Lost and Found Items in the UAE: Legal
Responsibilities and Rights for Expats
Losing or finding property in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) carries important legal responsibilities. For residents and expatriates alike, understanding what to do when something valuable goes missing—or when you find someone else’s property is critical to avoid legal complications.
At Khalid Al Zarooni Advocates & Legal Consultants, we guide clients through the legal and procedural requirements related to lost and found items in the UAE. This article explains the legal , penalties, and rights that every expatriate and resident should be aware of.
1. Legal Responsibilities Under UAE Law
a. Obligation to Report or Return
Under Article 454 of the UAE Penal Code (Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021), anyone who finds lost property such as money, jewellery, phones, documents, or other valuables — is legally obliged to report it to the nearest police station or submit it through official platforms like the Dubai Police Lost and Found Service.
Failure to report or return a found item can be treated as misappropriation or theft of lost property, punishable by imprisonment or fines under UAE law.
b. No Right to Use or Keep the Item
Finding lost property does not grant ownership or the right to use it. Using, selling, or concealing another person’s property is considered a criminal offence, carrying penalties that may include fines or imprisonment, depending on the value and circumstances.
c. Duty to Safeguard Until Handover
If immediate reporting is not possible, the finder must safeguard the item carefully until it can be handed over to the police or rightful owner. Any negligence or tampering may be viewed as a violation of the duty of care and could lead to liability.
2. Legal Rights of the Finder
a. Right to Recognition or Reward
Once the rightful owner reclaims their property, the finder may be recognized or rewarded, either voluntarily by the owner or by the relevant authority. For example, Dubai Police often acknowledges individuals who display honesty and integrity by returning lost items.
b. Right to Retain (Exceptional Cases)
If the property remains unclaimed after an official holding period (generally several months), the competent authority may decide ownership. In rare cases, the finder may be granted ownership rights, but only after public notification and completion of legal procedures.
3. What To Do If You Lose Something in the UAE
Step 1: Retrace and Recall
Think of the last location where you had the item — a taxi, a shopping mall, a restaurant, or an airport. Contact the relevant establishment immediately.
Airports/Airlines: Report to the Lost & Found department of the airline or airport.
Hotels/Malls: Contact the security or guest services desk.
Public Transport (Dubai RTA): Call 800 9090 or file a report via the RTA app/website.
Step 2: File a Police Report
If you have lost a passport, Emirates ID, driving licence, or valuable item, you must file a Lost Item Report with the police.
How to file:
Dubai Police: Call 901 or use the Dubai Police App/Website.
Abu Dhabi Police: File through TAMM Portal or call 800 3333.
Sharjah Police: Visit the nearest police station or call 901.
You will receive an official reference number, which is vital for follow-up, document replacement, and any legal claim.
Step 3: Keep Documentation
Record every detail:
Report number and date
Contact persons spoken to
Reference numbers from institutions (airport, mall, etc.)
These details protect you legally and simplify future claims.
4. Practical Example for Expats in Dubai
If you, as an expatriate resident, find a wallet or mobile phone in a public area:
Report it at the nearest police station, or
Submit it via the Dubai Police Smart App → “Found Items” Service.
The police will record the report, attempt to locate the owner, and issue you a reference number confirming that you have complied with UAE law.
5. Penalties for Misuse or Non Compliance
Failure to comply with lost property laws in the UAE is taken seriously.
Penalties may include:
Imprisonment of up to two years, or
A fine not less than AED 20,000, depending on the circumstances.
These penalties underscore the UAE’s strict stance on protecting ownership rights and promoting integrity among residents and expatriates.
6. Professional Legal Support for Lost and Found Matters
If your lost or found property involves important documents, financial loss, or potential misuse, it is advisable to seek legal guidance.
At Khalid Al Zarooni Advocates & Legal Consultants, our legal team assists clients in:
Filing and tracking police reports
Communicating with local authorities and embassies
Handling document recovery and misuse complaints
Providing legal representation in property-related disputes
Conclusion
For expatriates and residents in the UAE, returning or reporting lost property is not merely an ethical duty it is a legal obligation. Acting promptly and through official channels protects you from liability and upholds the UAE’s legal principles of honesty and integrity.
If you have lost valuable items or need legal assistance with recovery or documentation, our expert lawyers are ready to assist you with professional and compliant solutions.
📞 Call or WhatsApp: +971 56 889 7000
📍 Offices: Dubai & Sharjah
🖥️ Visit: www.conceptadvocates.com
📧 Email: conceptadvocates@gmail.com
