In a landmark ruling that highlights the UAE’s zero-tolerance policy toward fraud and counterfeit luxury goods, the Dubai Civil Court has ordered a woman to return Dhs700,000 to an Arab national. The judgment comes after the woman was found guilty of selling a counterfeit watch, falsely marketed as an original Patek Philippe, to the unsuspecting victim.
At **Business Promotion24**, we stay at the forefront of the latest legal and business developments in the region. This case serves as a stern reminder to both consumers and business owners about the severe legal consequences of fraudulent transactions in Dubai.
### The Details of the Dhs700,000 Luxury Watch Fraud
The case began when a man filed a formal report against the woman, accusing her of deception. He had purchased what he believed was a genuine Patek Philippe watch for the substantial sum of Dhs700,000. Upon discovering the timepiece was a counterfeit, he sought legal recourse to recover his investment.
The Dubai Misdemeanour Court initially heard the criminal aspect of the case. In March 2025, the court fined the woman Dhs10,000, ordered the confiscation of the counterfeit watch, and directed her to return the full amount of Dhs700,000 to the plaintiff.
### A Final and Conclusive Judgment
Unsatisfied with the ruling, the defendant took the case through the entire UAE judicial hierarchy. She first appealed the decision, but the Court of Appeal upheld the original verdict. Seeking a final reprieve, she escalated the matter to the Court of Cassation, the highest court in the land.
The Court of Cassation rejected her appeal, rendering the criminal judgment final and conclusive. This finality was crucial for the subsequent civil proceedings, as it established the criminal act of seizing money through fraudulent methods.
### Civil Liability and Legal Interest
Following the finality of the criminal case, the Civil Court addressed the financial damages. The court affirmed that the criminal conviction proved the appellee used fraudulent methods to deceive the plaintiff. Because this crime caused the victim significant financial loss, the court established the defendant’s civil liability.
In addition to the Dhs700,000 refund, the court ordered the woman to pay:
* **Legal interest at a rate of 5% per annum** from the date of the civil judgment until full payment is made.
* All associated legal fees and costs.
* Attorney fees.
### Protecting the Marketplace in Dubai
This ruling reinforces Dubai’s status as a secure environment for luxury trade and investment. The court’s decision to include 5% annual interest ensures that the victim is compensated for the time his funds were withheld.
For businesses and individuals navigating the high-end market, **Business Promotion24** emphasizes the importance of due diligence. This case highlights that the Dubai legal system provides robust protection against “fraudulent methods” and ensures that those who deceive others face both criminal and civil repercussions.
Whether you are an investor or a business professional, staying informed via **Business Promotion24** ensures you understand the legal landscape governing commerce in the UAE. This ruling stands as a victory for consumer rights and a warning to those attempting to circulate counterfeit goods in the market.
