How to File a Case Against a Company in Dubai

Imagine this: You've been wronged by a company in Dubai. Whether it's a breach of contract, unpaid salaries, or faulty services, you feel helpless. But what if I told you there’s a clear path to justice? Filing a case against a company in Dubai might sound daunting, but it’s far more accessible than you think—especially when you know the right steps to take.

Dubai, as part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has a well-structured legal system that offers protection to individuals and companies. With the right approach, you can take a company to court and resolve your dispute, whether you're a local, an expatriate, or even an international party dealing with a Dubai-based company. In this guide, we'll break down every step of the process in detail, but first, let’s explore what you can expect and why it's critical to act sooner rather than later.

Why Filing a Case Matters:

The longer you wait, the weaker your case may become. Evidence fades, memories blur, and opportunities for settlement or compensation might be missed. By acting quickly, you maintain your strength in the legal process and signal to the other party that you are serious. In Dubai, cases against companies can range from employment disputes, consumer protection issues, to business contract breaches. Each category of dispute may have its own nuances, but the process of filing a claim is fundamentally similar.

Step 1: Gather Strong Evidence
Before you even think of filing a case, evidence is your best friend. Whether it’s emails, contracts, invoices, or other documentation, gather everything. The legal system in Dubai is evidence-based, so the more proof you have, the stronger your case will be. This also includes witness statements if they are available.

Step 2: Understand the Jurisdiction
Dubai has various courts, and knowing which court your case belongs to is crucial. For business disputes, cases usually fall under the Dubai Courts or the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts. The DIFC Courts handle matters that pertain to international commercial disputes and are independent of the UAE's civil court system. If your case is related to commercial activities with a company registered in the DIFC, you’ll likely file your claim here. For most other disputes, the regular Dubai Courts will handle your case.

Step 3: Filing Your Case
Once you have your evidence, the next step is to file your case. You can do this either through a legal representative (lawyer) or by visiting the court yourself. The application process requires you to submit a claim form, detailing the nature of the complaint and the compensation or resolution you seek. You’ll need to include your evidence, your arguments, and any witness testimony or expert reports.

Here's a simple breakdown of what to include in your claim form:

Section	Details Required
Claimant Details	Your name, contact details, nationality, and status
Defendant Details	The company's name, address, and details of registration
Nature of Claim	A clear and concise summary of the dispute
Evidence	All documents, contracts, photos, and emails
Remedy Sought	The compensation or resolution you're seeking

Step 4: Legal Representation or Self-Representation
In Dubai, you can choose to represent yourself or hire a lawyer. However, it’s advisable to have legal counsel, especially if the case is complicated or involves large sums of money. Lawyers familiar with UAE law can guide you through the process, handle negotiations, and represent you in court, which could significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Step 5: The Court Process
Once your case is filed, the court will notify the defendant (the company) and schedule a preliminary hearing. During this stage, both parties may attempt mediation—a process where a neutral third party helps resolve the dispute without going to trial. Mediation is a faster, less expensive route and can lead to a settlement that benefits both sides.

If mediation fails, the case moves to trial, where each party presents their evidence and arguments. The Dubai legal system places great importance on documented evidence, so having well-organized paperwork is crucial. Once both sides have made their case, the judge will issue a verdict, which can be appealed if either party disagrees with the decision.

Common Types of Legal Claims Against Companies in Dubai:

1. Employment Disputes
   Many cases arise when companies fail to meet their obligations to employees, such as non-payment of salaries, wrongful termination, or violation of labor rights. Dubai has a strong labor law system that protects workers, both local and expatriate. Filing an employment case usually starts with a complaint to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, after which the case can escalate to court if no settlement is reached.

2. Consumer Protection Claims
   If you've been sold defective goods or services, Dubai’s Consumer Protection Law ensures that companies are held accountable. You can first file a complaint with the Department of Economic Development (DED), and if unresolved, you can escalate it to court.

3. Contract Breaches
   Business contracts form the backbone of commercial activity in Dubai. If a company fails to deliver on its contractual obligations, or if there are issues like fraud, you have the right to take legal action. Courts in Dubai strictly enforce contracts as long as they are legally valid and binding.

4. Real Estate Disputes
   Dubai’s real estate market is vast, and disputes often arise between buyers, sellers, and developers. These disputes might involve delays in handover, misrepresentation of property details, or failure to meet contractual obligations. Cases in this field are usually complex and often require specialized legal advice.

Cost of Filing a Case
Court fees in Dubai are generally calculated as a percentage of the claim amount, with a minimum and maximum cap depending on the type of case. For commercial disputes, fees can range from 6% to 7% of the claim, while labor disputes tend to have lower fees. It's important to note that the losing party usually bears the cost of the legal fees.

What Happens if You Lose?

Even if you lose your case, Dubai’s legal system allows you to appeal. However, appeals must be filed within 30 days of the judgment, and the process can be time-consuming and costly. It’s crucial to evaluate the strength of your case before deciding to appeal, as you will need to present new evidence or legal grounds to challenge the original decision.

In summary, filing a case against a company in Dubai may seem overwhelming, but with proper preparation and legal guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Time, evidence, and jurisdiction are key elements to consider. Whether you are dealing with an employment dispute, consumer protection claim, or a contract breach, the steps outlined above will help you navigate the legal landscape in Dubai. Remember, the legal system here is designed to protect both individuals and businesses, so acting swiftly and with the right evidence will significantly increase your chances of success.