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Enforcing foreign judgments in Dubai involves a specific legal process governed by UAE law. The UAE is not automatically obligated to enforce foreign judgments, and several conditions must be met for a foreign judgment to be recognized and enforced in Dubai. Here's an overview of the process:

Eligibility of the Foreign Judgment

The foreign judgment must meet certain criteria to be eligible for enforcement in Dubai. These criteria include:

  • The judgment must be final and conclusive, meaning it cannot be subject to appeal in the country where it was issued
  • The judgment must be issued by a court that has jurisdiction over the matter according to the laws of the country where the judgment was rendered.
  • The judgment must not conflict with public policy or violate the principles of Sharia law (Islamic law), which is the main source of legislation in the UAE.

Application for Enforcement

The party seeking to enforce the foreign judgment in Dubai must file an application with the Dubai Courts. The application typically includes:

  • A copy of the foreign judgment, duly authenticated by the relevant authorities.
  • Evidence of the finality and authenticity of the foreign judgment.
  • Any additional documents required by the Dubai Courts.

Review and Approval

The Dubai Courts will review the application and the foreign judgment to ensure that it meets the necessary criteria for enforcement. If the court determines that the foreign judgment is eligible for enforcement, it will issue a decision recognizing the judgment and ordering its enforcement in Dubai.

Enforcement Proceedings

Once the foreign judgment is recognized by the Dubai Courts, the party seeking enforcement can initiate proceedings to enforce the judgment against the debtor's assets in Dubai. Enforcement measures may include asset seizure, garnishment of bank accounts, or other forms of execution.

It's important to note that the enforcement of foreign judgments in Dubai can be a complex legal process, and the outcome may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. Parties seeking to enforce foreign judgments in Dubai are advised to seek legal assistance from qualified attorneys with experience in international law and UAE legal procedures.

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