Sharjah launches Court of Cassation in landmark judicial reforms

Sharjah: Sharjah’s highest court has officially begun operations on Monday as the newly established Court of Cassation convened its first session, marking a historic moment in the emirate’s legal evolution under a new judicial authority law.

The inaugural sitting of the court, held on July 7, follows the enactment of Law No. (7) of 2025 on the Regulation of Judicial Authority.

Issued by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the law sets a comprehensive framework for the emirate’s judiciary, positioning the Court of Cassation as the ultimate authority on legal appeals and interpretations.

First session

Presided over by Judge Ahmed Abdullah Al Mulla, Chairman of the Court, the first session included civil and criminal appeals, alongside rulings to suspend the enforcement of certain judgments.

Judges Sabri Shamsuddin, Dawood Abu Al-Shawareb, and Miftah Salim Saad also participated.

Judge Al Mulla said: “This marks a historic milestone in Sharjah’s judicial development. The Court of Cassation reflects the vision of His Highness the Ruler to build a modern, integrated legal system rooted in justice and the rule of law.”

He noted that the court’s formation supports the emirate’s commitment to a robust and independent judiciary, highlighting the leadership of Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler and Chairman of the Judicial Council.

Highest judicial authority

The Court of Cassation now stands as Sharjah’s supreme judicial body, tasked with setting legal precedents, reviewing appeals from lower courts, and issuing final, binding judgments. It plays a central role in unifying legal interpretations and promoting consistency in judicial decisions.

Judge Al Mulla added that the court's mandate reinforces the principle of equal access to justice, a cornerstone of the legal system.

Independent and empowered

Under the new law, the Court of Cassation operates as an autonomous body comprising a president, vice president, and judges appointed by Amiri decree. The law grants the court flexibility to convene in any city within the emirate, ensuring broader access to justice.

Multiple judicial chambers within the court will handle appeals and legal disputes, enhancing the efficiency of the system.

Jurisdiction and oversight

The court’s jurisdiction includes appeals from appellate courts, jurisdictional disputes among judicial bodies, and the establishment of unified legal principles. It also has the authority to hold senior government officials accountable for actions taken in the course of their duties, upon referral by the Executive Council.

In line with the Federal Civil Procedures Law, the court will also consider appeals submitted by the Public Prosecutor in the public interest.

Judge Al Mulla acknowledged the contributions of Judge Dr. Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Judicial Department, and other judicial staff for their efforts in strengthening the rule of law.