My family is holding my passport and hitting me. Can I report domestic violence and get my passport back?

1. On the Passport

A passport is an official personal document, and no individual, including family members, has the legal right to withhold it without lawful grounds.

UAE law guarantees every citizen the right to possess and retain their passport.

Any forced withholding of a passport constitutes a violation of personal rights and entitles the holder to file a complaint with the police or the Public Prosecution to reclaim it.

2. On Physical Violence

Any physical assault or abuse by family members falls under criminal liability pursuant to the UAE Penal Code.

The victim has the right to file a criminal complaint with the police, which will trigger an investigation by the Public Prosecution and referral of the perpetrators to trial.

Additionally, the victim may claim civil compensation for damages suffered.

3. Possible Legal Actions

- Filing an official complaint with the competent police authority regarding the withholding of the passport.

- Filing a separate complaint for any physical assault or abuse.

- Submitting a request for protection before the Public Prosecution or the Personal Status Court if family violence persists.

As a 24-year-old Emirati woman, you have the right to retrieve your passport held by your family.

You can go to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, or the police to report the confiscation of your passport and request assistance.

Your rights in the event of physical assault include filing a lawsuit against the aggressors and obtaining legal protection from the police.

You can contact me on the phone for assistance.

Dear Client,

Greetings from Al Nassar Advocates!

As a 24-year-old UAE citizen, you have the legal right to hold your own passport, and no one can lawfully withhold it.

Physical abuse by family members is a criminal offense under UAE law, and you are entitled to protection and legal remedies.

We can assist you to:

- Recover your passport or obtain a replacement.

- File a police complaint regarding any abuse.

- Seek protection orders and legal remedies.

Please share any evidence (messages, photos, witness details) and schedule a visit to our office so we can guide you through the legal process and next steps.

Best regards,

Adv. Rihan Raheem