Can I still file a criminal complaint for a bounced cheque in the UAE?

For a cheque that simply bounced because the account lacked funds, the criminal route is generally no longer available — that scenario was decriminalised when Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2020 took effect on 2 January 2022, and it is now handled through civil execution. However, criminal complaints remain possible where the drawer acted in bad faith. Examples include the drawer instructing the bank to stop payment of a valid cheque without a lawful reason, deliberately closing or freezing the account to prevent the cheque from clearing, or other fraudulent conduct connected to the cheque. In those situations the matter can still be pursued criminally, with penalties determined by the court. So whether you can file a criminal complaint depends on the facts: an ordinary unpaid cheque points you to enforcement court, while deliberate manipulation may justify a criminal report. Because the distinction is fact-sensitive, it is worth having your situation reviewed. You can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI to assess whether a criminal or civil route fits your case.