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DIFC Courts - Al Kabban & Associates

A New Chapter in Dubai’s Legal Services

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts has announced the launch of two landmark services, the Mediation Service Centre and a Notary Service, following the issuance of Dubai Law No. (2) of 2025 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This step further enhances Dubai’s reputation as a forward-thinking legal hub, ensuring businesses and residents alike have access to innovative, cost-effective solutions.

The initiative was formalized under a resolution by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the DIFC, providing the operational framework for these services.

Mediation Service Centre: A Modern Approach to Dispute Resolution

The Mediation Service Centre gives parties the chance to resolve disputes amicably, outside traditional litigation. Users will have the flexibility to:

  • Select mediators from the DIFC Courts’ official roster.
  • Agree fees and terms in advance.
  • Choose between online mediation via the upgraded AI-enabled Court Management System or in-person sessions at DIFC Courts.

This expansion offers an attractive alternative to lengthy proceedings, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to efficiency and accessibility.

DIFC Notary Service: Blockchain Backed Integrity

The newly launched Notary Service authorises DIFC Courts’ Notary Officers to:

  • Administer oaths, affidavits, affirmations, and declarations.
  • Certify and attest true copies of documents.
  • Notarize English language documents, a first-of-its-kind offering in the UAE.

The service provides three formats: automated self-service, live virtual notarisation, and in person appointments. Each notarised document will be issued with a cryptographically secured stamp and seal, with verification recorded on Hedera Blockchain using distributed ledger technology.

This blockchain integration ensures integrity, transparency, and compliance with global data standards, while protecting user privacy.

Leadership Commentary

His Excellency Wayne Martin, Chief Justice of DIFC Courts, highlighted the role of these services in broadening access to justice:

“Both the Mediation Service Centre and the Notary Service will widen the suite of services, broadening access to justice, as well as providing greater flexibility for businesses and individuals.”

Justice Omar Al Mheiri, Director of DIFC Courts, added that the services will reinforce investor and public trust:

“Our objective at the Courts is to advance transparent, efficient, and future-ready judicial and legal solutions to meet the evolving needs of the region’s economy.”

Why This Matters for Businesses and Residents

The introduction of these services is more than procedural reform, it is a strategic move to align with Dubai’s economic and governance goals. Businesses gain a reliable, faster alternative to dispute resolution, while residents benefit from accessible and secure notarisation services.

For investors, the use of blockchain technology adds credibility and confidence, strengthening Dubai’s position as a global leader in digital transformation of the legal sector.

Expert Insight

At Al Kabban & Associates, we recognise the importance of these new services in shaping Dubai’s legal landscape. Whether it’s navigating mediation to preserve business relationships, or ensuring notarised documents meet international compliance standards, our experienced legal team is ready to guide clients through every step.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at +971 4 453 9090 or visit www.alkabban.com

You can also follow us on social media for more updates on everything law related in the UAE: @Alkabban_Law

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