Law Enforcement in the United Arab Emirates: Federal and Emirate Structure

The UAE operates a dual-layered law enforcement system combining federal agencies with emirate-level police forces.

Federal Agencies (Ministry of Interior - MOI)

• Criminal Investigation Department (CID) – major crimes: homicide, robbery, narcotics.
• Preventive Security Services (PSS) – crime prevention, public order.
• Traffic and Patrols Directorate (TPD) – traffic enforcement, highway patrol.
• Emergency and Public Safety Department (EPSD) – firefighting, ambulance, rescue.

Other Federal Bodies

• Federal National Security Agency (NSA) – counterterrorism, espionage, cybercrime.
• State Security Agency (SSA) – VIP protection, political security.
• Coast Guard – maritime law enforcement, search & rescue.
• Border Patrol – land border security, anti-smuggling.

Emirate Police Forces

Each of the seven emirates maintains its own police force, headed by a Commander-in-Chief reporting to the Ruler. The two largest:

• Abu Dhabi Police – largest force, covers the capital emirate.
• Dubai Police – second largest, known for tech innovation (AI, smart stations, supercar fleet).

Other emirate forces: Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah. All coordinate closely with federal agencies through the MOI.