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The United Arab Emirates, of which Abu Dhabi is the capital, strictly enforce laws concerning narcotics, including cannabis. The UAE maintains a zero tolerance policy on sale, use, or possession of all illegal substances, notwithstanding cannabis, whether in medicinal or recreational form. These laws go beyond drug trafficking, with serious penalties for personal use. Even minute traces in your blood or lower quantities can lead to a four-year prison sentence followed by deportation for foreign nationals.
Legal advice is crucial if you find yourself involved in a situation relating to cannabis in Abu Dhabi. Given the severity of penalties, whether you face charges or need guidance on the legal implications of involvement with cannabis, a lawyer with expertise in this area is indispensable. Legal help is essential in circumstances like defending against charges of personal use, possession, or trafficking; understanding the implications of seizure of illegal substances; legalising medicinal cannabis use; and learning about the legal status of cannabis-related products.
Article 42 of the Federal Law No. 14 of 1995 criminalises the cultivation, production, delivery, sale, buying, possession or taking of narcotic substances including cannabis, except in circumstances defined by law. The punishments vary based on the crime, but for personal use or possession, a minimum of four years imprisonment is stipulated. Cultivation for trafficking purposes can be penalised by death. Furthermore, in cases such as driving under the influence of cannabis, even with a valid prescription from a country where its use is legal, could lead you to face legal consequences.
No, all forms of cannabis, including medicinal, are illegal in Abu Dhabi.
No, even if you have a valid prescription from another country, you cannot possess or use cannabis in the UAE.
CBD-based products, which do not contain the psychoactive compound THC, are not illegal in the UAE unless they contain traces of THC, which is prohibited except for a few specific exceptions.
Yes, while both are criminal offenses, the penalties for trafficking are much more severe than those for personal use or possession.
If you are caught using or possessing cannabis, seek advice from a local lawyer immediately, and inform your consulate or embassy.
If you're charged with a cannabis-related offense, you could face severe penalties including imprisonment, heavy fines, or even death for trafficking.
Yes. This can often lead to unintended legal consequences.
Refusing a drug test can be considered an admission of guilt under UAE law.
Yes. If the substance is detected in your blood or urine, it can lead to prosecution regardless of where you consumed it.
No, importing cannabis, even if it was legally obtained elsewhere, is a serious crime in the UAE.
You may want to consult the UAE Government portal and the website of your country's embassy or consulate for more information or seek advice from a lawyer experienced in UAE drug laws. Non-government organizations like UAE Human Rights also provide resources on the legal situation and rights of the accused.
Should you require legal assistance with cannabis in Abu Dhabi, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer who specializes in drug laws in the UAE immediately. It is also worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the legislation pertaining to cannabis in the UAE to avoid unintentionally infringing the law.
