Cybercrime isn’t just about high-tech break-ins—it’s about protecting your digital life, your finances, and your reputation. The UAE government has solid cybercrime laws, If you’ve fallen victim to a cybercrime, knowing how to report cyber crime in UAE can make all the difference in getting justice and protecting others from falling victim too and contributes to a safer online ecosystem.
Cybercrime Laws in the UAE
The UAE has strict cybercrime regulations under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021. This modern legislation expanded and strengthened penalties surrounding digital offenses. It explicitly addresses hacking, defamation, and cyberbullying—making it clear that anything online can be subject to legal scrutiny.
Key Offenses Covered Under Federal Decree Law No. 34
- Unauthorized access (hacking)
- Online fraud and scams
- Social media defamation and privacy breaches
- Cyberbullying and harassment
- Identity theft
- Illegal access to bank accounts or private data
- Spreading false information online
- Cyber extortion & threats
If it happens online, it matters legally—and knowing this helps you spot behavior that needs reporting.
A Comprehensive Guide to How to Report Cyber Crime in UAE
How to Report Cyber Crimes in UAE, Dubai
Online: Use Dubai Police’s e-Crime platform (www.dubaipolice.gov.ae):
- Visit the Dubai Police e-Crime portal
- Log in using UAE Pass (or create an account)
- Choose your offense type and upload evidence
- Provide your personal details and submit
- Receive a case reference
In-Person: Visit the Cyber Crime Department at Dubai Police HQ.
Hotline: Call 901 (Dubai Police Emergency).
How to Report Cyber Crimes in UAE, Abu Dhabi
Online
- File a complaint via Abu Dhabi Police’s Aman Service (www.adpolice.gov.ae).
- Via AD Police Smart App : Download the app, log in, and select “Report Cybercrime.” Attach evidence, submit details, and receive a case ID instantly.
- Via MOI Federal Portal : Visit MOI government website and choose Cybercrime from the list of options.
- This is ideal for cross-emirate or serious cases.
In-Person: Visit the Abu Dhabi Police Cyber Crime Unit.
It ensures your case is centralized appropriately and run effectively across both local and federal channels.
How to Report Cyber Crimes in Sharjah
In Sharjah, you can:
Online: Use the Ministry of Interior (MOI) portal (www.moi.gov.ae).
In-Person: Visit Sharjah Police Cyber Crime Division.
They’ll assess, assign a case number, and forward it to local cyber specialists.
Whether you’re a Dubai resident reporting defamation, an Abu Dhabi business under cyberattack, or someone safeguarding family in Sharjah, the UAE’s channels exist to support you.
Common Challenges While Reporting Cyber Crime in UAE
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Insufficient Evidence | Gather complete digital logs and metadata |
| Legal Complexity | Get advice from cybercrime lawyers |
| Jurisdiction Issues | Use the federal MOI channels |
| Privacy Concerns | Anonymous reports are possible (some limitations) |
Before you take action, it’s helpful to understand the potential consequences faced by offenders. Learn more about specific offenses and penalties in our detailed breakdown of Cyber Crime Punishment in UAE.
Tips for Strengthening Your Cyber Crime Complaint
Want to make your case stronger and faster? Here’s how:
- Be clear and specific in your complaint.
- Avoid exaggeration — stick to the facts.
- Include all relevant documents (IDs, messages, emails, transactions).
- File your report as soon as possible — delays can weaken your case.
- Hire a cyber crime lawyer in UAE if your situation is complex or involves large sums of money.
How to Gather Evidence for Reporting Cybercrime
- Screenshots of fraudulent messages/transactions.
- Email headers (for phishing scams).
- Bank statements (if money was stolen).
- Recordings (for blackmail/extortion cases).
- Use digital forensic experts for stubborn cases.
- Organize files (chronological order, dates, timestamps).
How to Report Cyber Crime in UAE Anonymously
- Dubai Police e-Crime allows anonymous reporting.
- MOI portal may provide blind complaint options.
- Submit a complaint via hotlines without revealing personal details.
But anonymity can delay investigation—balance with case strength.
Role of Law Enforcement in Cybercrime Cases
Active cybercrime divisions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah analyze digital evidence, collaborate with TRA/TDRA, and often work with international agencies like Interpol for cross-border crime. They may request device access, IP logs, or app permissions.
Preventing Cyber Crimes: Tips and Advice
✔ Use strong passwords & enable 2FA
✔ Avoid clicking suspicious links
✔ Verify sender details before responding
✔ Never share OTPs or bank details online
✔ Regularly monitor bank statements and online presence
How Our Criminal Lawyers Can Help?
Now, Where having our criminal lawyers in Dubai really makes the process easier — especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start.
- Filing on Your Behalf
Our Lawyers can directly file your case with the police or public prosecution — no confusing forms, no waiting in queues.
- Evidence Gathering
Our cybercrime lawyers know exactly what kind of evidence you need. We’ll guide you through how to collect digital proof properly so it’s admissible in court.
- Communicate with Authorities
Sometimes communication with authorities gets stuck. Our lawyers can act as a bridge — following up with police, negotiating settlements, and speeding up slow processes.
- Legal Recourse for Damages
Beyond reporting, you might be entitled to financial compensation or civil claims — especially in cases of fraud, defamation, or identity misuse.
- Victim Representation in Court
If your case goes to court, Our lawyers will represent you in all legal proceedings — criminal or civil.
Need legal help? Contact our law firm for expert guidance on cybercrime cases in the UAE.
Conclusion
Knowing how to report cyber crime in UAE—whether in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah—helps combat fraud and protect your rights. Whether it’s fraud, hacking, or harassment, UAE authorities provide multiple reporting channels to ensure justice. Stay safe, protect your data, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
FAQs – How to Report Cyber Crime in UAE
1. How to get money back after being scammed online in UAE?
Report ASAP with bank proof. Early police intervention may freeze transactions and recover funds.
2. How to report an online scammer?
Use e-Crime (Dubai), AD Police, or MOI portals. Provide evidence like chats and transaction logs.
3. What is the punishment for cyber crime in UAE?
Penalties include heavy fines, prison sentences, deportation, and asset forfeiture depending on severity.
4. How to report cyber crime in Dubai?
Use Dubai Police e-Crime portal or Smart App, submit evidence, get a case ref, and follow your case online.
5. Can I report cyber crime anonymously in Dubai?
Yes—e-Crime allows it, but anonymous reports may take longer to investigate.
6. What should I do if I experience online harassment or blackmail?
Document everything and report to Dubai/AD/Sharjah cyber units. Consult a lawyer if needed.
7. How to report a scammer in UAE?
Same process—use e-Crime, AD Smart App, or MOI. Provide detailed evidence.
8. How to report cyber crime in Abu Dhabi?
Use AD Police Smart App or MOI portal, follow steps, attach proof, get case ID.
9. How to report cyber crime in Sharjah?
Use Sharjah Police Cybercrime Unit or MOI app, share evidence, and follow up.
10. How can I protect myself from cybercrime in UAE?
Stay security-aware, enable 2FA, avoid suspicious links, check account statements regularly.