What should I do if someone is blackmailing me online?

Do not pay. Payment rarely ends the blackmail and can be used as evidence of your acknowledgment. Immediately take screenshots of all communications, block the person on all platforms, and contact us and the Dubai Police Cybercrime Unit. Under Article 42 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, online extortion and blackmail carry severe criminal penalties.

Can I sue someone for sharing my private photos without consent?

Yes. Under Articles 15–17 of Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, sharing private photos or videos without consent is a criminal offence. You can also pursue a civil claim for damages. We advise on urgent injunctions to remove content and on parallel criminal complaints.

Someone is impersonating me online. What are my legal options?

Online identity theft is criminalised under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021. You can file a criminal complaint and seek civil damages. We also assist with platform-level takedown requests and injunctions requiring removal of fake profiles.

Can the UAE prosecute cybercrime that occurred outside the country?

Yes. UAE courts have broad extra-territorial jurisdiction under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021. If the offence targeted a UAE resident, used a UAE-based system, or its effects were felt in the UAE, the courts may assert jurisdiction.

Cybercrime Lawyers in Dubai, UAE

Cyber Crime Lawyers in Dubai — Federal Law No. 34 of 2021

The UAE has one of the most comprehensive cybercrime legislative frameworks in the region. Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes (replacing Federal Law No. 5 of 2012) criminalises a broad range of digital offences with penalties including imprisonment and fines up to AED 3 million.
Whether you are a victim of cybercrime seeking prosecution or compensation, or an individual or business facing cyber-related criminal charges, Hessa Al Hammadi Advocates provides experienced, specialist representation.

Cybercrime Offences Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021

Online Fraud & Financial Scams

Legal action against perpetrators of online financial fraud, phishing, romance scams, and digital deception causing financial loss.

Hacking & Unauthorised Access

Representing victims of system breaches and mounting robust defences for individuals charged with unauthorised computer access under UAE law.

Cyberstalking & Online Harassment

Obtaining urgent protective orders and pursuing criminal complaints against cyberstalkers, online harassers, and digital abusers.

Online Defamation

Pursuing compensation and criminal complaints for reputational damage caused by false publications, social media posts, and harmful digital content.

Identity Theft

Legal remedies and criminal complaints for victims of digital identity theft, data misuse, and unauthorised use of personal information online.

Cybercrime Defence

Robust criminal defence for individuals facing charges under UAE Cybercrime Law — from investigation through to trial and appeal.

Cybercrime Offences Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021

Unauthorised access to IT systems and electronic networks (Article 2) — penalty up to AED 3 million
Electronic fraud and financial cybercrime (Articles 7–9)
Online defamation and insult (Articles 43–44) — imprisonment and/or fines
Publishing false information and rumours that harm public order (Article 52)
Privacy violations — unlawful photographing, recording, or sharing of private content (Articles 15–17)
Phishing and identity theft (Articles 7–9)
Hacking and data interception (Articles 2–6)
Extortion and blackmail using electronic means (Article 42)
Cryptocurrency-related cybercrimes

Our Cyber Crime Services

Advising victims on filing cybercrime complaints with the Dubai Police Cybercrime Unit and TDRA
Pursuing civil claims for damages resulting from cybercrime under UAE law
Criminal defence representation from investigation through to trial and appeal
Emergency injunctions to remove unlawful online content
Social media defamation and privacy violation claims
Corporate cybercrime incident response — legal advice post-breach
Compliance advice for businesses on Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021

How We Approach Your Matter

Other Services

Litigation

Resolve legal disputes effectively with our trusted litigation services in the UAE. Our experienced team specializes in civil, commercial, real estate, employment, and corporate litigation, providing strategic representation tailored to your needs. We navigate the complexities of UAE federal laws, DIFC courts, and arbitration proceedings to secure favorable outcomes.

Arbitration

Simplify dispute resolution with our expert arbitration services in the UAE. Our skilled legal team specializes in handling domestic and international arbitration cases across industries, including construction, real estate, commercial, and corporate disputes.

Legal Consultation

Navigate UAE’s complex legal framework with confidence through our professional legal consultation services. Our experienced team provides tailored advice on civil, corporate, real estate, employment, and family law, ensuring full compliance with UAE regulations.

Construction Law

With requirements for Construction Lawyer in UAE complex construction projects that involve several parties, contracts, and rules are not uncommon.

Family Law

At our law consultants in Dubai, we know that legal issues involving family can be very emotional and hard to deal with. No matter if you need help with divorce, child custody, spousal support, or something else related to family law, our team of experienced in Family lawyers in Dubai.

Labor law

Corporate activity, more than in other jurisdictions, underpins every facet of commercial life in the UAE. We offer practical and effective advice covering all kinds of corporate and commercial matters and support most aspects of what a business requires through its lifecycle.

Rental disputes

Facing a rental dispute? Our expert team offers comprehensive legal assistance to landlords and tenants. We handle issues like lease agreements, evictions, rent arrears, and property damage. Trust us to provide clear guidance and effective resolution to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today for professional support in rental disputes.

Criminal law

Facing criminal charges is a daunting experience that requires expert legal guidance. Our team of seasoned criminal lawyers offers comprehensive support and representation for a wide range of offenses. We work diligently to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Trust us to navigate the complexities of criminal law with dedication and expertise.

Civil Law

Navigate the complexities of UAE civil law with confidence. Our expert legal team specializes in contract disputes, property settlements, debt recovery, and employment issues, ensuring compliance with the UAE's legal framework. With extensive experience in federal laws, Dubai-specific regulations, and DIFC proceedings, we provide tailored solutions to safeguard your rights.

Real Estate Law

Secure your investments with trusted guidance in UAE real estate law. Our specialized legal team assists with property transactions, lease agreements, developer disputes, and regulatory compliance. Navigate RERA regulations, freehold property laws, and off-plan project disputes with confidence. Whether you're buying, selling, or leasing, we ensure smooth processes and protect your rights.

Commercial Law

Navigate the dynamic business landscape of the UAE with expert commercial law services. Our team specializes in company formation, contract drafting, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and dispute resolution. Whether you're dealing with UAE Federal Law, DIFC regulations, or free zone requirements, we ensure your business operates smoothly and in full compliance.

Cyber Crime

Protect your digital rights with expert legal support. We handle cybercrime cases such as online fraud, defamation, hacking, and identity theft, offering swift, confidential, and personalized guidance to individuals and businesses in today’s digital landscape.

Cryptocurrency Disputes

Expert legal support for cryptocurrency disputes, including fraud, asset recovery, and contract breaches. We help protect your digital assets with clear strategies tailored to the evolving world of virtual currencies and blockchain.

Common Questions Answered

What should I do if I am a victim of online fraud in the UAE?

Act immediately: preserve all evidence (screenshots, transaction records, communications), do not transfer any more funds, and contact our team and the relevant cybercrime authority. Time is critical — funds are often moved quickly by fraudsters. Early legal intervention is essential to maximise recovery prospects.

Is online defamation a criminal offence in the UAE?

Yes. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, publishing false information, defamatory content, or content that harms a person’s reputation online is a criminal offence carrying substantial fines and potential imprisonment. The UAE takes online defamation extremely seriously — both for victims pursuing claims and individuals who may unknowingly be in violation.

Can I post negative reviews of businesses online in the UAE?

Genuine, factual customer reviews are generally protected. However, false statements, exaggerated claims, or content published with the intent to harm a business may expose the publisher to criminal liability under UAE Cybercrime Law. We advise both individuals and businesses on the boundaries of permissible online expression.

What are the penalties for hacking under UAE law?

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021, hacking (unauthorised access to computer systems) carries penalties of imprisonment of up to 3 years and fines of up to AED 500,000, with higher penalties for government systems or cases involving financial benefit. Penalties increase significantly for aggravated offences.