His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Judicial Council, has launched the Dubai Judicial Authority’s 2025 annual report, detailing significant progress in judicial efficiency, governance, and the integration of advanced technology across the emirate’s legal system. The report underscores Dubai’s commitment to building a globally competitive judicial ecosystem powered by digital innovation.
Quick Facts
- Total case settlement value reached AED 10.2 billion
- Dubai Courts handled 1.7 million smart requests
- Public Prosecution processed 173,013 blockchain requests
A Digital-First Judiciary
The report highlights an accelerated push towards digital transformation within Dubai’s judicial sector. In 2025, Dubai Courts completed 1.7 million smart requests and conducted 24,507 remote hearings, demonstrating a large-scale shift away from traditional processes.
The Public Prosecution also saw extensive tech adoption, processing 23,438 smart bail applications and managing 173,013 requests through blockchain technology. These figures point to a foundational change in how legal services are delivered and managed in the emirate.
“Guided by the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum… the emirate continues to foster an advanced judicial ecosystem, rooted in justice, operational efficiency and the rule of law,” said Sheikh Maktoum. He emphasized that the report reflects Dubai’s commitment to transparency and governance.
By the Numbers: Performance and Efficiency
The 2025 data reveals solid performance across key metrics. The Public Prosecution registered 66,933 new criminal cases and processed 59,421, achieving an investigation and indictment accuracy rate of 94.2%.
Dubai Courts recorded a ruling accuracy of 86.5% at the Courts of First Instance and 87.1% at the Court of Appeal. The average time to issue a ruling at the first instance was 114 days, with an overall case settlement rate of 90%. The total value of settlements and requests before the courts amounted to AED 10.2 billion, with AED 3.68 billion paid through enforcement proceedings.
His Excellency Dr. Abdullah Saif Al Sabousi, Secretary General of the Dubai Judicial Council, noted that the report acts as a strategic tool for monitoring performance and reinforcing judicial governance.
Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Talent
The report also documents significant developments in legislation and human capital. In 2025, 43 legislative enactments were issued to regulate judicial operations, alongside 66 resolutions from the Judicial Council.
The number of Judicial Authority members grew to 522 after 86 new appointments, with female representation rising to 6.5%. To support this growth, 92 training programs were conducted, providing 2,601 hours of training to 376 participants. Key strategic achievements included the establishment of the Dubai Center for Judicial Expertise and the launch of a digital pathway for criminal cases.
About the Dubai Judicial Council
The Dubai Judicial Council is a governing body responsible for overseeing and strengthening the efficiency, performance, and governance of Dubai’s judicial sector. Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the council works to enhance justice, equality, and the rule of law through the development of a modern and efficient judicial system aligned with Dubai’s long-term strategic ambitions.
Source: Fast Company Middle East
