UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Issues Decree-Law Amending Federal Judicial Authority Law

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has enacted a Federal Decree-Law that modifies certain aspects of the Federal Judicial Authority Law. A significant change is the elevation of both the President of the Federal Supreme Court and the UAE Attorney-General to the rank of Minister, along with all associated allowances and benefits as per current federal legislation.

The amendments also address the jurisdiction of the Federal Attorney-General. According to the new law, this role will oversee crimes impacting Union interests and other offences assigned to the Federal Judiciary under national laws. The geographical jurisdiction for other crimes will align with the Federal Judiciary's territorial scope.

The appointment process for presidents of Courts of First Instance and Courts of Appeal will be determined by a decision from the Chairman of the Federal Judiciary. This decision is based on recommendations from the Head of the Judicial Inspection Department and requires approval from the Judiciary. Similarly, appointments for Public Prosecutors and higher positions will be made by the Federal Attorney General, pending Judiciary approval.

Furthermore, changes have been made regarding how workplace locations and jurisdictional divisions for Public Prosecution members are set. These will now be determined by the Federal Attorney-General. Additionally, a technical office comprising several Public Prosecution members will operate across all Emirates in the UAE.

The new Decree-Law specifies that grades, categories, salaries, allowances, bonuses, and other benefits for remaining members of the Federal Judiciary will be established through a Federal Decree. Rewards for these members are also included in this determination.

Moreover, amendments have been introduced concerning jurisdictional divisions within Federal Prosecution Offices. The Attorney-General is responsible for establishing these divisions, subject to approval by the Federal Judicial Council.

This comprehensive update aims to enhance judicial operations within UAE's legal framework while ensuring alignment with federal standards. By conferring ministerial rank on key judicial figures and refining jurisdictional roles, these changes seek to bolster efficiency and clarity in legal proceedings across Emirates.

With inputs from WAM