, Dubai police have recorded a sharp increase in complaints about online fraud and cyber threats. Therefore, it is important to know what actions are considered cybercrimes and how to respond to them correctly.
Let’s consider the most common types of cybercrimes in the UAE:
- Financial fraud. This category includes phishing (fake links and websites for stealing passwords and banking data), forgery of online invoices and bills, “investment access” schemes that promise high returns and disappear with the money. Financial manipulations are strictly punished under the articles of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021. Offenders face a fine of up to 2 million dirhams and imprisonment.
- Hacks and data leaks. These are any unauthorized attempts to gain access to corporate and private accounts, email, cloud storage, personal information (passport data, resumes, bank accounts). Even an attempt at hacking is considered a crime and may lead to deportation.
- Cyberbullying, threats, and defamation. Prohibited are insults and humiliation on the internet, spreading rumors and false information, threats through messengers, sharing private photos or videos without consent. In the UAE, defamation on the internet is punished particularly severely: fines reach 500,000 dirhams, and imprisonment is possible.
- Illegal content. This definition includes the distribution of pornography, calls for violence or terrorism, religious hatred, the sale of prohibited substances. Websites containing such content are blocked, and users are held criminally liable.
- Forgery of digital documents and identifications. This category includes the creation of fake QR codes, electronic passes, IDs, imitation of official websites or accounts (for example, imitation of a bank or government service), the use of fake diplomas and licenses. Such an act may be classified as fraud or document forgery and is punishable by imprisonment.
If you are unsure how to properly document an incident or need legal support, contact our legal team. We will help record the violation, collect evidence, and protect your interests before the law enforcement authorities of the UAE.
Where to report cybercrimes in the UAE (2025)
Fortunately, the country has a developed response system in place. In 2025, three main channels are available in the UAE for filing complaints about cybercrimes. The key is to act promptly, preserve evidence, and, if necessary, seek professional legal assistance.
1. Electronic portal for combating crime of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD)
MOI eCrime is the official federal portal operating throughout the UAE, designed for filing complaints about cybercrimes. The platform allows citizens, residents, and even tourists to submit applications remotely. The main requirement is having a verified profile in the UAE Pass system, which ensures identity verification and secure data submission.
The application is submitted through the website www.moi.gov.ae, where it is necessary to select the “Report E-Crime” section and sequentially specify all the circumstances of the case: date, type of incident, description of the suspect’s actions, links or screenshots (if available). After submitting the complaint, the user receives a case number, which can be used to track the progress of the review.
As a rule, the response comes within 5–7 working days. The platform supports Arabic and English languages and is suitable for incidents related to crimes affecting multiple emirates or having signs of terrorist orientation. It is also used for appeals from legal entities if the violations concern large organizations or public systems.
The Cybercrime Department of the Dubai Police
The Dubai Police provides one of the most technologically advanced services in the UAE for filing complaints about cybercrimes. Unlike the federal portal, more submission methods are available here: through the official website www.dubaipolice.gov.ae, the mobile application Dubai Police App, as well as through a personal visit to a police station.
Priority is given to incidents related to financial crimes—especially bank fraud, online store schemes, phishing emails, and account hacks followed by extortion.
The complaint is submitted step by step: first, the type of violation is indicated, then the circumstances, evidence is attached (correspondence, receipts, screenshots), after which the user can track the status of the application. The responsible department contacts the victim directly, and if necessary, a lead investigator is assigned to the case.
It is important to note that anonymous appeals are not allowed here — the user must identify themselves through UAE Pass or provide contact details. The processing of complaints takes 3–5 working days. One of the innovations is the automatic freezing of suspicious bank accounts in the UAE upon confirmation of fraud, which allows for quickly preventing further transactions.
Abu Dhabi Police Department for Combating Electronic Crimes
For the residents of the capital, there is a separate division within the structure of the local police that handles complaints about cybercrimes. The division focuses on serious incidents: breaches of government resources, corporate email compromise (BEC), personal data leaks, and attacks on digital infrastructure.
The application can be submitted in two ways: through the official website www.adpolice.gov.ae or using the mobile application AD Police App. A hotline 8002626 is also available, where you can not only report a crime but also receive consultation, including anonymously.
The online submission form is intuitive: the user describes the incident, attaches evidence, and receives a unique case number. Case tracking is done through the portal or by phone. The procedure takes 7 to 10 business days, depending on the complexity of the case.
In 2025, the department implemented blockchain-based evidence storage technology, which enhances the reliability of digital evidence and makes the investigation process more transparent. Despite its regional nature, the Abu Dhabi police structure actively collaborates with other emirates when it comes to transferring cases or searching for suspects.
The table systematizes the key differences and features of methods for filing complaints about cybercrimes:
| Criteria | MOI eCrime Portal | Dubai Police eCrime | Abu Dhabi Cybercrime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | All UAE (federal) | Dubai only | Abu Dhabi only |
| Response Time | 5–7 working days | 3–5 working days (priority for financial crimes) | 7–10 working days |
| Supported Languages | Arabic, English | Arabic, English, Urdu, Russian, Chinese | Arabic, English |
| How to Report | Online only (UAE Pass required) | Online, via mobile app, or in person at police stations | Online or via hotline (8002626) |
| Best For | Inter-emirate crimes, cybercrimes related to terrorism | Urgent fraud cases (especially banking/online shopping scams) | Business Email Compromise (BEC), government data breaches |
| Anonymous Reporting | Possible (but slower) | Possible via hotline | Possible via hotline |
| Case Updates | SMS/email notifications | Direct contact with investigator | Case tracking online |
| Mobile Access | MOI UAE app | Dubai Police app | AD Police app |
| New in 2025 | AI fraud detection | Instant freezing of scammer’s UAE bank | Blockchain-based evidence storage account |
Documents required for filing a complaint about cybercrime
To expedite the complaint review process and increase its chances of a successful investigation, it is important to provide the following documents and evidence:
- Identity document. Applicant’s passport or Emirates ID. If the complaint is filed on behalf of a company — a copy of the commercial license and documents confirming the representative’s authority.
- Screenshots and correspondence. Visual evidence of the crime: messages, chats in messengers, comments, posts on social networks, emails, screens of banking transactions, etc.
- Links to resources. Indication of pages, websites, or accounts through which the offense was committed.
- Technical information. IP addresses, sender’s e-mail, phone numbers, payment data, transaction data, and log files (if available).
- Financial documents. In cases of financial crimes — receipts, bank statements, transfer confirmations, contracts, and correspondence with fraudsters.
- A complaint in written form. A brief and structured description of the incident: when it happened, what exactly happened, how you were affected, what assistance you expect.
Most applications are submitted online through the UAE Ministry of Interior portal, the Dubai Police website, or Abu Dhabi. Important:
- Indicate accurate data. Errors in the passport number, contact information, or incident date may delay the review.
- Choose the correct category of crime. The system allows selecting from the list: fraud, defamation, hacking, threats, blackmail, dissemination of false information, and others.
- Attach all evidence. Do not delay providing screenshots or documents—it’s better to gather everything in advance.
- Indicate the damage. If you have incurred material or reputational losses, it is important to reflect this in the complaint and specify an approximate amount.
How to protect yourself from cybercrimes
to apply specific protective measures. Before making an online payment, providing personal data, or cooperating with an unfamiliar company, be sure to check its registration. In the UAE, for this, you can use official licensing portal. Here you can verify that the organization has a valid license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) and operates legally. Avoid transactions with companies that do not have a license. Be especially cautious with online stores, exchanges, and investment platforms.
Use UAE Pass for login and identity verification. This is a national digital identification recognized by all government entities and many private services in the country. It provides two-factor authentication, protects your digital signature, and prevents unauthorized access to personal information. Link UAE Pass to all important applications: banking, government services, tax services. Do not share your PIN code or login details for UAE Pass with anyone, even if they claim to be “security services.”
Do not click on suspicious links or download unknown files. Cybercriminals in the UAE often use fake email newsletters, messengers, or even calls from “official” numbers to extract logins, passwords, or payment details from victims. Check the sender’s address (especially if the email claims to be from a bank). Do not open attachments from unknown senders.
Regularly update software and install antivirus. Old versions of applications and operating systems are a vulnerability actively exploited by attackers. It is important to regularly update the operating system of your phone/laptop, browsers, banking applications, antivirus software, and security tools. Set up automatic updates to avoid missing important security patches.
Be careful on social media. In the UAE, cases of cyberbullying, blackmail, and defamation through social networks are not uncommon. Sharing personal information should be done strictly in moderation: adjust privacy settings in your accounts, do not post photos of bank cards, passports, and tickets, do not respond to provocative messages, especially from strangers.
If you have fallen victim to fraud, received threats, or suspect unauthorized access to your accounts, do not delay. The UAE has official mechanisms for filing complaints. However, it is important to properly prepare the documents and support the complaint with evidence. Our legal team provides comprehensive legal support in the field of cybercrime in the UAE: from consultation to filing a complaint and representation in court. Contact us now for an initial consultation and the development of an effective strategy for further cooperation.
FAQ
Can I report a cybercrime anonymously in the UAE?
Yes, in the UAE there is an option to file a complaint anonymously through official portals such as eCrime.ae or the Dubai Police app. However, with anonymous submissions, it is more difficult to initiate a full investigation, as the authorities will not be able to contact you for clarification of details. If you want to achieve a specific result, it is better to provide your contact information.
What punishment is provided for cybercrimes in the UAE?
According to Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, the punishment for cybercrimes may include fines ranging from 100,000 to 3,000,000 dirhams, as well as imprisonment for up to 10 years depending on the severity of the crime. Crimes related to finances, state security, and the distribution of pornography are punished particularly severely.
How to report a cybercrime online in Dubai?
To file an online complaint in Dubai, you can use the official portal www.ecrime.ae or the Dubai Police mobile application. You need to specify the type of incident, attach evidence (screenshots, correspondence, account numbers, etc.), and describe the situation. The complaint will be registered, and you will receive a case number for tracking.
How to file a complaint against a fraudster in the UAE?
You can file a complaint at the nearest police station, through the online portal eCrime, Abu Dhabi Police, or Dubai Police. Be sure to provide all available evidence: correspondence, bank transactions, contact details of the fraudster. To increase the chances of a successful investigation, it is recommended to seek legal assistance for proper complaint filing and case support.
