Introduction
The UAE Attorney General Office holds a crucial role in the nation’s legal and judicial architecture. As the chief prosecutorial authority, it is mandated to uphold justice, enforce the rule of law, and ensure that legal proceedings are conducted with integrity, fairness, and adherence to national values. The Office, officially recognized as the Federal Public Prosecution, is the state’s legal arm in criminal matters, acting independently under the federal judiciary but in coordination with the Ministry of Justice.
With a rapidly evolving legal landscape and a dynamic socio-economic context, the Attorney General’s Office in the UAE not only addresses conventional legal concerns but also leads initiatives in digital justice, public awareness, and international cooperation in law enforcement. This article explores the history, structure, responsibilities, recent developments, and broader significance of this critical institution in the UAE.
Historical Context and Legal Framework
The UAE’s legal system blends civil law traditions with elements of Sharia (Islamic law) and local customs. Since the country’s formation in 1971, there has been a strong emphasis on building an independent and effective judiciary. The Federal Public Prosecution was established as part of this vision, enshrined under the UAE Constitution and regulated by Federal Law No. 35 of 1992 concerning the Criminal Procedure Law.
The Attorney General is appointed by federal decree and operates under the oversight of the Federal Supreme Council and the Ministry of Justice. However, the office enjoys autonomy in judicial matters, ensuring independence from political influence. This independence is central to ensuring that justice is pursued impartially and transparently.
Leadership and Organizational Structure
Attorney General of the UAE
At the helm of the Public Prosecution is the Attorney General, the highest-ranking prosecutorial officer in the country. The Attorney General represents the state in criminal proceedings, oversees public prosecutions, and ensures legal consistency across emirates that are part of the federal judicial system.
Counsellor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi has held the office of Attorney General since 2016. A seasoned legal expert with decades of experience in prosecution and criminal law, Dr. Al Shamsi has led reforms aimed at modernizing the prosecution process, enhancing efficiency, and reinforcing public confidence in the legal system.
Deputy and Assistant Attorneys General
The Attorney General is supported by several Assistant and Deputy Attorneys General, who manage specific divisions such as criminal investigations, legal affairs, public rights protection, and administrative functions. In January 2025, Sultan Ibrahim Abdullah Al-Juwaid was appointed Assistant Attorney General, bringing over 30 years of experience to the role.
Hierarchy of Public Prosecution
Beneath the leadership team, the prosecution service includes:
- Senior Advocates General and Advocates General – who handle major cases and appeals.
- Chief Prosecutors – who manage local prosecution offices and oversee daily case handling.
- Public Prosecutors – who carry out investigations, file charges, conduct interrogations, and represent the state in court.
This structured hierarchy ensures that the prosecution system is both centralized and responsive to local needs.
Core Functions of the Attorney General’s Office
1. Initiation and Oversight of Criminal Proceedings
The Office is responsible for initiating all criminal cases. It has the sole authority to determine whether criminal proceedings should be launched, discontinued, or referred to trial. Prosecutors evaluate evidence submitted by law enforcement, interrogate suspects, question witnesses, and guide the course of justice based on facts and legal provisions.
2. Safeguarding Public Interest and Rule of Law
The Public Prosecution acts as the guardian of public interest. It ensures that justice is not only pursued but also seen to be done. This includes protecting victims, ensuring due process for the accused, and maintaining the legal balance in society. The office is also responsible for handling cases of corruption, economic crimes, and offenses against state security.
3. Representation Before Federal Courts
The Attorney General and designated prosecutors represent the federal government in criminal trials at various court levels, including the Federal Court of First Instance, Courts of Appeal, and the Federal Supreme Court.
4. Monitoring Judicial Conduct
In addition to prosecutorial duties, the Attorney General’s Office may oversee the conduct of judges and prosecutors. It has the power to investigate breaches of professional ethics or misconduct and recommend disciplinary actions when necessary.
5. Issuing Legal Opinions and Public Guidance
The Office plays an educational and preventive role by issuing legal clarifications, raising public awareness, and engaging in community outreach. These initiatives are especially crucial in areas such as cybercrime, narcotics, domestic violence, and fraud prevention.
Digital Transformation and Modernization Efforts
In recent years, the UAE Attorney General’s Office has made significant progress in embracing technology and digital transformation. Key initiatives include:
1. Smart Prosecution Systems
The UAE has introduced smart systems for filing complaints, tracking case progress, and conducting remote hearings. These innovations reduce delays and ensure better accessibility for citizens.
2. E-Services and Online Reporting
The Public Prosecution offers several digital services via its official portal and the UAE Public Prosecution App, including online case status tracking, requests for legal opinions, and digital summons.
3. AI and Data Analysis in Legal Decisions
Advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and data analytics, are being employed to identify crime patterns, detect fraud, and assist prosecutors in making informed decisions.
Public Outreach and Social Media Engagement
The Public Prosecution Office has significantly enhanced its social media presence, using platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to disseminate information. Short legal awareness videos, announcements of legal reforms, and updates on high-profile cases are frequently shared to promote transparency and legal literacy.
One notable example is the launch of the “Know Your Rights” campaign, aimed at educating residents and expatriates about their legal protections and responsibilities under UAE law.
International Cooperation
The UAE Attorney General’s Office plays a vital role in international legal cooperation, especially in matters of extradition, money laundering, and combating transnational crime. It works closely with Interpol, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and other global entities to uphold international legal standards.
High-profile cases, including those involving financial crimes and international fugitives, have demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to global legal cooperation and law enforcement coordination.
Recent Developments and High-Profile Cases
The Office has handled several prominent cases in recent years, including:
- Cybercrime Crackdowns – targeting online fraud, hacking, and digital extortion.
- Anti-Drug Campaigns – leading prosecution against trafficking networks with international links.
- Economic Crimes – prosecuting white-collar crimes, including embezzlement and corporate fraud.
In each case, the Attorney General’s Office demonstrated its ability to respond swiftly and lawfully, ensuring accountability while safeguarding the legal rights of all involved.
Conclusion
The UAE Attorney General’s Office stands as a pillar of justice, legality, and transparency in the federation’s governance system. Through its robust legal authority, hierarchical organization, and commitment to modern judicial practices, the Office ensures that justice is not only done but perceived as fair, efficient, and equitable.
As the UAE continues to develop as a regional and global leader, the Attorney General’s Office will remain central to its success—protecting the rights of individuals, preserving public order, and enforcing the rule of law across all levels of society.