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ARTICLE · 12 OCTOBER 2026

Practical Guide To Bounced Cheques In The UAE

MIO Law Firm
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Where a cheque is returned unpaid in the UAE, the holder has two routes to recover the amount: a criminal complaint against the person who issued the cheque, or an application to the execution court for an order that the amount be paid. Which route is available depends on the reason the bank returned the cheque.

United Arab EmiratesLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
MIO & Partners
MIO & Partners

Where a cheque is returned unpaid in the UAE, the holder has two routes to recover the amount: a criminal complaint against the person who issued the cheque, or an application to the execution court for an order that the amount be paid. Which route is available depends on the reason the bank returned the cheque.

First Step: Deposit the Cheque

However strong the suspicion that the account holds no funds, the cheque should still be deposited on or after its date. When the bank declines to pay, it returns the cheque with a notice stating the reason for the return. The reason recorded on that notice determines which route the holder may take.

Can You Open a Criminal Case for a Bounced Cheque in UAE?

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The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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