What are the rules for debt collection in Dubai?
Dubai has specific laws governing debt collection, which are designed to protect both creditors and debtors. The UAE Central Bank has issued regulations that debt collectors must adhere to when attempting to collect debts. These regulations state that debt collectors must:
A. Treat debtors with respect and fairness
Debt collectors in Dubai are required to treat debtors with respect and fairness. This means that they cannot engage in any conduct that is likely to embarrass, harass, or intimidate the debtor. Debt collectors must be professional and courteous in all their dealings with debtors.
B. Provide debtors with clear and accurate information about their debts
Debt collectors in Dubai are required to provide debtors with clear and accurate information about their debts. This includes information about the amount owed, the creditor, and the terms of the debt. Debt collectors must also provide debtors with a clear explanation of their rights and options when it comes to resolving the debt.
C. Avoid using deceptive or misleading tactics to collect debts
Debt collectors in Dubai are prohibited from using deceptive or misleading tactics to collect debts. This includes making false statements about the debt, misrepresenting the amount owed, or threatening legal action that cannot be taken. Debt collectors must be truthful and transparent in all their dealings with debtors.
Can debt collectors in Dubai harass me for payment?
Debt collectors in Dubai are not allowed to use illegal or harassing tactics to collect debts. Harassment can take many forms, including:
A. Repeatedly calling or texting the debtor
Debt collectors are not allowed to repeatedly call or text the debtor in an attempt to collect the debt. If debt collectors are calling or texting you multiple times a day, this could be considered harassment.
B. Threatening legal action that cannot be taken
Debt collectors in Dubai are not allowed to threaten legal action that cannot be taken. For example, debt collectors cannot threaten to have you arrested for failing to pay a debt.
C. Using abusive language or making false accusations
Debt collectors in Dubai are not allowed to use abusive language or make false accusations in an attempt to collect debts. If a debt collector is using abusive language or making false accusations, this could be considered harassment.
D. Visiting the debtor’s workplace or home without permission
Debt collectors in Dubai are not allowed to visit the debtor’s workplace or home without permission. If a debt collector shows up at your workplace or home without your permission, this could be considered harassment.
E. Publicly declaring the debtor’s debt to others
Debt collectors in Dubai are not allowed to publicly disclose the debtor’s debt to others. This includes sharing information about the debt on social media or with the debtor’s employer. If a debt collector publicly discloses your debt, this could be considered harassment.
If you feel that a debt collector is harassing you, it is important to know that you have legal protections. Under UAE law, debt collectors who engage in harassment can be fined and may face criminal charges.
What should I do if I am being harassed by a debt collector in Dubai?
If you are being harassed by a debt collector in Dubai, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself.
A. Document all communication with the debt collector
First, you should document all communication with the debt collector, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Keep a record of the date, time, and content of each communication.
B. Inform the debt collector of your rights
Next, you should inform the debt collector that you are aware of your rights under UAE law and that you do not consent to any further harassment. You may also want to consider hiring a lawyer who specializes in debt collection to help you negotiate with the debt collector.
C. File a complaint with the Consumer Protection Department
If the debt collector continues to harass you despite your efforts to stop them, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Department. The department will investigate the matter and may take legal action against the debt collector if necessary.
D. File a civil lawsuit
In addition, you can file a civil lawsuit against the debt collector for any damages you have suffered as a result of their harassment.
It is important to remember that debt collectors in Dubai do have the right to contact you to collect a debt. However, they must do so lawfully and respectfully. If you are unsure about your rights or are concerned about the behaviour of a debt collector, seek legal advice.
Conclusion
Debt collection in Dubai is governed by a set of laws and regulations designed to protect both creditors and debtors. Can debt collectors in Dubai harass me for payment: no debt collectors are not allowed to use illegal or harassing tactics to collect debts, and consumers have legal protections against such behaviour. If you are being harassed by a debt collector in Dubai, there are steps you can take to protect yourself, including documenting all communication, informing the debt collector of your rights, and filing a complaint with the Consumer Protection Department. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to dealing with debt collectors, so be sure to educate yourself on your rights and options if you are in debt in Dubai.
