Is my controlling husband's secret tracking of my car legal?

Wa Alaykum Salam,

Thank you for your inquiry!

Regarding the above, we would like to inform you that, it is important to understand that your privacy and personal security are protected by law in the UAE.

Secretly installing a tracking device on your car without your consent is a violation of your privacy and can be considered illegal under the UAE's laws.

Specifically, this act may fall under Article 431 of the UAE Penal Code, which criminalizes any act that invades someone's privacy.

It includes surveillance, eavesdropping, or monitoring someone's activities without their knowledge or consent.

Additionally, this type of action could also be considered a form of harassment, which is illegal under the UAE law.

In your situation, it would be advisable to:

- Gather evidence:

Try to confirm the presence of the tracking device and keep any relevant evidence (such as photos or documentation).

- Consult a lawyer:

You should seek legal advice to understand your rights fully and determine the next steps you can take, including whether you can file a complaint with the authorities.

- Report to the police:

If you are comfortable doing so, you can report the issue to the police. They will investigate the matter and take appropriate action against the violation of your privacy.

If you're experiencing controlling behavior, especially actions that interfere with your personal autonomy and security, you should take steps to protect yourself, whether through legal means or other appropriate support channels.

Please let me know if you need further clarification or assistance in this matter.

Kind regards,

Mohammed Salah

Legal Consultant

Under Article 431 of the Federal Penal Code, it is prohibited to violate the privacy of others in any way, including spying or tracking.

It is illegal to place a tracking device in your car without your consent.

A person who commits such acts may face:

- A fine of up to 500,000 dirhams.

- Imprisonment depending on the nature of the violation.

For assistance, please contact us via phone or WhatsApp number [-----------].

According to UAE law, installing a tracking device on someone else's car without their knowledge or consent is considered a violation of privacy and may be treated as a criminal offense.

You have the right to file a complaint with the relevant authorities if you feel your privacy has been violated.

We specialize in such cases and can assist you in taking the appropriate legal steps. Feel free to contact us via WhatsApp for further details and legal consultations.

Wa Alaykum Assalam,

In the United Arab Emirates, the act of secretly installing a tracking device on someone’s property, including a car, without their consent may violate the laws related to privacy and cybercrimes.

Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrimes explicitly addresses such acts.

Article 9 of this law prohibits any form of surveillance or tracking of individuals without their knowledge or legal authorization. Violating this provision may lead to penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Your husband’s actions, as described, appear to cross the boundaries of privacy and could be subject to legal scrutiny if reported.

While marital relationships often involve mutual responsibilities, they do not justify actions that infringe upon personal freedoms or violate the law.

If you wish to take action, you may file a complaint with the police, who will investigate whether his conduct constitutes a legal violation. Alternatively, you may wish to seek mediation or legal counselling to address the broader issue of control in your relationship.

If you need further clarification or assistance, you can reach me via phone or email.

There may be circumstances under which your husband could legally install a tracking device on your car (such as ownership), doing so without your knowledge or consent raises significant legal concerns regarding privacy rights and potential violations of state and federal laws.

All of these actions are against the law and are punishable in accordance with the provisions of the UAE Penal Code.

If you have any other questions, contact us by phone number [-----------] so that we can help you.

Greetings of the day,

1. I understand your concern, and I'm sorry you're experiencing such controlling behavior. In the UAE, privacy is a protected right, and actions that violate it, such as tracking someone without their consent.

2. If you feel your privacy is being violated, you can report the matter to the local police. Bring evidence, such as the tracking device, and explain the situation.

3. It's essential to act cautiously while addressing this issue. If your husband’s behavior escalates or becomes threatening, prioritize your safety and seek help from trusted authorities.

If you need assistance drafting a complaint or understanding your legal options further, feel free to ask.

Best regards,

Sara Al Saedi Advocates & Legal Consultants

Dear Client,

Thanks for your question! I hope you are doing well. I will assist you in this matter.

Your husband's actions, including secretly tracking your car, are illegal in the UAE. Using tracking devices to spy on individuals, even spouses, violates UAE law.

This can result in imprisonment for at least six months and/or fines between Dh150,000 and Dh500,000 under the cybercrime law.

GPS trackers are only legal on registered commercial vehicles in the UAE. Installing them on personal vehicles without permission is prohibited.

Your husband's behavior is a serious invasion of privacy. It's advisable to seek legal counsel to understand your rights and options.

Consider documenting these incidents in case you decide to take legal action or seek protection.

Thanks & Regards,

ABDUL WAHIED