Move to virtual litigation
Remote or virtual litigation was rolled out in the UAE’s courts as a move to combat the spread of COVID-19. At the start of COVID-19 crisis, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) announced its first remote litigation hearings using the video-conferencing technology, where the Commercial Summary Matters Court examined 4 urgent commercial cases in the presence of all parties. The remote litigation allows hearings to take place digitally, with judges able to hear cases live, before delivering verdicts. The hi-tech initiative was launched in line with the UAE Government's stay-at-home strategy. However, over the years, it stands as a testimony to the overhauling of providing fast and seamless services over digital means. All parties involved in hearings - defendants and complainants and legal counsel - join the session via a live video link. In 2020 and 2021, most of the UAE’s courts suspended public court sessions and moved to operate services remotely. View/attend remote hearing sessions via the below links: Related links
Regulation of virtual hearings
Federal Decree by Law No. 35 of 2022 Promulgating the Law of Evidence in Civil and Commercial Transactions
The Federal Decree by Law No. 35 of 2022 Promulgating the Law of Evidence in Civil and Commercial Transactions allow the use of electronic systems and remote communication technologies in various evidentiary and procedural steps before the courts, granting such procedures the same legal validity as traditional in-person procedures. If, for any reason, a remote procedure cannot be completed, it may be postponed to a later session.
- Electronic evidence
Electronic procedures have the same legal force as traditional ones. If it is not possible to conduct them remotely, the hearing is postponed.
- Examination of litigants
The court may examine litigants either in person or via remote communication. If a litigant cannot attend for an acceptable reason, the judge may move to their location to hear their testimony. If the litigant fails to appear without a valid excuse, the court may draw whatever conclusions it deems appropriate.
- Witness testimony
Witnesses may be heard remotely, and they must answer and take the oath. If it is not possible to hear their testimony electronically, the court will require the witness to appear in person, or the judge may move to their location if they have a valid reason.
Federal Law No. 38 of 2022 Promulgating the Criminal Procedures Law
The Federal Law No. 38 of 2022 Promulgating the Criminal Procedures Law states that the authorities have the right to use remote communication technology in criminal procedures involving the accused, the victim, the witnesses, the lawyers, the experts, the translators, civil plaintiffs and others responsible for civil rights. Attendance and confidentiality
Requirements for public attendance and confidentiality of investigations are fully met when using remote communication technology, as long as procedures comply with the law.
- Defendant’s right
The defendant has the right, during the first hearing conducted remotely at any stage of litigation, to request personal attendance before the court. The court may accept the request based on what best serves the proper administration of justice.
- Presence of the lawyer
A defendant’s lawyer may meet or attend with their client during investigation or trial through remote communication technology, in coordination with the competent authority.
- Information security
Remote communication technologies used in these procedures are subject to the State’s approved information security regulations and policies.
Federal Decree by Law Regulating the Notary Profession
As per the Federal Decree by Law No 20 of 2022 Regulating the Notary Profession, notaries in the UAE can conduct all their transactions electronically without requiring the physical presence of the parties or their representatives. This includes submitting documents, verifying identities, signing, paying fees and issuing required notifications. These records are stored electronically with full confidentiality and are subject to the information security regulations and policies of the UAE. Electronic signatures and documents carry the same legal weight as traditional signatures and official documents, enabling transactions to be completed quickly and efficiently while ensuring legal protection for all parties involved.
Related links
FNC adopts federal law on use of remote communication technology for criminal procedure - WAMUpdated On :
19 Nov 2025
