While the UAE has strict laws in place that make it a crime for anyone (even an employer) to discriminate against you based on your religion, caste, creed, sex, race, colour, or ethnic origin, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. The UAE laws in place aim to create a society where tolerance and open-mindedness are the norms, protecting people no matter their background or beliefs. However, if you feel like anyone has discriminated against you for the above reasons, here is how you can file a crime report.
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What The Law Covers
Thie law not only criminalises discrimination but also any actions that promote religious hatred or insult religions. Whether through speech, writing, books, pamphlets, or online media, any form of expression that stirs up religious hatred or insults is punishable. Additionally, calling other religious groups or individuals “infidels” or “unbelievers” is strictly prohibited.
In 2023, the law was further strengthened to include penalties for:
- Attacking religious beliefs, rituals, or sacred elements.
- Damaging, distorting, desecrating, or insulting holy books.
- Showing disrespect towards prophets, places of worship, cemeteries, graves, and related spaces.
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It’s clear that the law aims to prevent any actions or expressions that could lead to discrimination or disturb public peace.
Penalties For Violating The Law
The consequences of breaking this law are severe. Jail terms can range from 6 months to over 10 years, and fines can be as high as AED 2 million. The law also defines extremism as any action driven by ideologies that disrupt public order, show contempt for religions, or incite hate speech.
Reporting Discrimination: Know Your Options
If you ever face discrimination based on religion, caste, creed, race, colour, or ethnic origin, you have several ways to report it.
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- UAE Police Online Channels: Each emirate has its own reporting service:
- Abu Dhabi: Use the Aman service by calling 8002626 or sending an SMS to 8002828.
- Dubai: Contact Al Ameen service at 8004888 (inside the UAE) or +9718004888 (outside the UAE).
- Sharjah: Use the Najeed service by calling 800151 or sending an SMS to 7999.
- Judicial Authorities: You can also file a lawsuit through the judicial system.
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): If you work in the private sector, you can report workplace discrimination through the ministry’s online platforms. Make sure to gather solid evidence like witness statements, employment contracts, pay slips, bank statements, emails, and other relevant documents to strengthen your case.
- Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR): Government employees can report grievances through FAHR’s online platforms.
- Human Rights Issues: Report online via the Human Rights Office at the Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi or the Community Development Authority (CDA). You can contact CDA toll-free at 8002121 or email them at human_rights@cda.gov.ae.
- Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence: If you have issues related to discrimination, you can contact them via info@tolerance.gov.ae.
- National Human Rights Institution: For human rights complaints, visit UAE National Human Rights Institution.
Stand Up For Your Rights
It’s crucial to know your rights and understand the correct channels to seek help and justice if you ever face discrimination. The UAE’s legal framework is in place to protect you and ensure that tolerance and respect prevail.
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