
Does UAE Have an Extradition Treaty with USA
International law becomes complicated when treaties, laws, jurisdictions, and political interests are involved. They often clash or overlap with each other, adding more complexity to the matter. Extradition between the UAE and the USA garners a lot of attention. However, United Arab Emirates or does not have a bilateral or multilateral extradition treaty with the United States of America or USA. It clearly shows that there is no dedicated contract, or treaty-based legal alliance or consensus between these two countries regards to EXTRADITION. It does not mean that it will not be possible in future.
International Cooperation without a Treaty is also possible. There is no direct extradition treaty between the two countries, but this does not mean, there has been no cooperation between two countries. UAE can process U.S. requests and vice versa, if come under the legal frameworks of both countries. It states that if UAE has to request the extradition of an individual from USA but under similar circumstances, the USA might be or can be responding in kind way. USA can cooperate with UAE based on the request of UAE. Request are checked and considered by the UAE judiciary to ensure it aligns with local legal requirements. Let’s cut it short, UAE and USA can cooperate with each other if they want. Let’s discuss ESTRADITION under UAE Law.
What is Extradition under UAE Law?
It refers to the formal procedure that allows one nation to hand over its individual to another nation. It is normal to prosecute or punish the individual for serious criminal offences. It is applicable to individuals located in one country but who want another jurisdiction. The courts receiving the request to review it and to ensure its legal compliance. It is a good way to catch fugitives across the borders. However, it should not be contradicting with human rights as well.
Extradition and Dubai:
Extradition treaty in Dubai is mainly administered by the federal law no 39 of 2006 on mutual Judicial Cooperation in Criminal Matters. It elaborates on the procedural steps for receiving the requests from the foreign government or states. It also includes the United States of America. The requests must adhere to the rigorous legal channels. There should be no violation of the public order or the sovereignty of the Emirates. Furthermore, UAE authorities assess whether the alleged crimes are recognized as per the UAE law or not. If the offense is not declared as a criminal offense in UAE, the request may be declined. Moreover, it is not necessary that all extradition requests lead to surrender, even when the parties are part of a treaty. Therefore, UAE courts can refuse extradition if:
- If the matter is more political.
- It is set as planted activity against someone.
- The offense is not an offence as per UAE Law.
An extradition treaty does not mean every request is entertained. There are specific conditions that must be fulfilled for the request to be taken into consideration. It must be valid and legitimate as per the UAE law.
The crime should be punishable under both jurisdictions. This is called the ‘Principle of Dual Criminality”. You can learn more with our lawyers about Principle of Dual Criminality. The individual should not be a UAE national. According to the UAE constitution, the UAE nationals are exempt from the extradition of their citizens. The request made should include the full-fledged documentation, like arrest warrants, legal charge sheet, and the proof or evidence.
Besides, there should be no risk of torture, political prosecution, or unfair trial in the request. UAE courts work together with the Ministry of Justice to evaluate the risk factor before the legal procedure. You can also find good extradition lawyers in Dubai.
The role of Lawyers in Extradition requests:
The role of law firms in Dubai is pivotal. They are instrumental in representing the rights of the individuals charged. The well-versed Dubai lawyers scrutinize the legality of the request made.
Often, these cases are highly complicated. They are sensitive legally and also involve layers of judicial and diplomatic communication. Seasoned lawyers in Dubai are hired to defend individuals facing extradition cases. They are professionals who are capable of assessing the charges. They also review the treaty obligations and analyze the entire situation. Dubai law firms present the legal arguments against the unlawful surrender.
- The defense should be well prepared and supported by the paperwork. The individuals must get the services of a specialized Dubai lawyer who ensures fair treatment and safeguards their interests.
High-Profile Extradition Cases in the UAE:
In recent years, there have been an increasing number of high-profile extradition requests being reported. It involves the business executives, political figures, and international fraud suspects. This has drawn massive global attention.
This represents how complex the extradition cases can be. For instance, individuals who are directly involved in financial crimes in the UAE are located in Dubai. This promotes extradition demands.
Moreover, the UAE can deny the requests due to a legal technicality or a lack of alignment with UAE laws. Every case contributes to the growing body of precedents. This strengthens the challenges, and also the future decision is built on this basis.
- The role of renowned Dubai Law Firms is crucial. They usually represent the individuals who are often highlighted in the due procedure. They also argue for comprehensive judicial reviews. They emphasize the need to follow UAE constitutional safeguards.
Political Crimes and Human Rights:
The UAE has taken a firm stance on extraditing individuals. It is made clear who is charged with political crimes. As per the UAE law, the international agreements and treaties are honored. However, the requests that are perceived as politically motivated will be turned down on an immediate basis. This is a principle that ensures people’s safety, and they are not punished for dissent or holding different political perspectives.
Besides, if there is sufficient evidence that extradition has led to torture or inhumane treatment, the Dubai courts will automatically reject the extradition request. Added, where there is a compromised legal procedure, a similar thing will happen.
Human rights are given utmost priority in the UAE. The UAE remains committed to maintaining the integrity and transparency of the UAE legal system. The role of competent Dubai lawyers goes beyond the legal representation in courts. They engage in negotiations with the public prosecutors and provide consular services. Our lawyers in Dubai are known for carefully handling the appeals made. They also have multilingual teams who ensure international clients are entertained. The international partnerships allow for detailed legal support for the clients. You can meet and hire our competent lawyers in UAE.


