A Legal Insight on Decision No. (4) of 2025

The Rules Just Changed, and So Did the Future of Dispute Resolution in Dubai.

On March 3, 2025, Dubai took a strategic leap forward in redefining justice, and hardly anyone is talking about it.

Decision No. (4) of 2025, issued by the Chief Justice of Dubai Courts and officially published on March 26, replaced the previous Decision No. (8) of 2022. But this wasn’t just an administrative update. It was a recalibration of what justice means in the context of efficiency, protection, and fairness.

What changed? Almost everything.

Let’s break it down, because whether you’re a lawyer, policymaker, investor, or a citizen who believes in a just society, this affects you.

1. A More Defined, Specialized Jurisdiction

The Centre for Amicable Settlement of Disputes can now only handle clearly defined types of disputes. Inheritance-related property cases?

No longer under its scope.

Why?

Because of their complexity and the need for Sharia-compliant distribution, something best left to the courts.

2. Only Legally Approved Settlements Count

No more informal handshake deals. No vague understandings. Now, only officially documented reconciliation agreements, as defined under Federal Decree-Law No. (40) of 2023, are recognized. This means stronger protection and accountability for all parties.

3. Stricter Rules for Expert Appointments

Want an expert appointed? Now you must prove:

  • The case is under Dubai Court’s jurisdiction.
  • It’s not pending in court or previously ruled upon.

This shuts the door on tactical misuse and ensures expert opinions are used where they’re truly needed.

4. Expanded Jurisdiction for the Vulnerable

In a move that reflects genuine social responsibility, the Centre now has jurisdiction over:

  • Disputes involving UAE nationals above 60, if claims are under AED 1 million
  • Disputes involving People of Determination
  • Cases involving recipients of social benefits under Law No. (7) of 2012

This isn’t just law. This is empathy in action.

5. No More Dispute Referrals by Agreement Alone

Under the old system, if two parties agreed to refer a dispute to the Centre, they could.

Now? Not anymore. The Centre will only accept disputes that meet strict jurisdictional criteria.

This limits flexibility, but it also tightens focus, eliminates abuse, and channels cases to the correct path: court, arbitration, or official settlement.

So What’s the Bigger Picture?

This decision isn’t just a procedural adjustment. It’s a reassertion of judicial strategy. It clarifies the boundaries. Protects the vulnerable. Reduces exploitation. Speeds up resolution.

It also sends a message: Dubai is continuously upgrading its legal framework to reflect global best practices and local realities.

Conclusion:

For law firms, mediators, corporates, and the judiciary, this is more than news. It’s a mandate to adapt.

For the public, it’s a reassurance that justice is evolving — intelligently, inclusively, and with foresight.

And for us? It’s a reminder that good governance starts where the fine print begins.