Someone is holding my passport until I repay a loan with 15% interest. What can I do?

Dear Inquirer,

We are pleased to serve you and address your inquiries.

Lending activity in the country is limited to banks and companies licensed to do so.

If anything else is required, don’t hesitate to contact us via email or call our offices in Dubai or Sharjah.

Jasim Al Haddad Advocates & Legal Consultants

Dear Questioner,

No one has the right to keep your passport; it is illegal. You have the right to have it returned legally.

For more information, you can visit our office.

Hello,

The loan agreement is invalid as it is illegal for an individual to lend money with interest in the UAE.

This is a criminal offense punishable under Article 459 of the UAE Penal Code, which states:

"Any natural person who habitually lends money with interest shall be punished by temporary imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years and a fine of not less than 100,000 dirhams."

Regarding your passport, it is also illegal for anyone to retain another person's passport. You can submit a "Request for an Order on Petition" to compel this person to return your passport. The police will enforce this order.

If you need further assistance or have more questions, please feel free to contact me.

There is no need to pay interest to him anymore because you have already paid him what you owe.

We will let you know the posssibilities to overcome this situation.

Kindly share your WhatsApp number to proceed.