Emergency Information
Arrest of a U.S Citizen Abroad
While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. For more information on detentions in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, please visit our Criminal Penalties in the UAE page.
If arrested, U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Consulate General for assistance or ask the arresting authority to notify the Consulate General as soon as possible. A consular officer will visit the arrested American, work to protect the detainee's legitimate interests, and ensure that there is no discrimination against the detainee. The consular officer works to ensure that the food, shelter, clothing, medical and dental care provided to the detainee meet acceptable international standards. In Dubai, the U.S. Consulate can also arrange for U.S. citizen detainees to meet with an ombudsman from the Human Rights Department of the Dubai police headquarters, if the detainee believes he or she is not being treated fairly.
The U.S. Consulate will provide information on the local judicial system and a list of local attorneys but cannot recommend a particular individual or pay legal costs. Upon the detainee's written consent, the U.S. Consulate may contact family members or other parties on the detainee's behalf. With the detainee's permission, the U.S. Consulate can assist family members in arranging financial support for and access to the prisoner. Family and friends of incarcerated U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to work closely with the detainee's lawyer regarding details of the judicial proceedings. Consular officers and consular staff cannot act as lawyers, investigators, or enforcers of the law.