How long can the Public Prosecution detain me?
Under Article 107(1), a detention order from the Public Prosecution is made after you are questioned and is valid for seven days, renewable for another period not exceeding 14 days.
Before that order, the shorter limits in Articles 48 and 102 apply: you must reach the Public Prosecution within 48 hours of arrest, and the Prosecutor must question you within 24 hours.
What happens after those periods end?
If the interest of the investigation requires you to stay in pre-trial detention after those periods, the Public Prosecution must submit the case file to a judge of the competent criminal court (Article 107(2)).
The judge reviews the file and hears your statements, then orders either that detention be extended for another renewable period not exceeding 30 days, or that you be released with or without bail. The periods are renewable, and Article 107 as published does not state a single overall maximum, so ask a lawyer how it applies to your case.
Can I challenge an extension?
Yes, in one situation the law spells out. Article 107(3) allows you to submit a grievance to the chief justice of the court against an order extending detention that was made in your absence, within three days from being notified or becoming aware of the order.
The deadline is short, which is why early legal involvement matters.
Can I be released before trial?
Yes. Under Article 108(2) the Public Prosecution may order provisional release at any time, on its own initiative or on your request, unless you have already been sent to court, in which case release is for the court.
There is one restriction. Article 108(1) says a person held for a crime punishable by death or a life sentence can only be released with the approval of the Attorney General or his deputy. Release on conditions is covered in our bail application guide.
What should I do first?
Ask your lawyer to see the detention order
The periods and dates matter.
Diary the deadlines
7 and 14 days, then 30 days, and the 3 days for a grievance.
Prepare a release request
Residence, employment, family and a plan to attend every hearing.
Stay in contact with your lawyer
Detention hearings are short and need preparation.
Call us on +971 50 653 1334 or message us on WhatsApp. We answer at any hour.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the first detention order?
Seven days after questioning, renewable for another period not exceeding 14 days (Article 107(1)).
Who can extend detention beyond that?
A judge of the competent criminal court, for a renewable period not exceeding 30 days, after reviewing the file and hearing you (Article 107(2)).
Is there a time limit to object to an extension?
A grievance to the chief justice against an extension made in your absence must be filed within three days of notification or knowledge (Article 107(3)).
Can the prosecution release me without a court?
Yes, at any time before the case is sent to court, on its own initiative or on your request (Article 108(2)).
Related guides
Arrest & Detention overview
The main points, the process and your first steps.
Read the overviewRights After Arrest
What the law says must happen after an arrest: being told the charge, the right to remain silent, access to a lawyer, an interpreter and the time limits for seeing the prosecution.
Read the guideBail Application
Who decides on release, what forms bail can take, how it is paid, and what happens to the money if conditions are broken.
Read the guideSources
Source: official English text of the Criminal Procedures Law on the UAE Legislation portal, checked 9 October 2026. The portal lists the law as active, in force from 1 March 2023 and last updated on 28 September 2023. The Arabic text prevails over translations.
This page is general information, not legal advice.