In today’s hyper-connected world, a legal dispute in one country can lead to arrest in another. Individuals residing in or transiting through Dubai should be aware that international arrest warrants—especially those initiated or executed through UAE authorities—can quickly lead to global consequences. When the United States is involved, the process becomes even more serious.

This article outlines how arrest warrants originating from the UAE may place someone on an international wanted list, how the U.S. and UAE collaborate on extradition, and what legal protection is available.

How International Arrest Warrants Are Initiated by the UAE

International warrants usually begin with a domestic investigation. When UAE authorities have enough evidence to suspect an individual of committing a crime—whether financial, cyber-related, or violent—they may issue a national arrest warrant. If the person is believed to have fled abroad or has connections to other countries, the UAE can then request assistance from Interpol.

Through the Ministry of Interior or Dubai Police, a request is made to Interpol to issue a Red Notice. This alerts all 195 member countries that the person is wanted for prosecution or to serve a sentence. While a Red Notice is not a binding arrest warrant, many countries—including the U.S.—treat it as a valid basis for detention and further legal action.

When a Name Appears in the Global Wanted Database

Once a Red Notice is approved and published, the individual’s name is added to Interpol’s global database. While not all entries are public, many are searchable online. The inclusion of a name signals that the person may face arrest at any international border, including during flights, visa applications, or banking activity.

A common misconception is that only fugitives are listed. In reality, a person may be included on the Interpol Dubai wanted list even if they are unaware of the case against them. This often happens in disputes involving bounced cheques, commercial disagreements, or cases filed in absentia.

For that reason, it is critical to verify your status if you suspect legal action has been taken against you in the UAE. Delays in checking your status could result in arrest abroad without prior warning.

UAE and U.S.: How the Extradition Mechanism Works

Although the UAE and United States do not have a formal bilateral extradition treaty, they do collaborate regularly on the basis of diplomatic arrangements and mutual legal assistance. In practice, this means that extradition between the two countries can and does occur, particularly in serious financial, terrorism, or cybercrime cases.

Under the dubai extradition treaty with us, which exists in practice rather than in formal treaty form, U.S. authorities may request extradition through official diplomatic channels. UAE prosecutors evaluate these requests under local law and with attention to human rights protections. If accepted, the matter proceeds to UAE courts, which must approve the extradition.

Each step in this process is critical. Legal arguments, documentation quality, and the type of offence all influence the decision. Cases involving dual criminality—where the alleged crime is illegal in both jurisdictions—typically proceed more smoothly.

Case Law Involving U.S. Requests: What Precedents Tell Us

Over the past decade, several notable cases have involved American extradition requests. These cases reveal that UAE authorities do not issue blanket approvals. Each matter is scrutinized to determine whether it aligns with domestic law, whether sufficient evidence exists, and whether the individual’s rights are preserved.

In one example, a U.S. national residing in Dubai was accused of securities fraud and faced extradition. Although the request was initially accepted by prosecutors, it was later rejected by the court on grounds of insufficient evidence and lack of procedural safeguards.

Another case involved a dual national charged with tax evasion. Because tax offences are treated differently under UAE law, the court ruled that extradition could not proceed. Such precedents show that even with pressure from U.S. agencies, the UAE maintains legal independence in extradition decisions.

Legal Protection in the Face of Red Notices and Extradition Threats

If you learn that you are listed on Interpol’s Red Notice system, or if you receive notice of an extradition request from the U.S., swift legal action is critical. Working with a lawyer who specializes in international extradition law is essential. Do not attempt to resolve the issue on your own or assume that it will disappear over time.

First, legal counsel can confirm whether your name appears in Interpol’s database. If it does, your attorney may file a challenge with the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files (CCF), the body responsible for reviewing Red Notices. A successful petition can lead to the removal of the notice if it is politically motivated, unfounded, or violates Interpol’s neutrality principles.

Second, in the UAE, your lawyer can prepare a defence against extradition. This may involve showing that the alleged conduct is not a crime under UAE law, that evidence is lacking, or that extradition would breach human rights obligations.

In some cases, courts have ruled in favour of the defendant when it was shown that the extradition request was retaliatory or disproportionate.

Being placed on an international wanted list is a serious matter—but it does not mean automatic guilt or extradition. If you suspect that your name appears on the interpol dubai wanted list, or if you learn of a Dubai extradition treaty with US proceeding initiated against you, your first step should always be legal consultation.

In complex cross-border cases, knowing your rights and acting quickly can mean the difference between freedom and detention. The right legal strategy begins with awareness—and ends with protection.