The Attorney General’s Office of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most critical institutions in the country’s judicial system. Serving as the nation’s highest public prosecution authority, this office ensures that the UAE’s legal framework is enforced fairly, consistently, and in accordance with the Constitution.
Whether it’s leading high-profile investigations, protecting public interest, or supervising prosecution activities across the Emirates, the UAE Attorney General’s Office plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rule of law.
🏛️ What is the Role of the UAE Attorney General?
The Attorney General is the chief of the Public Prosecution in the UAE and serves as the central figure in criminal justice enforcement. Appointed by Federal Decree, the Attorney General heads the federal prosecution authority and works closely with various judicial and law enforcement bodies.
The office operates under the Federal Judiciary Authority, ensuring that justice is not only delivered but also administered in alignment with the country’s evolving legal and societal needs.
📋 Key Responsibilities of the Attorney General’s Office
The Attorney General’s Office carries out a wide range of legal duties. Some of its core responsibilities include:
✅ Supervision of Public Prosecution Offices
The Attorney General oversees the operations of public prosecution departments in each Emirate. This ensures uniform application of criminal laws across the UAE and promotes consistency in legal proceedings.
✅ Initiation and Oversight of Criminal Proceedings
The office authorizes and supervises criminal prosecutions. It ensures that evidence is gathered lawfully and that accused persons receive fair treatment in line with legal procedures.
✅ Legal Guidance to Government Bodies
Government agencies often rely on the Attorney General’s legal opinions and interpretations when handling sensitive legal or constitutional matters.
✅ Oversight of Judicial Investigations
From fraud and corruption to cybercrime and narcotics, the Attorney General’s Office provides direction in complex investigations, ensuring national and public interests are protected.
✅ Promoting Accountability and Anti-Corruption
The Attorney General has the authority to investigate government officials and entities if misconduct or corruption is suspected. This accountability is vital for maintaining public trust in government institutions.
🔍 Organizational Structure
The UAE Attorney General’s Office works at both federal and local levels. Its organizational structure includes:
- Federal Public Prosecution – Handles national-level cases and inter-Emirate matters
- Local Prosecution Departments – Operate in each Emirate, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and others
- Specialized Divisions – Cover areas such as economic crimes, human trafficking, cybercrime, and juvenile cases
This structure ensures efficient administration of justice, regardless of the case’s complexity or location.
🧠 Smart Legal Transformation and Technology
The UAE has integrated smart technologies into its justice system, and the Attorney General’s Office is no exception. Initiatives include:
- Digital complaint filing platforms
- Remote investigation systems
- AI-driven legal document reviews
- Virtual hearings and case tracking tools
These tools enhance efficiency, reduce administrative delays, and make legal services more accessible to the public.
📞 Public Interaction and Accessibility
Although the Attorney General’s role is primarily supervisory and legal, the office also plays a public-facing role. It facilitates:
- Submission of legal complaints by individuals or organizations
- Whistleblower protection in corruption cases
- Community awareness on legal rights and responsibilities
Most Emirates now offer digital portals where residents can track prosecution cases, request information, and submit inquiries directly.
🇦🇪 Attorney General of the UAE (as of latest update)
The current Attorney General is Counselor Dr. Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, appointed by federal decree. Under his leadership, the office has emphasized transparency, judicial independence, and alignment with global legal standards.
🔐 Importance of the Attorney General in the UAE
The Attorney General’s Office plays a vital role in:
- Protecting the public and the Constitution
- Maintaining legal integrity in criminal prosecutions
- Ensuring fair and unbiased legal processes
- Monitoring public sector accountability and transparency
Its existence reinforces the idea that no one is above the law, regardless of position or influence.
📌 Final Thoughts
The UAE Attorney General’s Office is not just a legal authority—it’s the backbone of justice and accountability in the country. Through strict oversight, legal innovation, and a commitment to fairness, the office helps maintain public confidence in the rule of law.
From fighting crime to guiding national legal policy, the Attorney General’s Office is a cornerstone of the UAE’s vision for justice, security, and progress.