The UAE has two judicial systems that work side by side. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah run their own local courts, while the courts of the other emirates belong to the federal judiciary, whose highest court is the Federal Supreme Court in Abu Dhabi.
The levels of court
Most disputes start before a Court of First Instance. A party who disagrees with the judgment can usually appeal to the Court of Appeal, and from there, in many cases, to the Court of Cassation — or the Federal Supreme Court in the federal system — which reviews how the law was applied.
- Family and personal status courts: marriage, divorce, custody, maintenance and inheritance.
- Courts of First Instance: civil, commercial, labour, real estate and criminal cases.
- Courts of Appeal: a full review of the facts and the law.
- Court of Cassation and Federal Supreme Court: the final word on points of law.
The DIFC and ADGM Courts
The Dubai International Financial Centre and Abu Dhabi Global Market have their own English-language, common-law courts. Parties can agree to use them, and they hear many commercial and banking disputes.
Why it matters for you
Choosing the right court, meeting deadlines for appeals and preparing the file properly at first instance often decide the outcome. If you have received a claim or are thinking of bringing one, speak to a lawyer early.
