Understand the ADGM forum before taking action
ADGM has a legal framework that directly applies English common law, including principles of equity, alongside its applicable regulations. The ADGM Courts include a Court of First Instance and a Court of Appeal.
Civil and commercial jurisdiction must be assessed under the governing framework. Parties may confer jurisdiction by a written request to have the Court of First Instance determine their dispute. That does not mean every UAE contract or property claim automatically belongs in ADGM.
Legal practitioner in the ADGM Courts
Advocate Suhail Rana is a legal practitioner in the ADGM Courts and Partner at IAB Advocates & Legal Consultants. The initial review considers the legal basis for the claim, relevant agreements, available evidence and the procedural stage.
For commercial clients, the assessment also addresses the business impact of the dispute: interruption to a transaction, contested payments, the position of counterparties and whether settlement can meet the client’s objectives.
Commercial, investment & property matters
- Contract and payment disputes: non-performance, termination, unpaid sums, disputed obligations and the supporting transaction records.
- Company and shareholder claims: agreements between owners, corporate decision-making and disputed financial or contractual obligations.
- Investment disputes: identify the contracting entity, alleged conduct, account terms and evidence supporting a claim.
- Property matters: review sale and purchase agreements, handover documents, payment schedules, notices and the applicable jurisdiction.
- Enforcement strategy: assess the judgment or order, the relevant procedure and where assets may be available.
Property location needs careful review
Before starting a property claim, identify the property, the parties and the transaction dates. The relevant legal framework, territorial scope and any transitional provisions require review. Do not assume that every Abu Dhabi property dispute belongs in ADGM, or that a contract’s choice of law settles the forum question.
For purchaser and developer disputes, keep the complete agreement, amendments, invoices, payment confirmations, title or registration documents, handover records and correspondence. Identify the specific obligation that remains disputed.
Prepare for electronic proceedings
ADGM Courts provide electronic filing and case management. Organising documents early helps counsel prepare a coherent record, identify disclosure issues and plan witness or expert evidence. The applicable rules, practice directions and court orders govern the steps and deadlines.
Questions about ADGM Courts representation
Can we agree to use ADGM Courts for a commercial dispute?
A written request by the parties can confer jurisdiction under the ADGM Courts framework. The wording and nature of the dispute should be reviewed before relying on it.
Are ADGM Courts available for every type of legal case?
No. Their published guidance excludes criminal cases, family cases and disputes involving estates or inheritance. This page concerns civil, commercial and property dispute advice.
What information is useful for an initial consultation?
Provide a brief chronology, the names of the parties, the complete contract and dispute clause, key payment records and any papers or deadlines from existing proceedings.
Official sources & further reading
Updated 12 October 2026. General information; the applicable law, rules and your documents require assessment for your matter.
General information only; not legal advice. An enquiry does not create a lawyer-client relationship.