The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts reported a notable increase in case filings and service uptake during the first half of 2024. As Dubai’s premier forum for English language dispute resolution, the DIFC Courts also saw increased demand for ancillary services such as the tejouri digital vault, driven by the Dubai Government’s paperless initiative.
The first half of 2024 saw the total value of cases across all divisions reach AED 1.05 billion, with 480 cases filed. The Court of First Instance (CFI) recorded 57 cases valued at AED 1.02 billion, averaging AED 39.3 million per case.
His Excellency Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director of DIFC Courts, commented on the results. “Following a record-breaking year in 2023, we have maintained strong uptake of our core and ancillary services in the first half of 2024. Our focus remains on developing innovative, efficient, and cost-effective mechanisms to assist court users while maintaining judicial excellence.”
The UAE’s recent top ten ranking in global competitiveness reflects the nation’s dynamic economy and effective dispute resolution mechanisms, supporting its competitive segments. As the DIFC celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024, it remains committed to fostering a stable environment for businesses and individuals.
Small Claims Tribunal Performance and Digital Strategy
The Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) processed 265 claims worth AED 27.2 million in the first half of 2024. The average claim value was AED 109,000. These claims primarily involved disputes over contracts, employment, and property.
The DIFC Courts continue to advance their digital strategy. They issued 100% of orders and judgments electronically. In the first half of 2024, over 913 orders and 85 judgments were issued. Most hearings were conducted remotely.
The Wills Service, established in partnership with the Dubai Government in 2015, registered 810 Wills in the first six months of 2024, marking a 6% increase from the same period in 2023. The service has registered over 11,000 Wills since its inception.
Tejouri, the digital vault launched in 2022, saw a 20% increase in registered vaults in early 2024. It offers a secure platform for storing life administration files. The system uses advanced security measures and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to ensure data safety and transmission to designated stakeholders.
In February 2024, Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, awarded the Green Certificate to the DIFC Courts for adopting Moro Hub’s Green Cloud, recognizing their commitment to sustainability.
New Decree and International Cooperation
In April 2024, a new decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, aimed at resolving jurisdictional conflicts between DIFC Courts and other Dubai judicial bodies, is set to bring further clarity with new rules and procedures.
In May 2024, the DIFC Courts signed a cooperation agreement with The Law Society of Hong Kong. This was part of a delegation visit that included Hong Kong’s Secretary for Justice and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. The agreement aims to enhance investor confidence and facilitate access to justice between two leading financial centers.
