What should I do if someone gave me a cheque that bounced in Dubai?

If a cheque you received bounced in Dubai, start by getting the bank's written confirmation that the cheque was not paid (and, where relevant, that only partial funds were available). Since the reform that took effect on 2 January 2022 under Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2020, that returned cheque functions as an executory instrument: you can take it, with the bank's evidence, directly to the execution court to recover the amount, instead of first filing a separate civil lawsuit. The bank should also have paid out any partial balance, and you keep the right to pursue the remainder. Before escalating, it is often worth contacting the issuer, as many disputes settle once enforcement is clearly on the table. Keep every document — the cheque, the return memo, and any communications. The exact filing steps, required documents and any court fees are set by Dubai Courts, so confirm them directly. To prepare an execution file or weigh settlement versus enforcement, you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI.