In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), insults, rumors, and slander are not taken lightly, especially in the workplace.
When faced with offensive verbal attacks, individuals have the option to pursue legal action to address the issue. Disagreements among officemates are not uncommon, but when conflicts escalate into personal insults, it becomes imperative to address the matter beyond the confines of the workplace. Making insulting comments against others is deemed illegal under the UAE penal code. Offenders can face imprisonment for up to two years and a fine of up to Dh20,000.
Even while many citizens of the UAE are aware of these legal requirements, they might not know how to go about making accusations. So the question is: What should one do, and is legal counsel required?
In Dubai, reporting incidents of slander and insults has been streamlined by the Dubai Police, which offers accessible services through digital platforms such as their website and app.
A Step-by-Step Guide
Before initiating the complaint process, individuals need to gather pertinent details, including:
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Emirates ID
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Contact information of the offending party or parties (name, address, phone number, workplace details)
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Description of the incident
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The nearest police station to the area
Online Procedure
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Access the Dubai Police Website: Visit https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/.
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Select Reporting Services: Click on the 'Reporting Services' option.
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Choose complaint type: Opt for 'File Criminal Complaint.'
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Complete the form: Fill out the required details, specifying 'Insulting case' in the case type dropdown menu.
During the complaint process, individuals will be asked to provide detailed responses to inquiries such as:
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Nature of the insulting remarks
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Date and time of the incident
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Possible motives behind the offense
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History of conflicts with the defendant
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Any use of negative language by the complainant
Upon submission of the complaint, the Dubai Police are expected to contact the complainant for further clarification. Individuals can track the progress of their complaint through the website and may follow up as needed.
Addressing incidents of insults and slander promptly is crucial. Delaying action could potentially allow the situation to escalate further, leading to prolonged stress and discord in the workplace. While filing a complaint with the Dubai Police is a straightforward process, individuals may benefit from seeking legal advice, especially if the situation involves complex legal issues or if they anticipate resistance from the offending party.
By taking a stand against insults and slander, individuals contribute to fostering a culture of respect and professionalism in the workplace. Upholding legal standards reinforces the value of mutual dignity and understanding among colleagues. In the UAE, individuals have the right to address instances of insults and slander in the workplace through legal channels. By familiarizing themselves with the reporting process and seeking appropriate assistance when needed, they can uphold their rights and promote a harmonious work environment.
