Questions & Answers
A friend borrowed money and won't pay back. What to do?
Dear Sir/Madam,
I lent Dh35,000 to a friend in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic when he was under financial stress.
Now, when I ask him to repay the loan, he either does not pick up my calls or tells me that he is still not in a position to return the money. I also have a husband and the money is important to me.
What can I do to get my money back?
I have WhatsApp conversations and some remittance receipts from when he asked me for the money.
I paid him in cash. Can I file a police complaint?
Is there any other way to get my money back? I don't want to get him in trouble, but I also really need him to return my money. What should I do?
Dear Questioner,
1) It should be clear that the amount you gave to that person was a loan, not an aid or donation.
2) You must have proof that he received the money from you.
3) The police have nothing to do with interpersonal loans.
4) Your only way out is to file a civil case against him.
Dear Questioner,
There are two options that can be done for you:
(i) Lawyers to serve a legal notice and follow up with the other party consistently to settle the matter; or
(ii) To consult a lawyer and file a case in the court of the relevant jurisdiction.
