I got an SMS summons from UAE Public Prosecution — am I a witness or accused?

The SMS will not tell you — these summonses typically carry only a case number, a date and a location, with no indication of whether you are wanted as a witness or a suspect, and that is normal rather than ominous. You do have ways to find out before the date: the Public Prosecution's smart services let you look up the case using the number you were sent, a call to the office named in the message can sometimes clarify your capacity, and a lawyer can check the file status ahead of your appearance. Whatever you learn, do not skip the date — failing to appear can escalate matters and, for an accused person, can lead to compulsory measures. On your second question: yes, bring a lawyer either way if you can. You are entitled to legal assistance, and capacities are not fixed — people summoned as witnesses are sometimes reclassified once statements are taken, which is precisely the moment you want someone beside you. On the day, take your Emirates ID and passport, answer truthfully and precisely, do not speculate beyond what you know, and ask for an interpreter if questioning is not in a language you are fully comfortable with. A licensed UAE criminal lawyer can review the case number beforehand and accompany you.