His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (9) of 2025, amending certain provisions of Law No. (18) of 2021 governing reconciliation procedures in Dubai. The amendments replace ten articles of the original law as part of ongoing efforts to enhance Dubai’s legislative framework, ensuring efficiency and strengthening the positive impact of dispute resolution on society. Key Provisions:

Disputes Eligible for Reconciliation: Include cases designated by the President of Dubai Courts, personal status disputes, disputes mutually agreed for referral to the Alternative Dispute Resolution Center, and cases referred by the court based on party agreements.

Exclusions: Interim orders, urgent cases, matters of inheritance and wills, disputes beyond the jurisdiction of Dubai Courts, and cases prohibited by law from reconciliation.

Procedures: Disputes registered in Dubai Courts’ electronic system are referred to the Center or the Family Reform and Guidance Committee under judicial supervision. Experts may be engaged for technical advice, and reconciliation agreements, once signed and approved, become enforceable legal documents. Additional Measures: Articles detail roles of judicial authorities, approval processes for reconciliation agreements, dispute registration fees, and procedures for government and authorized entities.

Objectives of the Law:

• Promote a culture of amicable dispute resolution.
• Encourage alternative methods for resolving disputes between individuals and businesses.
• Preserve contractual relationships and commercial projects.
• Expedite dispute resolution and simplify legal procedures.
• Ensure confidentiality in reconciliation processes.

In conclusion, the issuance of Law No. (9) of 2025 underscores Dubai’s commitment to promoting a culture of amicable dispute resolution and modernizing its legal framework. By clearly defining the types of disputes eligible for reconciliation, streamlining procedures, and ensuring enforceability of agreements, the law aims to enhance efficiency, preserve contractual and personal relationships, and provide a transparent, confidential, and effective mechanism for resolving conflicts. This step reflects Dubai’s continuous efforts to strengthen the rule of law and support social and commercial harmony across the emirate.