Latest news with #judicialservices
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai Courts opens first overseas hub in London offering services for investors
To strengthen international investor confidence and provide global access to its judicial services, the Dubai Courts have begun offering services at the newly launched Dubai Hub London, in the UK. This is the first time Dubai Courts has operated from an overseas location, to provide world-class judicial services to global investors, entrepreneurs, and businesses looking to establish or expand in Dubai. The launch is part of a broader initiative led by Dubai Chambers, which unveiled Dubai Hub London as its first international service centre. The hub offers integrated support from key Dubai government entities, helping investors deal with legal, economic, and administrative processes under one roof. 'This is a major step toward making Dubai more accessible to international investors,' said Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers. 'The launch reflects our leadership's vision to position Dubai as a global business capital and underscores our ongoing efforts to support investors abroad.' A one-stop gateway to Dubai Dubai Hub London will initially offer services from the following entities: Dubai Courts: Contract attestation, document translation, signature verification, certificate preparation, and declaration registration. Dubai Land Department: Property valuation, data modification, and map issuance. Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism: Trade name reservations, business licence issuance, renewals, and amendments. General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs: Administrative and residency-related services. Additionally, the hub will provide real estate services in collaboration with major Dubai property developers, offering investors direct access to Dubai's dynamic property market. Integrated services from multiple government entities include: Notary public Smart services Legal notices Submission of applications Attendance of hearings Personal status services Attestation of contracts and meeting minutes Attestation of powers of attorney and declarations Case registration and enquiries Legal translation services Attestation of church contracts and wills of non-Muslims Dubai Hub London aims to strengthen ties between Dubai and the UK and create new opportunities for investment. London was selected for the first hub due to its global financial status and access to a broad investor base seeking to tap into Dubai's growing market. Dubai's flexible regulatory framework, advanced infrastructure, and strategic global location have positioned it as a top investment destination. The emirate retained its number one global ranking for foreign direct investment attraction for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, according to the Financial Times' fDi Markets.
Zawya
7 days ago
- 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
7 days ago
- 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@
Khaleej Times
21-07-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi introduces digital currency payments for court fees
Abu Dhabi residents can now pay court-related fees in digital currency as the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) becomes the first government entity in the Middle East to officially accept the AE Coin for judicial and legal service fees. This comes under a strategic partnership agreement signed with local financial institution Al Maryah Bank. With this partnership now in effect, users can pay for a wide range of judicial services using AE Coin — a stablecoin regulated by the UAE Central Bank — via the AEC Wallet. This solution offers a secure, fully digital, and rapid alternative to traditional payment methods. The implementation of AE Coin in judicial payments sets a regional precedent for integrating digital currencies into government services. Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, stated that the agreement forms part of the department's broader development strategy. Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Al Maryah Bank, said 'It's not merely a technological step; it's about delivering advanced, secure financial experiences that reflect the UAE's values and future vision.' Ramez Rafiq, General Manager of IED Stablecoin — the firm behind AE Coin — said, 'AE Coin was developed to be a secure, efficient, and regulatory-compliant digital payment solution tailored for the UAE. Its adoption by such a prominent government entity marks a pivotal moment for us and the region's evolving digital finance landscape'.
