DIFC reports growing activity in Q1 2026
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts reported statistics for the first quarter of 2026. As of the reports, total claims grew 22%, from 325 claims in Q1 2025, to 396 claims in Q1 2026, with 99% of proceedings conducted online.
From January to the end of March 2026, 396 claims were filed across all Court divisions, accounting for a total average claim value of AED 13.3 million. The main Court of First Instance (CFI) and its specialised divisions recorded 50 claims, with an average claim of AED 91.8 million and a total of AED 3 billion.
The DIFC Courts wills service also recorded increased activity. In Q1 of 2026, 883 wills were registered — a 120% increase compared to the same period in 2025 — and 10 probate orders were issued.
The Courts’ pro bono programme also assisted more than 162 individuals, supported by 39 volunteer firms, and 49 volunteer lawyers.
The first quarter of 2026 saw further enhancement of the DIFC Courts’ judicial lineup. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, swore in three new judges: Justice Patrick Keane, Justice Mark Pelling, and Justice Dato’ Mary Lim Thiam Suan.
