How can I legally recover money from an Egyptian living in Dubai? (Cross-border debt with written admissions)
Hello … I’m looking for practical legal advice from anyone familiar with UAE civil law or cross-border debt recovery.
I live outside the UAE. The person who owes me money is an Egyptian citizen living and working in Dubai and also in Cairo.
Over a period of time, I transferred a substantial amount of money to him. Some of it was personal loans, and some was for expenses and a business venture that he agreed to repay.
For several years he repeatedly acknowledged the debt and assured me that he would repay me once he was financially able. I have extensive evidence, including:
Bank transfer records.
WhatsApp messages where he acknowledges that he owes me money.
Messages where he apologises for delays and promises repayment.
Evidence of purchases made for his apartment, vehicle, business expenses, and other costs that he agreed would be repaid.
My repeated requests for bank statements and supporting invoices, which were never provided.
He has now completely changed his position and is denying responsibility, despite previously admitting the debt in writing.
I’m not interested in revenge, public shaming, or anything unlawful. I simply want to recover what I’m legally owed through the proper channels.
My questions are:
Would this be handled under UAE law because he lives in Dubai?
Are WhatsApp admissions and written promises to repay generally accepted as evidence in UAE civil courts?
Is this something that can be pursued through the Dubai Courts, or is another authority more appropriate?
Are there reputable UAE lawyers or debt recovery firms that deal with international private debt?
Can legal action be started from overseas, or would I need to travel to Dubai?
If judgment is obtained in the UAE, what enforcement options are available if he refuses to pay?
Has anyone here successfully recovered a private debt from someone living in Dubai? What was the process like, and what would you recommend?
I’m looking for genuine legal guidance and would really appreciate hearing from anyone with experience in UAE civil litigation or cross-border debt recovery.
Thank you.