Questions & Answers
Bank loans and penalty decided in the criminal case
I took a loan of around AED 350,000 in Sept or Oct 2016 (24 out of 48 instalments have been paid and the outstanding amount is AED 248,585).
Last year in Aug 2017, I was made redundant from my job. The gratuity which was transferred to the bank was not released to me. That amount took care of my instalments till Sept. 2018.
The recovery person called me for the Oct. instalment but I told him I do not have a job or money to pay him. I read in the news that since last year jail term has been abolished for expatriates.
I need to know if the bank files a case against me how much do I need to pay as a fine and what is the worst the bank can do about it. I had a previous loan with the same bank and then I topped it up.
Can you tell me the fines for both Dubai & Abu Dhabi as I am not sure which region they will file the case? The bank is Dubai based but I got the loan in Abu Dhabi.

Dear Questioner,
Please note that for more than AED 200,000/- there would be a jail term in criminal cases and as you know a civil case can be filed against you to recover the amount.
You may request the bank to give a new settlement plan in a way you can afford.
Please write to me if you need any further clarification.