Can I sue a contractor for building defects in the UAE?

Yes. In the UAE you can pursue a contractor for building defects, and the route depends on the type of defect and your contract. For serious structural defects or collapse, the UAE Civil Transactions Law imposes mandatory decennial (ten-year) liability on the contractor and supervising engineer, which cannot be contracted out of. For non-structural or workmanship defects, your remedy usually flows from the contract's defects-liability/maintenance period and general contractual obligations, allowing you to require repair or claim the cost of making good. Practically, start by documenting the defects (photos, dates, an independent engineer's report), notify the contractor in writing, and check your contract's defects-liability provisions and any retention held. If the contractor does not remedy the defects, you can escalate to the dispute-resolution forum named in the contract — arbitration or the competent court. Time limits apply, so do not delay. Because defect claims turn on technical evidence and the correct legal basis, an engineering report plus legal advice is the strongest start. Compare verified UAE construction professionals on LEXAI for your situation.