DIFC Courts sees rise in claims and settlements

dubai — The DIFC Courts said on Monday that claims at its main Court of First Instance (CFI) increased to 54, up 17 per cent in 2017, with the settlement rate increasing from 83 per cent to 88 per cent.

The DIFC Courts, which administer an English-language common law system, said enforcement claims rose to Dh3.4 billion, from Dh2.75 billion in 2016 — a 26 per cent year-on-year increase.

For the full year 2017, the DIFC Courts recorded a volume of 520 cases across all divisions.

“Our success as a jurisdiction of choice for businesses and individuals is due to the high quality of our bench and the value of service through judgments, both of which contribute to local and global trust and confidence,” said DIFC Courts Chief Justice Michael Hwang.

The value of Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) claims and counterclaims increased 75 per cent in 2017, to Dh36.2 million, from Dh20.7 million in 2016. The settlement rate for the SCT also rose to 85 per cent, a 10 per cent increase from 2016. Amna Al Owais,

Our success as a jurisdiction of choice for businesses and individuals is due to the high quality of our bench and the value of service through judgments, both of which contribute to local and global trust and confidence

Michael Hwang, Chief Justice, DIFC Courts

chief executive and registrar, DIFC Courts, said in a move designed to help people and businesses resolve disputes more quickly, in 2017 the DIFC Courts’ SCT also introduced a mechanism to allow claimants the option to use direct and instant messaging to give defendants notice as part of an expanded range of e-services.

“In 2017, DIFC Courts continued to strengthen relationships with local institutions across Dubai and the UAE, as well as forge more agreements with the world’s most respected civil and common law jurisdictions,” said Al Owais.

— business@khlaeejtimes.com