Forgery is a serious crime in the UAE and is treated with zero tolerance under Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 and Federal Decree-Law No. 34/2021 to safeguard its legal and financial systems. The implications of forgery—be it document manipulation, signature falsification, or digital fraud—can be severe and long-lasting. Whether you’re a resident, expat, or business owner, understanding the Forgery Punishment in UAE is crucial to avoiding legal trouble.
What is the Difference Between Forgery and Falsification?
While both forgery and falsification involve dishonesty and deception, there are some key differences:
- Forgery refers specifically to the act of falsely making or altering a document, signature, or object with the intent to deceive. It typically involves creating something new or modifying an existing document.
- Falsification, on the other hand, can include tampering with a document, record, or piece of evidence to mislead others, but may not always involve creating new documents or signatures. It can also extend to altering data or records, especially in business settings.
What are the Different Types of Forgery Recognized in UAE?
The UAE categorizes forgery into several types, each with specific legal consequences:
Document Forgery
Document forgery is the most common type of forgery in the UAE. This could involve altering contracts, fake ID cards, or other official documents. It’s illegal to forge any document that has legal value, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, visas, and business licenses.
Signature Forgery
Signature forgery occurs when someone imitates another person’s signature without their consent. This could be done to execute a contract, withdraw money from a bank account, or falsify legal agreements.
This common type often arises in personal disputes or corporate fraud. Even a fake signature on a delivery form can land you in trouble.
Currency Forgery
Counterfeit money is a major issue in many countries, and the UAE is no exception. Forging or circulating fake currency is a serious criminal offense, as it threatens the financial system and the economy.
Corporate Forgery
Corporate forgery involves falsifying business documents or financial records. This could include fabricating invoices, tax documents, or financial statements to evade taxes or gain an unfair business advantage.
Digital Forgery (Cybercrime)
Tampering with or creating falsified digital documents, emails, or electronic records to deceive.
Counterfeiting
Creating fake currency, cheques, or branded items with the intent to pass them off as genuine.
Art Forgery
Producing or selling fake art while claiming it is original, often with forged certificates of authenticity.
Seal Forgery
This refers to counterfeiting official government or corporate stamps to authenticate fake documents.
Each of these types can result in severe penalties under UAE law, depending on the intent, damage caused, and the specific items forged.
Also Read : Fraud Case Punishment in UAE: Know the Laws & Penalties
UAE Legal Framework on Forgery
The UAE has strict laws to combat forgery, including:
1- Federal Law No. 3 of 1987 (Penal Code)
- Article 216-223 define forgery and prescribe punishments.
- Article 217 covers forgery of official documents, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
- Deportation for expatriates upon conviction.
2- Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 (Cybercrime Law)
- Cyber forgery (e.g., hacking, fake emails) can lead to imprisonment and fines up to AED 2 million.
3- UAE Central Bank Laws on Financial Forgery
- Counterfeiting money or financial documents carries life imprisonment.
What is Forgery Punishment in UAE?
Penalties vary based on the type and severity of forgery:
Penalties Under the UAE Penal Code
- Article 216: Forgery of official documents → Up to 10 years in prison and Fines up to AED 100,000 or more, depending on severity.
- Article 217: Using forged documents → 5-10 years imprisonment.
- Article 399: Signature forgery → 1-3 years in jail + fines (up to AED 100,000).
Forgery Punishment in UAE Under Federal Decree-Law No. 34/2021 (Cybercrime Law)
- Digital forgery (e.g., hacking, fake emails) → 1-5 years + fines (up to AED 2 million).
- Forging electronic payment records → Life imprisonment in severe cases.
What Are the Consequences of Forged Degree Certificates?
- Job termination + blacklisting.
- Criminal charges: Up to 5 years in prison.
Forgery Punishment in UAE for Forging Bank Loan Documents
- Imprisonment: 3–10 years + fines (Up to AED 500,000).
- Example: Submitting fake salary certificates, altering property ownership documents.
Our law firm offers defense services for individuals accused of forgery. Our Criminal lawyers in Dubai specialize in challenging digital and document evidence and negotiating reduced penalties.
What is the Procedure for Filing a Forgery Case in UAE?
- Report the incident to local police (Dubai Police).
- Submit all relevant evidence (documents, messages, emails).
- Police will transfer the matter to Public Prosecution.
- Legal proceedings begin with investigation and trial.
How to Prevent Forgeries
- Securing Documents
Use watermarking, holograms, and secure printing methods.
- Authentication Technology
Employ digital signatures, blockchain verification, and encryption.
- User Education
Train employees and individuals to detect fake signatures.
- Careful Hiring
Conduct background checks and validate submitted credentials.
How Can Our Criminal Lawyers Help in Forgery Cases?
Importance of Legal Representation
- If you are accused of forgery, it is critical to seek legal counsel immediately. Our criminal lawyers in Dubai will help you understand the charges, the evidence against you, and possible defenses.
Possible Defenses and Mitigation
- Our criminal lawyers in Dubai can present various defenses, negotiate plea deals, prove lack of fraudulent intent, and help reduce the severity of the punishment. In some cases, Our lawyers may be able to get the charges dropped entirely if they find procedural errors in the investigation or trial.
Navigating UAE’s Court System
- The UAE’s legal system may be complicated for those unfamiliar with it. Our experienced criminal lawyers will guide you through the legal procedures, ensure your rights are protected, and represent you in court.
If you or someone you know is facing forgery charges in the UAE, Contact our criminal defense lawyers to protect your rights and seek the best legal outcome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, forgery punishment in UAE is taken very seriously due to the potential harm it can cause to individuals, businesses, and even the nation. If you or someone you know is facing forgery charges, it’s essential to understand the consequences and seek professional legal assistance. The laws around forgery are complex, and experienced lawyers can help mitigate the punishment and ensure the best possible outcome.
FAQ About Forgery Punishment in UAE
1. What is the penalty for forgery in UAE?
Forgery in the UAE can result in imprisonment and fines. The penalty varies depending on the nature of the forgery and its impact.
2. What is the maximum penalty for forgery?
The maximum penalty for forgery in the UAE can be up to 15 years in prison, along with substantial fines.
3. What is the punishment for submitting fake documents?
Submitting fake documents in the UAE can lead to imprisonment and fines, with more severe consequences for those committing forgery on a larger scale.
4. What is the fine for forgery in UAE?
Fines for forgery can range from thousands to millions of dirhams, depending on the scale of the fraud and the documents involved.
5. What is the maximum punishment for forgery?
The maximum punishment for forgery in the UAE is 15 years in prison, especially if the forgery involves large sums of money or official government documents.
6. What are three types of forgery?
Three common types of forgery in the UAE are document forgery, signature forgery, and currency forgery.
7. What is the punishment for a fake degree certificate in the UAE?
Forging a degree certificate can result in imprisonment, fines, and damage to the individual’s reputation, as well as possible legal action against employers who use such documents.
8. What is Signature forgery punishment in Dubai?
Punishment for signature forgery in Dubai can involve prison sentences, fines, and possible civil claims for damages, depending on the severity.
9. How can businesses prevent signature forgery in the UAE?
Businesses can prevent signature forgery by using secure digital signatures, conducting regular audits, and training employees on identifying fraudulent activities.
10. How can a lawyer help if accused of forgery in the UAE?
A lawyer can help by providing legal defense strategies, negotiating settlements, and navigating the legal.