Does the UAE apply the dual criminality requirement strictly in extradition proceedings?

Yes, dual criminality is a mandatory requirement under UAE extradition law. The alleged offence must constitute a crime punishable by at least one year of imprisonment under both UAE law and the requesting state’s law. UAE courts interpret this requirement substantively rather than technically — the conduct itself must be criminal in both jurisdictions, even if legal classifications differ. This creates strong defence opportunities in cases involving offences that do not exist under UAE law, such as certain tax crimes, political offences, or conduct that is legal in the UAE but criminalised elsewhere.