DIFC Courts and Sharjah Judicial Department Strengthen Judicial Cooperation to Boost Business Confidence in the UAE
Agreement Signed to Enhance Legal Framework
In a significant move to bolster the legal landscape of the United Arab Emirates, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts and the Sharjah Judicial Department have formalized an agreement aimed at enhancing cooperation between two of the nation’s foremost judicial entities. The agreement was executed by His Excellency Judge Mohammed Al Kaabi, Head of the Sharjah Judicial Department, and His Excellency Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director of the DIFC Courts. This event took place in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Judicial Council of Sharjah, at the University of Sharjah.
Objectives of the Agreement
The newly established framework under this agreement is designed to foster sustained collaboration in areas of mutual interest. Key focuses include jurisdiction, service delivery, and the enforcement of judgments. This initiative aims to provide enhanced legal certainty and clarity for businesses, investors, and court users throughout the UAE. Additionally, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) outlines provisions for consultation and the exchange of information, further aligning the strategic goals of both institutions. This partnership is poised to support the UAE’s broader objectives of attracting investment and improving the ease of doing business.
Statements from Judicial Leaders
Justice Omar Al Mheiri emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating that businesses are more likely to invest in environments where there is confidence in contract enforcement and efficient dispute resolution. He noted that the collaboration will create clearer pathways for navigating the UAE’s legal system, thereby enhancing the overall judicial experience for users. The partnership aims to contribute to a seamless judicial environment across the UAE.
Strengthening Economic Growth
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to fortifying the legal and judicial infrastructure essential for economic growth in the UAE. By improving cooperation on jurisdiction and the enforcement of judgments, the partnership aims to create a more interconnected judicial ecosystem. This initiative reinforces the UAE’s status as a competitive hub for investment, trade, and commerce.
Broader Engagement Initiatives
This agreement is part of the DIFC Courts’ broader strategy to engage with judicial and governmental bodies both regionally and internationally. The partnership aims to promote knowledge exchange, support the development of the legal profession, and improve access to justice. The MoU encourages open discussions on the legal and judicial systems, the regulation of legal practitioners, and the cultivation of judicial talent. Furthermore, both institutions will facilitate seminars, workshops, and training courses, identifying opportunities for judicial training both domestically and internationally.
Attendees at the Signing Ceremony
The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Essa Kazim, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre; Justice Ali Al Madhani, Deputy Chief Justice; Amna Al Owais, Deputy Director; Reem Al Shihhe, Chief Operating Officer; and Ahmed Al Kamali, Senior Manager, Government & International Relations. The Sharjah Judicial Department was represented by Dr. Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar, Chairman of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; Judge Ahmed Abdullah Al Mulla, President of the Court of Cassation; Dr. Salama Rashid Al Ketbi, Head of the Judicial Inspection Department; Judge Dr. Saeed Ali Al Naqbi, President of the Court of Appeal; and Sheikh Faisal bin Ali Al Mualla, Secretary General of the Judicial Council.
About the DIFC Courts
The DIFC Courts operate as an independent English common law jurisdiction and serve as a crucial pillar of Dubai’s economic growth strategy. They actively support the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Digital Strategy, aligning with the long-term vision of the DIFC as a global financial hub. The courts allow any two parties worldwide to select them as the forum for their commercial disputes, requiring only a simple clause in their contract without necessitating a UAE connection.
Operating at 99 percent digital efficiency, the DIFC Courts provide swift, transparent, and enforceable proceedings overseen by internationally recognized judges under English common law principles. The DIFC Courts have initiated a five-year Growth Strategy (2026–2030) aimed at further solidifying their position as a global leader in commercial justice, introducing advanced digital capabilities into the justice system. Established in 2004, the courts’ jurisdiction was expanded in 2011 by a decree from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, allowing businesses worldwide to utilize their services.
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Published on 2026-06-19 15:09:00 • By the Editorial Desk
