Abu Dhabi Judicial Department introduces flexible payment scheme for court fees

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has introduced a flexible installment service for court fees, enforcement amounts, lawyer fees, and notary charges— all without interest. This initiative aims to enhance access to justice and ease the financial burden on litigants, making ADJD the first judicial entity in the region to offer such an innovative service.

The service covers all litigation-related fees, including court and prosecution fees, alternative dispute resolution costs, lawyer and expert fees, notarization charges, and subscriptions to ADJD services.

Commenting on the initiative, Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, stated: “By providing a structured, interest-free payment plan, we are removing a significant financial barrier to litigation and ensuring that cost considerations do not hinder access to the courts.

He highlighted that by offering flexible and convenient payment options, this service helps maintain financial liquidity for individuals and businesses while fostering an investment-friendly and business-supportive environment in Abu Dhabi.

Launched in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, this initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. His vision focuses on developing world-class judicial services that enhance Abu Dhabi’s economic and legal competitiveness, reinforcing its status as a premier destination for investment and business.

Legal professionals in Abu Dhabi have welcomed this progressive reform, calling it a groundbreaking decision with a tangible impact on individuals and businesses navigating the legal system.

Lawyer Ali Al Hosani stated: “For many litigants, the initial cost of legal proceedings—including court fees and attorney charges—can be a major obstacle to seeking justice. This initiative ensures smoother enforcement of judgments while aligning Abu Dhabi’s judicial system with international best practices, making legal recourse more financially feasible.”

Al Hosani further noted that the reform could be particularly beneficial in family and personal status law cases, where financial constraints often impact the execution of rulings and decisions related to pursuing or defending claims. “In family law disputes, especially those involving expatriate families, financial pressures can hinder access to justice,” he said.

He concluded: “The flexible, interest-free installment plan provides much-needed relief and flexibility in enforcing judgments, allowing parties to focus on achieving fair outcomes rather than being constrained by cost considerations.”

This initiative also aligns with broader economic objectives by supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a globally competitive hub for investment and business. By reducing the initial cost of legal proceedings, policymakers aim to foster a more dynamic legal framework that balances efficiency with accessibility.

Can court fees be paid in installments?

The Public Prosecution may grant a convicted individual a grace period to pay government dues, fines, or other financial penalties upon request, or allow installment payments, provided the total period does not exceed two years. The prosecution also retains the right to revoke such an order if deemed necessary.

Who Is responsible for paying court fees?

The convicted party is liable for the prescribed judicial costs of the lawsuit and related requests, either in full or in part, unless otherwise stipulated by law or regulations. This does not affect the right of concerned parties to seek compensation. If the claimant is partially unsuccessful in their claims, they bear the proportional costs of the unsuccessful portion.