Latest news with #DIFCCourts
Gulf Business
24-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
DIFC Courts see 38% surge in claims valued at Dhs6.8bn in H1 2025
Image: DIFC Courts The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts reported a sharp rise in activity during H1 2025, with a 38 per cent year-on-year increase in total claims and a combined value of Dhs6.8bn ($1.85bn). The A total of 650 claims were filed across the courts' divisions from January through June, up from 470 during the same period last year. The average claim value across all divisions stood at Dhs13.2m, according to figures released by the DIFC Courts. Higher value disputes, more opt-ins The Court of First Instance (CFI) and its specialised units logged 61 claims worth a combined Dhs6.7bn, with an average claim size of Dhs117.7m. Around 38 per cent of these were opt-in cases, meaning parties outside the DIFC's jurisdiction contractually selected the DIFC Courts for resolution — an ongoing trend reflecting the forum's perceived neutrality and enforceability. Chief justice Wayne Martin said the first-half data confirms a 'sustained pattern of growth, particularly in opt-in matters and higher-value claims,' which he credited in part to reforms under a new courts law issued earlier this year. Arbitration and civil claims drive case load The Civil & Commercial Division (CCD) saw an 85 per cent jump in filings, climbing from 33 claims to 61, totalling Dhs2.3bn. The Arbitration Division posted an even steeper year-on-year rise, with 23 claims worth Dhs4.5bn — up 92 per cent compared to H1 2024. Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) activity also spiked, handling 458 cases — a 73 per cent increase — with total value reaching Dhs43.2m and an average claim size of Dhs95,000. These increases were offset somewhat by a dip in enforcement claims, which dropped to 106 cases worth Dhs4.5m, down from 122 cases over the same period last year. Read: Legal reforms add momentum The uptick follows the enactment of Dubai Law No 2 of 2025, which consolidated and expanded the DIFC Courts' jurisdiction, simplifying previous statutes and reinforcing its authority in civil, commercial, and employment matters. The move also clarified its mandate to issue interim measures, enforce arbitral awards, and support mediation. Justice Omar Al Mheiri, diirector of DIFC Courts, said the results reflect 'growing confidence from both businesses and individuals,' adding that the system's adaptability is key to its longevity. 'Our continued growth is a testament to our mission to expand access to justice across core and ancillary services,' he said. Wills and pro bono uptake The Courts' ancillary services also recorded growth. The DIFC Wills Service registered 922 wills — up 14 per cent year-on-year — bringing the total to more than 13,400 since inception. The pro bono programme assisted 524 individuals in H1, with the help of 39 law firms and 51 volunteer lawyers. The Courts continue to see a mix of case types spanning banking and finance, real estate, manufacturing, crypto, and employment disputes. Officials point to the diversity of sectors and claim types as a marker of the court's growing role in Dubai's maturing legal and business environment. Snapshot: Claims H1 2025 CFI + Divisions: 61 claims | Dhs6.7bn total | Average claim: Dhs117.7m Civil and Commercial: 61 claims | Dhs2.3bn | Average claim: Dhs51.3m Arbitration: 23 claims | Dhs4.5bn | Average claim: Dhs42.6m Small Claims Tribunal: 458 claims | Dhs43.2m | Average claim: Dhs95,000 Enforcement: 106 claims | Dhs4.5m | Average claim: Dhs1.5m
Arabian Business
23-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
DIFC Courts claims rise 38% in first half of 2025 as Dubai legal hub strengthens
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts recorded 650 claims across all divisions from January to June 2025, representing a 38 per cent increase compared to 470 claims during the same period in 2024. The total claim value reached AED 13.2 million on average, with the Court of First Instance and its divisions handling 61 claims worth AED 117.7 million each and totalling AED 6.7 billion. Wayne Martin, Chief Justice, DIFC Courts, said: 'The first half of 2025 reflects a sustained pattern of growth, particularly in opt-in matters and higher-value claims. These developments reinforce the DIFC Courts' position as a trusted forum for resolving complex commercial disputes, supported by experienced judges, and international enforceability. The new DIFC Courts Law, introduced in early 2025, represents a forward-looking step by the Government of Dubai allowing the DIFC Courts to further streamline procedures and enhance judicial practice, reinforcing our position as a premier forum for dispute resolution well into the future.' Surge in claims across divisions The Civil & Commercial Division experienced 85 per cent growth year-on-year, rising from 33 to 61 claims with a combined value of AED 2.3 billion. Each claim averaged AED 51.3 million. The Arbitration Division registered 23 claims, marking a 92 per cent increase from the previous year. These cases carried a total value of AED 4.5 billion, with an average claim value of AED 342.6 million. The Small Claims Tribunal processed 458 claims, a 73 per cent rise year-on-year, representing AED 43.2 million in total value and averaging AED 95,000 per claim. Enforcement cases decreased, handling 106 claims worth AED 4.5 million in total, with an average value of AED 1.5 million per case. Parties outside the DIFC jurisdiction increasingly choose the courts through contractual agreements. The Court of First Instance saw 38 per cent of claims through opt-in arrangements, whilst the Small Claims Tribunal recorded 39 per cent and the Arbitration Division 18 per cent. Claims covered banking and finance, retail, manufacturing, cryptocurrency, and real estate sectors. Cases ranged from cross-border disputes to employment contract matters. New law streamlines DIFC legal processes Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Dubai Law No. 2 of 2025 in March. The legislation formalises the DIFC Courts' jurisdiction over civil, commercial, and labour claims whilst consolidating Dubai Law No. 10 of 2004 and DIFC Law No. 12 of 2004 into one statute. The law clarifies jurisdiction over civil, commercial, employment matters, non-Muslim wills, trusts, and enforcement of arbitral awards. It introduces provisions for employment claims, interim measures, and mediation dispute resolution. The DIFC Courts Wills Service registered 922 wills during the first six months of 2025, a 14 per cent increase from 2024. The service issued 27 Probate Orders and has registered over 13,400 wills since inception. The Pro Bono Programme assisted 524 individuals with support from 39 volunteer firms and 51 volunteer lawyers. Launched in 2009 as the first programme of its kind in the Middle East, it provides legal access for those with financial constraints. Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director, DIFC Courts, added: 'This period has seen continued uptake across all our services, from civil and commercial claims to ancillary services. The consistent increase in users choosing to bring their disputes to the DIFC Courts is a strong reflection of the value placed on our legal framework by businesses and individuals alike. Serving as the region's leading common law commercial court for over 20 years, our continued growth is a testament to our mission to adapt, innovate, and expand access to justice through our core and ancillary court service offerings to the public.' The DIFC Courts publish quarterly statistical updates on their website to maintain transparency. The complete H1 2025 report is available at
Zawya
23-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DIFC Courts reports increase in number of claims in H1 2025
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts today reported statistics for the first six months of 2025. Claim numbers grew 38 percent year-on-year as parties sought swift, independent justice in domestic and international commercial and civil disputes. From January-June 2025, 650 claims were filed across all Court divisions, with a total average claim value of AED13.2 million. The main Court of First Instance (CFI) and its specialised divisions recorded 61 claims, with an average claim of AED117.7 million and a total of AED6.7 billion. The steady increase in claims demonstrates the Courts' status as the jurisdiction of choice for delivering efficient and reliable judicial services to both corporate and individual users and underpins Dubai's status as an international business hub. Wayne Martin, Chief Justice at DIFC Courts, said, 'The first half of 2025 reflects a sustained pattern of growth, particularly in opt-in matters and higher-value claims. These developments reinforce the DIFC Courts' position as a trusted forum for resolving complex commercial disputes, supported by experienced judges, and international enforceability." He added that the new DIFC Courts Law, introduced in early 2025, represents a forward-looking step by the Government of Dubai allowing the DIFC Courts to further streamline procedures and enhance judicial practice. Over the first half of 2025, the Civil & Commercial Division (CCD) recorded an 85 percent year-on-year growth in claims (from 33 to 61), with a total claim value of AED2.3 billion. Strong demand for the Courts' Arbitration Division (ARB) continued as 23 claims were registered, an increase of 92 percent year-on-year, with a combined value of AED4.5 billion. The Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) dealt with 458 claims (a 73 percent year-on-year increase), representing an AED43.2 million total claim value and an average claim value of AED95,000. The increases in caseload in the commercial and arbitration divisions and the Small Claims Tribunal were offset to some extent by a decrease in enforcement cases, so that total new cases increased by 38 percent to 650, as compared to 470 in the corresponding period last year. The statistics also highlight strong uptake of 'opt-in' claims, with parties outside the DIFC jurisdiction contractually selecting the DIFC Courts to resolve their disputes. In the Court of First Instance, 38 percent of claims were opt-in; 39 percent in the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT); and 18 percent in the Arbitration Division (ARB). The DIFC Courts Wills Service also recorded increased activity. In the first six months of 2025, 922 Wills were registered - a 14 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024 - and 27 Probate Orders were issued. Since its inception, the service has registered over 13,400 Wills, offering a secure mechanism for non-Muslim residents and investors to plan their estates in the UAE. The Courts' Pro Bono Programme also assisted more than 524 individuals, supported by 39 volunteer firms, and 51 volunteer lawyers. The DIFC Courts' Pro Bono Programme is the first-of-its-kind in the Middle East and was implemented in 2009. Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director, DIFC Courts, said, 'This period has seen continued uptake across all our services, from civil and commercial claims to ancillary services. The consistent increase in users choosing to bring their disputes to the DIFC Courts is a strong reflection of the value placed on our legal framework by businesses and individuals alike. "Serving as the region's leading common law commercial court for over 20 years, our continued growth is a testament to our mission to adapt, innovate, and expand access to justice through our core and ancillary court service offerings to the public.'
Emirates 24/7
23-07-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
DIFC Courts reports increase in number of claims in H1 2025
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts today reported statistics for the first six months of 2025. Claim numbers grew 38 percent year-on-year as parties sought swift, independent justice in domestic and international commercial and civil disputes. From January-June 2025, 650 claims were filed across all Court divisions, with a total average claim value of AED13.2 million. The main Court of First Instance (CFI) and its specialised divisions recorded 61 claims, with an average claim of AED117.7 million and a total of AED6.7 billion. The steady increase in claims demonstrates the Courts' status as the jurisdiction of choice for delivering efficient and reliable judicial services to both corporate and individual users and underpins Dubai's status as an international business hub. Wayne Martin, Chief Justice at DIFC Courts, said, 'The first half of 2025 reflects a sustained pattern of growth, particularly in opt-in matters and higher-value claims. These developments reinforce the DIFC Courts' position as a trusted forum for resolving complex commercial disputes, supported by experienced judges, and international enforceability." He added that the new DIFC Courts Law, introduced in early 2025, represents a forward-looking step by the Government of Dubai allowing the DIFC Courts to further streamline procedures and enhance judicial practice. Over the first half of 2025, the Civil & Commercial Division (CCD) recorded an 85 percent year-on-year growth in claims (from 33 to 61), with a total claim value of AED2.3 billion. Strong demand for the Courts' Arbitration Division (ARB) continued as 23 claims were registered, an increase of 92 percent year-on-year, with a combined value of AED4.5 billion. The Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) dealt with 458 claims (a 73 percent year-on-year increase), representing an AED43.2 million total claim value and an average claim value of AED95,000. The increases in caseload in the commercial and arbitration divisions and the Small Claims Tribunal were offset to some extent by a decrease in enforcement cases, so that total new cases increased by 38 percent to 650, as compared to 470 in the corresponding period last year. The statistics also highlight strong uptake of 'opt-in' claims, with parties outside the DIFC jurisdiction contractually selecting the DIFC Courts to resolve their disputes. In the Court of First Instance, 38 percent of claims were opt-in; 39 percent in the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT); and 18 percent in the Arbitration Division (ARB). The DIFC Courts Wills Service also recorded increased activity. In the first six months of 2025, 922 Wills were registered - a 14 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024 - and 27 Probate Orders were issued. Since its inception, the service has registered over 13,400 Wills, offering a secure mechanism for non-Muslim residents and investors to plan their estates in the UAE. The Courts' Pro Bono Programme also assisted more than 524 individuals, supported by 39 volunteer firms, and 51 volunteer lawyers. The DIFC Courts' Pro Bono Programme is the first-of-its-kind in the Middle East and was implemented in 2009. Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director, DIFC Courts, said, 'This period has seen continued uptake across all our services, from civil and commercial claims to ancillary services. The consistent increase in users choosing to bring their disputes to the DIFC Courts is a strong reflection of the value placed on our legal framework by businesses and individuals alike. "Serving as the region's leading common law commercial court for over 20 years, our continued growth is a testament to our mission to adapt, innovate, and expand access to justice through our core and ancillary court service offerings to the public.'
Zawya
23-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DIFC Courts reports increase in number of claims for first six months of 2025
Total number of claims across all Divisions rose by 38% year-on-year Average claim value across the Court of First Instance (CFI) stood at AED 51.3 million Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts today reported statistics for the first six months of 2025. Claim numbers grew 38% year-on-year as parties sought swift, independent justice in domestic and international commercial and civil disputes. From January – June 2025, 650 claims were filed across all Court divisions, with a total average claim value of AED 13.2 million. The main Court of First Instance (CFI) and its specialised divisions recorded 61 claims, with an average claim of AED 117.7 million and a total of AED 6.7 billion. The steady increase in claims demonstrates the Courts' status as the jurisdiction of choice for delivering efficient and reliable judicial services to both corporate and individual users and underpins Dubai's status as an international business hub. His Excellency Wayne Martin, Chief Justice, DIFC Courts, said: 'The first half of 2025 reflects a sustained pattern of growth, particularly in opt-in matters and higher-value claims. These developments reinforce the DIFC Courts' position as a trusted forum for resolving complex commercial disputes, supported by experienced judges, and international enforceability. The new DIFC Courts Law, introduced in early 2025, represents a forward-looking step by the Government of Dubai allowing the DIFC Courts to further streamline procedures and enhance judicial practice, reinforcing our position as a premier forum for dispute resolution well into the future.' Over the first half of 2025, the Civil & Commercial Division (CCD) recorded an 85% year-on-year growth in claims (from 33 to 61), with a total claim value of AED 2.3 billion. Strong demand for the Courts' Arbitration Division (ARB) continued as 23 claims were registered, an increase of 92% year-on-year, with a combined value of AED 4.5 billion. The Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) dealt with 458 claims (a 73% year-on-year increase), representing an AED 43.2 million total claim value and an average claim value of AED 95,000. The increases in caseload in the commercial and arbitration divisions and the Small Claims Tribunal were offset to some extent by a decrease in enforcement cases, so that total new cases increased by 38% to 650, as compared to 470 in the corresponding period last year. Reflecting the continued public trust in the Courts, submitted claims covered sectors including banking and finance, retail, manufacturing, crypto, and real estate. With internationally recognised and Emirati judges upholding the highest global legal standards, claims ranged from complex cross-border disputes to simple employment contract disputes. The statistics also highlight strong uptake of 'opt-in' claims, with parties outside the DIFC jurisdiction contractually selecting the DIFC Courts to resolve their disputes. In the Court of First Instance, 38% of claims were opt-in; 39% in the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT); and 18% in the Arbitration Division (ARB). Ancillary services The DIFC Courts Wills Service also recorded increased activity. In the first six months of 2025, 922 Wills were registered — a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2024 — and 27Probate Orders were issued. Since its inception, the service has registered over 13,400 Wills, offering a secure mechanism for non-Muslim residents and investors to plan their estates in the UAE. The Courts' Pro Bono Programme also assisted more than 524 individuals, supported by 39 volunteer firms, and 51 volunteer lawyers. The DIFC Courts' Pro Bono Programme is the first-of-its-kind in the Middle East and was implemented in 2009. It provides access to justice for those who are financially in need and who have legal issues that fall within the DIFC Courts' jurisdiction. His Excellency Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director, DIFC Courts, said: 'This period has seen continued uptake across all our services, from civil and commercial claims to ancillary services. The consistent increase in users choosing to bring their disputes to the DIFC Courts is a strong reflection of the value placed on our legal framework by businesses and individuals alike. Serving as the region's leading common law commercial court for over 20 years, our continued growth is a testament to our mission to adapt, innovate, and expand access to justice through our core and ancillary court service offerings to the public. ' Dubai Law No. 2 of 2025 underpins increased operations In March, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued a new law (Law No. (2) of 2025) which strengthened the DIFC Courts by formalising its exclusive jurisdiction to hear and resolve civil, commercial, and labour claims. The new law also consolidates previous laws — Dubai Law No. 10 of 2004 and DIFC Law No. 12 of 2004 — into one statute. This improves transparency and removes outdated or conflicting clauses. It clarifies our jurisdiction over civil, commercial, employment matters, non-Muslim wills, trusts, and enforcement of arbitral awards. The new DIFC Courts Law introduces changes that enhance the jurisdiction and procedural framework, in addition to ensuring that the DIFC continues to be viewed as an arbitration-friendly forum. These changes offer practical benefits for businesses, including the ability to bring employment claims, secure interim measures, and resolve disputes through mediation. Claims summary – January – June 2025 Civil & Commercial Division (CCD): 61 claims | AED 2.3 billion total claim value | Average claim value: AED 51.3 million Arbitration Division (ARB): 23 claims | AED 4.5 billion total claim value | Average claim value: AED 342.6 million Small Claims Tribunal (SCT): 458 claims | AED 43.2 million total claim value | Average claim value: AED 95,000 Enforcement (ENF): 106 claims | AED 4.5 million total claim value | Average claim value: AED 1.5 million Quarterly statistical updates To ensure transparency and ongoing access to data, the DIFC Courts publishes updates on statistics through its official website every quarter. This shows the Courts' commitment to providing timely and relevant information to legal professionals, businesses, and the wider public. The complete report for H1 2025 is available at -End- About the DIFC Courts The UAE's DIFC Courts administers a unique English-language common law system – offering swift, independent justice to settle local and international commercial or civil disputes. The Courts, based in Dubai, provide certainty through transparent, enforceable judgments from internationally recognised judges, who adhere to the highest global legal standards. The DIFC Courts is independent from, but complementary to, the UAE's Arabic-language civil law system – offering a choice that strengthens both processes while ensuring public access to world-class justice. In October 2011, a decree of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, opened the DIFC Courts' jurisdiction to businesses from across the GCC region and beyond to provide the international business community with access to one of the most advanced commercial courts in the world. The DIFC Courts was established under laws enacted by the late HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai in September 2004. The Courts' community-focused approach encourages early settlement, while its successful track record supports Dubai's growing status as an international business hub. In line with HH Sheikh Mohammed's vision, the DIFC Courts serves to develop the UAE national workforce and enhance the competitiveness of Emirati advocates. The DIFC Courts is spearheading training programmes predominantly aimed at domestic Emirati lawyers, which offer knowledge of, and qualifications in, the English-language common law system. For media enquiries please contact: communications@
