LegalAffairs Department of Dubai
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As Part of Its Efforts to Promote Alternative Methods for Dispute Resolution The Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department Achieves a 50.5% Amicable Settlements Rate for Government Disputes in H1 2026

​The Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department announced that during the first half of 2026, it successfully settled 50.5% of total claims brought against government entities in the Emirate of Dubai through amicable settlement procedures prior to litigation. This milestone reflects growing public confidence in the amicable settlement framework and highlights the effective cooperation of government entities. It also reinforces the Department's core mandate to receive claims against local government entities and resolve them amicably in a manner that safeguards the rights of all parties.

In its latest report, the Department confirmed that all mediation sessions between disputing parties were conducted virtually via video conferencing technology, eliminating the need for physical attendance at its headquarters. During the same period, the Department handled 2,064 inquiries regarding amicable settlement services, including 1,655 inquiries received through its digital and phone channels. This approach saves time, effort, and costs for all parties, while supporting Dubai Government's directives toward comprehensive digital transformation.

Governance of Procedures

The report highlighted the Department's commitment to the highest standards of governance in service delivery. The customer journey begins with submitting a claim digitally, via the Department's website, email, or smart application, along with supporting documentation. The Department then reviews the submission to verify compliance with eligibility criteria before formally notifying the relevant government entity and inviting both parties to participate in settlement proceedings.

The report further noted that upon notifying the entity of the claim, the matter moves to mediation between the customer and representatives of the government entity. Facilitated by the Department's legal advisors, these sessions aim to align perspectives and reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Proceedings conclude either with a formally executed settlement agreement or with the issuance of a certificate confirming that an amicable settlement could not be reached. In the latter case, the customer may choose to pursue judicial recourse. Operating with complete transparency and impartiality, these procedures reinforce public trust in the Government and the Emirate's legal and judicial framework, while furthering policy support for alternative dispute resolution.

Raising Awareness

As part of its efforts to foster a culture of alternative dispute resolution, the Department conducted a training programme for legal professionals across various Government entities. The training covered the provisions governing amicable settlement under Law No. (16) of 2025 Concerning Government Claims in the Emirate of Dubai, as well as the pivotal role of government entities in ensuring the success of settlement efforts. Key topics included submitting required responses and documentation within specified deadlines and taking all necessary steps to expedite suitable resolutions in accordance with applicable legislation, underscoring how these measures save significant time and costs compared to court litigation.

Trust and Transparency

H.E. Dr. Lowai Mohamed Belhoul, Director General of the Department, said: "The results achieved in the first half of this year reflect growing public confidence of service users in the amicable settlement framework adopted by the Government of Dubai as part of its commitment to alternative dispute resolution and international best practices. Every dispute resolved amicably saves vital time, effort, and expense for service users and government entities alike, while fostering a sustainable relationship built on trust and fairness between the Government of Dubai and the community".

H.E. Dr. Belhoul emphasized that the Department will continue delivering awareness programmes to embed the culture of amicable settlement as the first option before litigation. This initiative aligns directly with the Department's Strategic Plan 2026–2028, supporting Dubai's global competitiveness and further enhancing its investment climate.


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