The Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department released its 2025 Annual Report on June 4, 2026, detailing a year of record-breaking mediation efforts, a 92% favorable ruling rate in government litigation, and a sharp increase in contract work valued at more than AED54 billion. The report, titled “Competitive Performance in Legal Work,” captures how the department is streamlining dispute resolution, bolstering legal representation, and expanding its professional training programs to support Dubai’s rapid economic growth.
Mediation and dispute resolution hits new highs
In 2025, the department conducted 684 mediation sessions aimed at settling complaints lodged against government entities. This marks a significant push toward amicable resolutions, reducing the burden on courts. Additionally, the department received 497 enforceable judgments and writs of execution—with check-related enforcement claims accounting for more than 32% of that total—underscoring the continuing importance of commercial dispute mechanisms in a fast‑growing economy.
Strong court record and soaring contract values
On the litigation front, the department secured a 92% favorable ruling rate in lawsuits involving government entities. It also handled 291 requests for legal support, including legislative assistance, advisory opinions, and formal legal guidance. Perhaps most striking is the department’s contract work: it drafted and reviewed 689 contracts and agreements in 2025, a year‑over‑year increase of over 5%, with a cumulative value exceeding AED54 billion. According to the report, this growth reflects “robust trust and collaborative spirit” between the department and government partners.
Investing in mediator training
The annual report spotlights the Mediation Training Project for civil and commercial disputes. In 2025, the department ran four new cycles of its Accredited Mediators Programme, certified by the International Institute for the Resolution of Civil and Commercial Disputes. A total of 82 participants completed the training—a 9.3% increase from 2024—with government employees making up more than 80% of the cohort. The program aims to build a pipeline of skilled mediators to support Dubai’s expanding commercial ecosystem.
A diverse, international legal workforce
By the end of 2025, legal consultancy professionals in Dubai represented 91 Arab and foreign nationalities, and 84 branches of international law firms were licensed and registered with the department. This diversity mirrors Dubai’s status as a global business hub and reinforces the department’s commitment to providing high‑quality legal services that meet the needs of a competitive investment environment.
Looking ahead: AI and a new strategic cycle
His Excellency Dr. Lowai Mohamed Belhoul, Director General of the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department, said the report marks the successful conclusion of the department’s 2023–2025 strategic cycle and the start of a “transformative new phase” focused on international best practices and rigorous benchmarking. “We seek to leverage artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to advance our strategic priorities,” Dr. Belhoul stated, emphasizing that innovation will enhance service quality and efficiency while building on the department’s legacy of excellence.
Broader impact
The department’s 2025 achievements are more than statistical milestones—they reflect Dubai’s broader ambition to strengthen the rule of law, attract foreign investment, and position itself as a leading regional and global legal hub. By investing in mediation, training, and technology, the department aims to deliver “significant added value to customers, partners, and the wider community” while reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a destination for business and legal talent. The next strategic cycle, now underway, will likely see even greater integration of digital tools and data‑driven governance.