DIFC Courts

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 16 June 2009: The DIFC Courts, the Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) independent, common law judicial system, and the Dubai Courts, have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding to formalise their ongoing cooperation. The memorandum reinforces the close ties between the two Courts and their ongoing commitment to collaboration and knowledge sharing in order to deliver world-class justice in Dubai.

The MoU provides for regular and open discussion between the Courts. It also supports the sharing of best practices, as well as joint development efforts focused on subjects such as improving efficiencies through the use of information technology, jurisdiction, joint awareness and education initiatives, and the nurturing of judicial talent.

The DIFC Courts and Dubai Courts share key strategic objectives, including: the desire to increase the community’s understanding of and trust in Dubai’s judicial system; clarifying and developing judicial processes within their respective jurisdictions; providing first class service to litigants and court users; and strengthening judicial cooperation at local, federal, regional and international levels.

Sir Anthony Evans, Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts said: “This is a significant occasion, and a proud moment, for the DIFC Courts. The MoU which we have signed today demonstrates that the two Courts, the Dubai Courts and ourselves, share the same vision and enjoy a close relationship with each other. The vision is that we should offer world class systems of justice, meaning that they are reliable, accessible, efficient and fair with an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.”

Director General, Dr. Ahmed Saeed Bin Hazeem, of the Dubai Courts added: “We are proud to continue to strengthen our relationship with the DIFC Courts. This harmonization between the Dubai and DIFC Courts is undoubtedly of benefit to Dubai and the UAE as a whole, drawing on our shared experience. We look forward to further cooperation in the future as this is not the first and will not be the last agreement between us.


Click here to view the 2009 Memorandum of Understanding Between Dubai Courts And DIFC Courts.