Introduction:

Cheque cases are one of the most common cases before the courts in the UAE, due to the use of the cheque as a means of fulfillment and security in commercial and personal transactions. Although the check is considered a commercial paper that obligates the drawer to pay its value to the beneficiary, many cases of non-payment or issuance of bad checks make these cases of great importance.

First things first: What are check cases?

These are cases arising from a person issuing a check without a sufficient balance in the bank, issuing instructions that prevent the check from being cashed, or tampering with its data, resulting in the bank’s refusal to cash the check.

II: Legal Basis for Check Cases in the UAE

The UAE Commercial Transactions Law regulates the provisions of the check, stating that it is an instrument of fulfillment in the same way as money. The Penal Code also establishes penalties for issuing a bad check, withdrawing the balance after issuing the check, or closing the account, as this harms the beneficiary and confidence in commercial transactions.

III: Penalties for check cases

– Financial penalties that vary depending on the value of the check.
– Imprisonment in some cases.
– Prohibited from engaging in certain commercial activities.
Modern laws have also made it possible to reconcile cheque crimes in exchange for payment or amicable settlement of the dispute.

IV: What to do when faced with a bounced check?

If you get a bounced check in the UAE, you can do the following steps:
1- Go to the bank and get a protest note (statement of non-payment).
(2) File a criminal complaint with the police or public prosecution.
3- File a civil suit to claim the value of the check and compensation.
4- Hiring a specialized lawyer to follow up on the case.

V: How does our law firm support you?

In our office, we provide specialized legal consultations in check cases, and we represent clients before the courts and competent authorities, and help them collect their rights, whether amicably or judicially, with careful follow-up of all stages of the case until full recovery of rights.

Introduction

The UAE’s real estate market is one of the most dynamic in the Gulf region, attracting both investors and residents thanks to its advanced infrastructure and promising investment opportunities. However, despite strict government oversight and regulation, some individuals still fall victim to real estate fraud due to lack of awareness or dealing with unlicensed entities.

In this article, we present a practical guide on how to protect yourself from real estate fraud in the UAE, including legal and practical tips for buyers, tenants, and investors.

1. What is Real Estate Fraud?

Real estate fraud refers to any illegal or deceptive practice aimed at unlawfully seizing money or property from individuals. It often involves forged documents, selling properties that are not owned by the seller, or collecting payments without delivering any genuine value.

Common examples include:

• Selling the same unit to multiple buyers.
• Manipulating property layouts or measurements.
• Offering fake or unregistered contracts.
• Unlicensed developers are promoting non-existent projects. 

2. Regulatory Authorities for Real Estate in the UAE

To protect and regulate the market, the UAE has established several regulatory bodies, including:

• Dubai Land Department (DLD)
• Abu Dhabi Municipality – Land and Property Sector
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
• Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) 

Always ensure that any transaction is conducted through an entity licensed by one of these authorities.

3. Warning Signs of Real Estate Scams

• Offers significantly below the market price.
• Pressure to make a quick decision (“Limited-time opportunity”).
• Requesting advance payments before signing official contracts.
• No clear company address or trade license.
• Contracts that are not registered or approved by official authorities. 

4. Steps to Protect Yourself from Real Estate Fraud

1. Verify the Real Estate Company’s License

Use official platforms such as the Dubai Land Department website to check the license of the broker or developer.

2. Request the Property Registration Number (Oqood Number)

This number ensures the property is officially registered and approved by relevant authorities.

3. Hire a Real Estate Lawyer

A specialized lawyer can review contracts, check legal aspects, and ensure the transaction is legitimate.

4. Avoid Cash Payments or Transfers to Individuals

Ensure all payments are made through licensed company accounts and documented methods (cheques, official bank transfers).

5. Document and Register All Contracts

Any sales or rental contract must be registered with the relevant authority (e.g., RERA or DLD) to be legally enforceable.

5. What to Do If You Fall Victim to Real Estate Fraud

If you become a victim of real estate fraud in the UAE, act immediately:

1. Contact the local police and file an official report.
2. Approach the relevant real estate authority to lodge a complaint.
3. Hire a lawyer to file a case in court.
4. Gather all evidence such as contracts, communications, receipts, and broker details. 

6. Additional Tips for Real Estate Investors in the UAE

• Do not rely solely on pictures or models—visit the project site in person.
• Verify delivery dates and credibility of project timelines.
• Check the developer’s reputation and track record.
• Avoid dealing with unlicensed or unregistered brokers. 

7. How UAE Law Protects You

The UAE has implemented strict regulations to protect consumers and investors in the real estate sector, including:

• Laws governing the relationship between developers and buyers.
• Cybercrime laws to prevent forgery and fraud.
• Buyer rights to withdraw from a purchase within a specific period.
• Severe penalties for unlicensed companies and fake brokers.

 

8. A Quick Guide to Buying Property Safely in the UAE

Step	Action
1	Choose a licensed broker or developer.
2	Verify the license on the official real estate authority website.
3	Visit the property or project site.
4	Confirm property details including size, price, and delivery date.
5	Review the contract with a real estate lawyer.
6	Sign only after official documentation.
7	Register the property with the relevant authority.

Family disputes such as divorce, alimony, and child custody have become increasingly common in Dubai due to evolving social and economic dynamics. At Eagle Legal Consultancy, we understand how sensitive and life-changing these matters can be, and we’re here to offer you a clear, legal perspective on your rights and obligations under UAE Personal Status Law.

1. Divorce in Dubai – How Does It Work?

Divorce in Dubai can happen mutually or through a court case if there is a conflict. Both UAE nationals and expatriates can file for divorce, and they may choose to apply UAE law or their home country’s law, depending on their circumstances and the court’s decision.

Divorce Procedure in Dubai:

1. File a request at the Family Guidance Section at Dubai Courts.
2. Attend reconciliation sessions with a family counselor.
3. If reconciliation fails, the case proceeds to court.
4. The judge reviews evidence and issues a ruling.

When Can a Wife File for Divorce?

• In cases of emotional or physical harm.
• If the husband fails to provide financial support.
• If there’s prolonged absence or desertion.
• In cases of addiction or abuse.

2. Alimony in UAE – What Are Your Rights?

Alimony (Nafaqa) refers to the financial support a husband must provide to his wife and children. This includes:

• Wife’s alimony: housing, food, clothing, medical expenses.
• Children’s alimony: education, health care, and daily needs.

The court may order temporary alimony during the divorce proceedings, and this amount may later be adjusted depending on changes in financial status.

3. Child Custody in Dubai – Who Gets Custody?

In the UAE, custody is generally awarded to the mother, while the father remains the legal guardian. The goal is always to prioritize the child’s best interests.

Child Custody Rules in Dubai:

• Mothers usually retain custody until:
  • Age 11 for girls.
  • Age 13 for boys.
• After these ages, the father can request custody if he proves it’s in the child’s best interest.

When Can Custody Be Revoked?

• If the custodian remarries (especially if it’s the mother).
• Neglect or failure to meet the child’s basic needs.
• Any environment that poses harm to the child.

4. Why Choose Eagle Legal Consultancy?

At Eagle Legal Consultancy, our experienced divorce and family law lawyers in Dubai are here to support you through:

• Personalized legal consultations.
• Peaceful dispute resolution and mediation.
• Legal representation in court.
• Enforcement of alimony and custody rulings.

Whether you’re protecting your rights or your children’s future, you deserve expert support tailored to your situation.

What is cyberbullying?

Cyber harassment or online abuse includes a range of actions such as threats, defamation, sharing personal photos or information without consent, blackmail, or cyberbullying. These actions can lead to anxiety, depression, and, in severe cases, suicide or psychological disorders.

Legal Framework in the UAE

1. Federal Law No. 34 of 2021 – Combating Cybercrime and Rumors

• Criminalizes Spreading rumors and gossip (Article 52), punishable by up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of not less than 100,000AED.
• Cyber threats (Article 42), punishable by up to two years in prison and fines of 250,000-500,000  Dirhams, up to 10 years if the threat is accompanied by a request.
• Online defamation (Article 43): Imprisonment and fines 250,000-500,000 Dirham (gulfnews.com).
• Violation of privacy: Publishing photos or personal information without permission is punishable by up to6 months and fines of 150,000-500,000dirhams (uaelegislation.gov.ae).
• Posting obscene content or propaganda for pornography (Article 34): Penalties up to imprisonment and fines 250,000-500,000  Dirhams, and stricter for pediatric cases.

 

General penalties for cybercrime

The law also includes (lawyersuae.com):

Type of Cybercrime	Punishment
Harassment/Cyberbullying	Up to 500,000 fineDirhams and up to 3 years imprisonment
Hacking	6 months to 10 years imprisonment + fines (150,000-750,000Dahm)
Electronic Financial Fraud	Up to 1,000,000 fineDirhams + up to 10 years imprisonment

 

How are penalties and reporting methods used?

• Devices and software used to commit the offense will be confiscated (lawyersuae.com, lawyersuae.com).
• Crimes are reported to the public prosecution and the police, who communicate through multiple channels:
• Applications “Hemayati”“My Safe Society “My Safe Society”platform eCrime – Dubai/Abu Dhabior contact999/Al Ameen/8004888/8002626/116111 (gulfnews.com).

 

What should you do if you are harassed?

According to the advice of lawyers and legal experts in the UAE:

1. Documentation of evidence: Save messages, photos, published content.
2. Familiarize yourself with the laws: Such as arrests and fines to understand your rights.
3. Using the blocking and reporting feature via the platform.
4. Limit the sharing of personal information.
5. Immediate reporting through official channels.
6. Hire a legal advisor if necessary.