Civil Law in the UAE — Expert Advocacy
UAE civil law governs private rights and obligations, including contracts, debt recovery, compensation claims and property-related civil disputes. Federal Decree-Law No. 25 of 2025 Promulgating the Civil Transactions Law came into force on 1 June 2026 and repealed Federal Law No. 5 of 1985. Civil court proceedings are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2022 Promulgating the Civil Procedure Code.
Civil Law Services We Provide
- Contract drafting, review, performance and contract disputes
- Debt recovery, precautionary measures and enforcement of judgments
- Property ownership, boundary and other property-related civil disputes
- Personal injury and compensation claims
- Defamation and reputation claims
- Partnership dissolution and business disputes
- Asset freezing orders and precautionary attachments
- Succession and estate matters for non-Muslim expatriates
- Appeals before the Courts of Appeal and, where available, the Court of Cassation
UAE Civil Court Proceedings
We assist with civil disputes in Dubai and across the UAE, from assessing jurisdiction and preparing a claim through service, evidence, hearings, appeals and enforcement. Court level and available appeal routes depend on the nature and value of the claim and the applicable procedural rules. The DIFC Courts and ADGM Courts are separate common-law jurisdictions whose jurisdiction depends on the circumstances, including any valid jurisdiction agreement.
How We Help You
Our civil advocates assess the facts, documents and available remedies; prepare claims and legal submissions; and represent clients during civil court proceedings. Evidence is handled under Federal Decree-Law No. 35 of 2022 Promulgating the Law of Evidence in Civil and Commercial Transactions, including rules relevant to documentary, electronic and expert evidence. Where a negotiated settlement better serves your interests, we pursue that route efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of civil disputes can you assist with in the UAE?
We assist with a broad range of UAE civil disputes, including contract disputes, debt recovery, compensation claims, property-related disputes, partnership matters, precautionary measures, appeals and enforcement of judgments.
Can you assist with contract disputes and unpaid debts?
Yes. We can review the contract and supporting evidence, assess notices and payment obligations, advise on settlement options, and pursue or defend a civil claim and subsequent enforcement where appropriate.
How are civil claims filed in Dubai and the UAE?
The process depends on the court and the nature, value and jurisdiction of the claim. It generally involves identifying the competent court, preparing and registering the claim with supporting documents, serving the other party, exchanging submissions and evidence, and attending hearings before judgment. Applicable pre-filing or case-management requirements must also be checked for the particular dispute.
Can you assist with enforcement of a civil judgment?
Yes. Once a judgment is enforceable, we can advise on opening an execution file and seeking lawful enforcement measures against available assets. Timing and available measures depend on the judgment, any appeal or stay, and the Civil Procedure Code.
Contact Our Civil Law Team
Contact AddressAE for legal advice on a civil dispute in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE. We will assess your matter, explain the likely process and available options, and provide a clear fee proposal.