UAE Updates Civil Procedures Code With New Rules on Inheritance Disputes and Expert Reports
December 17, 2025 Dubai
UAE updates Civil Procedures Code: New rules on inheritance disputes, expert reports
The UAE has amended its Civil Procedures Code to introduce clearer rules for handling inheritance disputes and regulating expert reports, aiming to enhance transparency, reduce delays, and strengthen judicial accuracy.
The UAE has introduced important amendments to its Civil Procedures Code, focusing on inheritance disputes and the use of expert reports in legal proceedings. These updates aim to streamline court procedures, reduce ambiguity, and ensure faster and more accurate dispute resolution across the judicial system.
Under the revised provisions, inheritance disputes will now follow more structured procedures, allowing courts to handle succession matters with greater clarity and consistency. The amendments provide clearer guidance on jurisdiction, documentation requirements, and the role of courts in resolving disputes among heirs, particularly in complex family and cross border cases.
The updated code also introduces stricter regulations regarding expert reports. Courts will have enhanced authority to assess the credibility, methodology, and relevance of expert opinions presented during litigation. Experts are now required to follow defined standards, timelines, and reporting formats, helping reduce procedural delays and conflicting assessments.
Overall, these amendments reflect the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its legal framework, improving judicial efficiency, and aligning court procedures with international best practices. The changes are expected to benefit litigants by ensuring fairer outcomes, quicker resolutions, and greater confidence in the judicial process.
1. Introduction of Inheritance Courts
One of the most notable changes allows for the establishment of dedicated inheritance courts through a decision by the President of the Federal Judiciary Council or the head of the local judicial authority — without requiring the agreement of all parties. Previously, inheritance disputes often relied on general civil courts or required mutual consent among litigants for specialised handling, which could delay proceedings and complicate outcomes. Khaleej Times
This reform is intended to expedite the resolution of inheritance matters, which are often time-sensitive and emotionally charged, and to bring more consistency and legal certainty to how estates and succession cases are handled across the federation. It also reflects the UAE’s recognition of the importance of clear and efficient legal frameworks in matters that impact families and financial distributions after death. Gulf News
These changes resonate with broader trends in the UAE judiciary, such as the creation of specialised courts (e.g., for family law or commercial disputes), designed to ensure subject-matter expertise and faster adjudication. Khaleej Times
2. Enhanced Role of Expert Reports
Another critical component of the update is the reinforcement of the role of technical experts in civil proceedings. Under the revised code, courts now have expanded authority to:
Engage both local and international experts to prepare or review expert reports.
Discuss reports directly with experts, allowing judges to clarify, supplement, or correct technical findings before relying on them.
Task experts with addressing deficiencies or errors in their reports, enhancing accuracy and reliability.
Previously, expert evidence could be restricted or less scrutinised, sometimes leading to challenges or appeals based on disputed technical findings. The new framework strengthens judicial oversight, reducing ambiguities and improving the factual foundation of civil judgments. Khaleej Times
This enhanced use of expert testimony is expected to benefit complex cases — including commercial disputes, property valuation, financial accounting, construction defects, and more — ensuring that judicial decisions rest on thorough and defensible technical analysis. Gulf News
3. Stricter Appeal Requirements
The amendments also introduce tighter procedural controls for filing appeals. Under the updated code, an appellant must now include in their appeal brief:
A clear statement of the judgment being appealed.
The date of that judgment.
Grounds for appeal.
Specific requests made on appeal.
Failure to comply with these requirements renders an appeal inadmissible, closing loopholes that previously allowed parties to outline grounds only at the first hearing. This encourages more meticulous preparation of appellate arguments and reinforces respect for procedural deadlines. Khaleej Times
4. Specialised Civil and Commercial Courts
In addition to inheritance courts, the revised code supports the creation of specialised courts to hear designated civil or commercial cases. These tribunals can be formed upon the request or agreement of the parties involved or by judicial authority directive. Their purpose is to improve dispute management through focused expertise and tailored procedures. Khaleej Times
5. Alignment with Modern Judicial Standards
Overall, these updates reflect the UAE’s commitment to aligning its judicial processes with international best practices. By emphasising specialization, expert evidence quality, and procedural rigor, the UAE seeks to:
Boost judicial efficiency and predictability.
Reduce case backlogs.
Minimise appeals based on technical or procedural flaws.
Improve confidence among residents, investors, and international businesses using the UAE legal system.
Dubai: Woman Jailed, Faces Deportation for Dh3 Million Crypto Wallet Swap Theft
A Dubai court sentenced a woman to jail and deportation after convicting her of stealing over Dh3 million through a crypto wallet swap fraud.
Philippines announces free train rides on December 30
The Philippines is celebrating by offering free train rides on December 30 for all passengers nationwide.
Over 1 Hour of Fireworks: Sheikh Zayed Festival’s Spectacular NYE Celebration
Experience over one hour of dazzling fireworks at the Sheikh Zayed Festival as organizers prepare an unforgettable New Year’s Eve show blending tradition, innovation, and spectacular visuals.
Ideal Web Infotech Delivers Measurable SEO Growth for GP Production, Achieves Top 10 Google Rankings
Ideal Web Infotech has successfully delivered measurable SEO results for GP Production, helping the brand secure Top 10 Google rankings for 25 competitive keywords. The strategic SEO campaign has significantly improved GP Production’s online visibility, organic traffic, and business inquiries in a competitive digital services market.
Dubai Studio City to Host Middle East Car & Bike Week 2026
Dubai Studio City is set to become the automotive hub of the region as it hosts Middle East Car & Bike Week 2026, a mega event celebrating supercars, custom bikes, electric vehicles, motorsport culture, and automotive innovation.
Winter City at Expo brings festive cheer to Dubai this Christmas
Expo City Dubai has transformed into a festive Winter City, offering lights, snowfall, markets, performances, and family-friendly holiday attractions throughout the Christmas season.
Remit or hold? Indian rupee, Pakistani rupee, Philippine peso stay weak in UAE
The Indian rupee, Pakistani rupee, and Philippine peso continue to hover near multi-year lows against the UAE dirham, offering expats a strong window to remit money home—if they plan wisely.
New UAE highway: All we know about the mega plan to reduce traffic
The UAE has launched a Dh170 billion transport plan to expand highways, upgrade federal roads, and introduce new mobility projects by 2030, tackling rising congestion as vehicle numbers grow by over 8% annually.
How to replace a lost Emirates ID in the UAE
Lost your Emirates ID? Learn how to quickly replace it online using the UAEICP app — including steps, documents, fees, and delivery process.
Morning rush: Heavy traffic causes delays in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Severe congestion slows traffic across Dubai and Abu Dhabi during Monday’s morning rush, with key routes like Sheikh Zayed and E311 seeing long delays.
Elon Musk’s Dubai Loop set to launch in 2026, here’s everything you need to know
Dubai is gearing up to launch Elon Musk’s Dubai Loop in 2026 — a revolutionary high-speed underground transit system by The Boring Company. Promising rapid, zero-emission travel, the project marks a new era in urban mobility for the Middle East.
Philippines to accept Google Pay & Apple Pay via Aqwire — a game changer for OFWs
Aqwire becomes the first Philippine platform to enable Google Pay and Apple Pay for cross-border payments, revolutionizing how OFWs in the UAE send money and settle bills back home.
Dubai Safari park tickets, prices and packages for 2025 season
Dubai Safari Park has reopened for its 2025 season, offering new ticket packages, VIP tours, immersive wildlife encounters, and educational experiences across six themed zones.
Big Ticket Abu Dhabi: Win Dh25 million jackpot, gold bars, dream car
This month’s Big Ticket Abu Dhabi promotion offers a Dh25 million grand prize, weekly gold giveaways, cash contests, and dream cars like the Nissan Patrol and Maserati Grecale.
Adnoc’s XRG acquires 11.7% stake in US Rio Grande LNG project
Adnoc subsidiary XRG has acquired a strategic 11.7% equity stake in Phase 1 of the Rio Grande LNG project in Texas, marking its first US gas infrastructure investment and reinforcing the UAE’s growing role in global energy supply.
UAE researchers harness AI to assess cloud seedability in real time
UAE researchers, in partnership with global institutions, are developing an AI-powered system to assess cloud seedability in real time, advancing water security through innovation.
Gold slips from record highs but UAE buyers hope for bigger price drop
Gold rates in UAE slip by Dh3 after record highs. 22K at Dh416, 24K at Dh449.5. Buyers await further correction, while long-term trend stays bullish.
AGT 2025 winner: Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez wins $1 million prize
Filipino-American singer Jessica Sanchez, nine months pregnant, wins America’s Got Talent Season 20 with a stunning finale performance, marking a triumphant comeback nearly two decades after her first audition.
Al Mehairi makes UAE proud at FEI Young Riders and Juniors World Championship
Rashed Khamis Al Mehairi clinched the title at the FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Riders & Juniors 2025 in Romania, securing UAE’s fifth consecutive triumph in the prestigious event.
UAE: How to transfer money online using mobile numbers within 10 seconds
The UAE’s new ‘Aani’ instant payments platform allows transfers within 10 seconds using only mobile numbers — no IBAN required.
Dubai Metro: How 9,000 cameras track 850,000 riders, 101 trains, 53 stations
Inside Dubai Metro’s Operations Control Centre where AI, 9,000 cameras, and just 20 staff manage 101 trains, 53 stations, and 850,000 daily passengers.
iPhone 17 and Air pre-order sale in UAE: Tight security, short queues at Dubai Mall
The iPhone 17 and Air launch in Dubai Mall saw tight security, short queues, and a rush for the cosmic orange iPhone 17 Pro Max, with some customers buying multiple devices to share with family and employees.
Nissan recalls 1,661 Patrol vehicles in UAE over torque transfer defect
Nissan has launched a recall campaign in the UAE affecting 1,661 Patrol “Y63” 2025 models due to a defect in the torque transfer control unit that may cause sudden propulsion loss.
6 major events and updates happening in the UAE this October
From Global Village’s reopening to Europe’s new entry rules, here are six key updates and events happening in the UAE this October.
Messi scores goal and sets up another as Miami beats Seattle
Lionel Messi scored and assisted as Inter Miami beat Seattle Sounders 3-1 in a fiery MLS rematch. Miami climbed to 5th in the Eastern Conference while Seattle dropped to 4th in the West.
Sharjah Executive Council approves Government Data Sharing Guide
The Sharjah Executive Council has approved a new Government Data Sharing Guide to enhance transparency, streamline services, and strengthen decision-making across government entities.
Weather shift: Temperatures in the UAE are dropping, here’s the forecast
The UAE is experiencing a slight dip in temperatures, with cooler mornings, rising humidity at night, and chances of fog in coastal and inland areas. Dusty and windy weather is also expected in parts of the country this week.
UAE schools enforce strict digital use policy to ensure safe learning environment
Public schools in the UAE have introduced a strict Acceptable Use Policy for digital devices and the internet to ensure safe learning, protect privacy, and promote responsible technology use among students.
Pakistani child star Umer Shah dies after cardiac arrest at 15, celebrities express shock and grief
Pakistani child star Umer Shah, younger brother of Ahmed Shah, passed away at just 15 after a cardiac arrest. His untimely death has left celebrities and fans across the nation in shock and grief.
Dubai Police issue safety advisory ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 match
Dubai Police have issued a safety advisory ahead of the Asia Cup 2025 India-Pakistan match, warning against fireworks, banned items, and disruptive behaviour at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Look: Sheikh Hamdan visits ADIHEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi
The Crown Prince of Dubai visits ADIHEX 2025, the largest-ever edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, showcasing heritage, sustainability, and global participation.
From Abu Dhabi to Hatta: UAE’s beauty through readers’ lens
Readers showcase breathtaking photos of UAE’s landscapes and cityscapes, from Dubai’s vibrant beaches to Hatta’s rugged mountains, highlighting the country’s diverse charm.
UAE launches AI-powered HR assistant to transform government services
The UAE’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) launches an AI-powered HR assistant offering 108 services, automating 80% of HR procedures, and saving 170,000 work hours annually.
From green spaces to smart cities: Sharjah redefines modern living
At IGCF 2025, Sharjah showcased how sustainability, innovation, and smart urban strategies are redefining modern living and attracting global investors.
Dubai Investments eyes IPO for DIP to tap into real estate boom
Dubai Investments PJSC is considering an IPO for its Dubai Investments Park unit, with up to a 25% stake sale by February 2026. The move comes as Dubai’s booming real estate market drives demand for industrial, residential, and commercial properties.
Trump says Charlie Kirk 'is dead' after being shot at Utah Valley University event
Charlie Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University. US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance paid tribute as the FBI investigates.
Emotional Axelsen well beaten on return from six months out
Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen returned to action after six months out with back surgery but suffered a straight-games loss to Japan’s Kodai Naraoka at the Hong Kong Open 2025.
How to exchange your foreign driving licence for a Dubai licence
Expats in Dubai can exchange their home country driving licence for a UAE licence if their country is on the RTA’s approved list. Here’s everything about documents, fees, process, and terms.
Will Sanju Samson fit into India's playing XI in the Asia Cup?
Sanju Samson’s explosive T20I form has sparked debate ahead of India’s Asia Cup 2025 opener against UAE. Will he open, slot in the middle order, or miss out entirely?
UAE airports handle over 1 billion passengers in past decade
The UAE aviation sector has surpassed one billion passengers and 6.4 million aircraft movements between 2015 and 2024, cementing its status as a global hub for travel, tourism, and trade.
What record-high gold prices mean for UAE shoppers, investors today
Gold prices soar to $3,586 per ounce, with 22K at Dh400 in UAE. Here’s what it means for shoppers, investors, and wedding buyers.
How to apply for the UAE 10-year Blue Residency Visa for environmental experts: Eligibility, process and requirements
The UAE’s Blue Residency Visa offers 10-year residency to environmental experts, researchers, and award-winning advocates. Learn eligibility, requirements, and how to apply.
Lunar Eclipse 2025 myths: The science behind blood moon superstitions
From food and pregnancy myths to fears of bad luck, science explains why the September 7 blood moon lunar eclipse is safe to watch and enjoy.
UAE workplaces need some quick solutions to take on burnouts
Burnout is silently draining UAE businesses of talent, productivity, and innovation. Quick solutions like outcome-based work, micro-recovery, and empathetic leadership can help prevent a workplace crisis.
Ugly graffiti disappears from Dubai building walls. Here is how
Dubai Municipality’s volunteer-driven initiative has repainted 200 graffiti-stained walls, restoring the city’s beauty and boosting community spirit.
Abu Dhabi’s G42 to sell $100 million stake in Presight AI
Abu Dhabi’s G42 will offload a 2% stake in Presight AI worth $100M to boost free float, attract global investors, and support FTSE Index inclusion.
Lunar eclipse 2025 in UAE: Where to watch the rare Blood Moon on September 7
A rare total lunar eclipse, dubbed the Blood Moon, will be visible across the UAE on September 7–8, lasting over 5 hours with 82 minutes of totality.
Wizz Air exits Abu Dhabi: Your new guide to low-cost flights
Wizz Air has exited Abu Dhabi, but budget travelers still have plenty of low-cost options with Air Arabia, flydubai, IndiGo, and more.
How NRIs in UAE can update their Indian passport address
NRIs in UAE can update their Indian passport address by reissuing a new passport. Learn about required documents, fees, and the step-by-step application process.
Sharjah Woman’s Death: Husband Booked in India on Dowry and Abuse Charges
Sharjah woman’s death sparks criminal case in India; husband faces dowry and abuse charges as body to be flown to Kerala soon.
UAE: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, Flip7 Now Available for Pre-order Starting at Just Dh135
Pre-order Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7 in UAE from just Dh135/month with exclusive offers from du and e&. Launching July 25.
UAE Hosts Over 17,600 Afghan Evacuees Prior to Resettlement
The UAE has hosted 17,619 Afghan evacuees since 2021, providing shelter, medical care, and education before their resettlement in 21 countries.
At Least 8 Dead in 'Terrorist' Attack on Judiciary Building in Southeast Iran
Eight people, including civilians and attackers, were killed during a terrorist attack on a judiciary building in Zahedan, southeastern Iran.
Rolex, Patek Philippe & More: Top Highlights from Watches and Wonders 2025
At Geneva’s biggest watch fair, four exceptional timepieces stood out — Rolex’s sleek Land-Dweller, Patek Philippe’s complex Ref. 5308G, Vacheron’s cosmic Solaria, and Lange’s emotional Minute Repeater. Each showcased the peak of design, innovation, and craftsmanship in modern watchmaking.
UAE’s Stablecoin Regulations Pave the Way for Safer Digital Asset Adoption
New stablecoin regulations in the UAE and US are boosting trust, driving adoption, and positioning stablecoins as a safer, more mainstream digital payment option.