Mediation And Conciliation Integrated Framework Unveiled By UAE Federal Judicial Council In 2025

The Federal Judiciary Council has introduced a comprehensive set of measures to regulate mediation and conciliation in civil and commercial disputes. Eight interlinked decisions implement Federal Decree-Law No. (40) of 2023 and seek to modernise alternative justice, embed digital processes, and maintain strong legal safeguards while providing faster, more flexible dispute resolution options across the UAE.

This integrated framework begins with Decision No. (18) of 2025, which sets detailed procedures for both judicial and consensual mediation and conciliation. It regulates how courts refer cases, how mediators are selected, and how fees and expenses are determined. The decision also covers confidentiality rules, hearing management, settlement drafting, enforceability, challenges to settlements, and the creation of a dedicated online platform.

Under Decision No. (90) of 2025, specialised mediation and conciliation centres are being established in Ajman, Al Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Dibba Al Fujairah. These centres are intended to provide structured alternatives to courtroom litigation, offering parties neutral venues to settle disputes. The decision defines each centre’s jurisdiction, internal oversight, institutional affiliation, and operational responsibilities in clear terms.

Decision No. (19) of 2025 complements this institutional expansion by creating the Committee for the Admission of Conciliators and Mediators within the Judicial Inspection Department. The Committee manages registration, renewal, and removal of mediators, nominates conciliators, and reviews complaints and grievances. It allows appeals within 30 days, requires decisions within 15 days, and maintains official registers to support monitoring and quality control.

Decision No. (20) of 2025 focuses on conciliators’ professional status and obligations. It defines appointment conditions, mandatory training, and the specific duties and powers held by conciliators. The decision also clarifies when and how conciliators may be recused, dismissed, or replaced, and organises technical supervision and disciplinary actions to maintain performance standards within the conciliation process.

Ministerial Decision No. (711) of 2025 sets the disciplinary framework for conciliators in more detail. It forms a specialised committee to investigate alleged violations and outlines its mandate and procedures. Sanctions may include warnings, formal notices, salary deductions, or temporary suspension. In serious cases, the committee can recommend dismissal, aiming to preserve professional discipline and public confidence in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

Decision No. (92) of 2025 turns to mediators’ affairs, specifying how mediators are registered, renewed, or removed from practice. It sets required training periods and insurance obligations, and lists situations of ineligibility. The decision further describes mediators’ powers, circumstances for recusal or stepping aside, and key prohibitions, ensuring that mediators operate within clear professional and ethical boundaries across civil and commercial disputes.

Digital mediation and conciliation for civil and commercial disputes

Decision No. (710) of 2025 supports the UAE’s digital transformation policies by regulating remote mediation and conciliation sessions. Attendance through videoconferencing is recognised as valid, provided identities are verified via UAE PASS or Emirates Identity Card. The decision bans recording or photographing sessions, permits remote witness hearings and interpreter participation, allows electronic notifications by agreement, and requires use of secure, approved systems.

Decision No. (91) of 2025 adopts the Code of Professional Conduct for mediators and conciliators. It sets principles of integrity, transparency, and impartiality, and enforces strict confidentiality protections. Media engagement that risks disclosure is prohibited, and conciliators are barred from advertising or promoting their own services. Mediators’ fees must be agreed in writing, on fair terms, and cannot depend on case outcomes, with violations subject to disciplinary measures.

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In the context of the issued decisions, H.E. Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Federal Judicial Council and Minister of Justice, stated: "These decisions represent a qualitative leap in the development of alternative dispute resolution, in line with the State’s strategic direction toward a digital, flexible, and proactive judicial system."

"These steps contribute to expediting the resolution of disputes, reducing costs, and enhancing confidence in the judicial system, while granting settlement agreements enforceable force equivalent to court orders. They also position the State at the forefront of systems that adopt global best practices through innovative approaches, and support an open government that promotes transparency and keeps pace with digital transformation," he added.

He further noted that the adoption of mediation, conciliation, and commercial arbitration as part of judicial practice reflects a comprehensive approach that enhances investment attractiveness, owing to the speed of procedures and the efficiency of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, which have become an essential part of the judicial system and a widely adopted mode of practice, reflecting the flexibility and efficiency of the business environment in the UAE. He also commended the efforts of the working teams that developed and implemented this framework within a record timeframe.

These regulations show the Federal Judicial Council’s commitment to a modern, efficient, and proactive judicial system. They support user confidence, strengthen access to justice, and rely on digital and alternative pathways to deliver sustainable outcomes. The framework aligns with the "We the UAE 2031" Vision and Sustainable Development Goal 16, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a competitive model in judicial development and global legal transformation.

With inputs from WAM