Unified UAE Legislation Database

FAQ: Must civil proceedings in the UAE be suspended if a related criminal case has not yet been decided?

Status

In force

Issuing Authority

Effective date

XX.XX.XXXX

Official Link

https://

Answer: Yes, they must.

 

According to Article 29 of Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022 Promulgating the Criminal Procedure Code and Article 104 of Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2022 Promulgating the Civil Procedure Code, the judgment in the civil claim shall be postponed until a final decision is issued in the criminal case that was initiated before or during the proceedings of the civil claim.

 

This mechanism applies when:

- One of the parties declares that a criminal investigation is ongoing or a criminal case has been initiated,

- And the resolution of the civil dispute depends on the establishment of a criminal offense (e.g., fraud, forgery, embezzlement, etc.).

 

Relevant case law:

Case No. 188 of 2025 / Federal Supreme Court / Civil