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Sheikh Mansour issues Resolution No 3 2026 creating specialized committees under Abu Dhabi Judicial Department
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, in his capacity as Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), has issued Resolution No. 3 of 2026. This resolution establishes dedicated Family Business Dispute Resolution Committees within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The initiative is designed to strengthen the judicial and legislative framework that supports the stability of family-owned enterprises, ensuring the long-term sustainability of their contributions to the national economy.
The committees hold jurisdiction over disputes involving the ownership, management, or memorandum of association of family businesses headquartered in Abu Dhabi. This includes conflicts between partners, family members, or disputes involving third parties and the business entity. Additionally, the committees are tasked with reviewing grievances against decisions made by the Family Council for Dispute Settlement, as outlined in Federal Decree-Law No. 37 of 2022. Such grievances must be submitted within 30 days of the decision or notification to remain valid.
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Urgent preventive measures enabled
To protect the financial position and reputation of these companies, the resolution grants the committees extensive powers to implement urgent preventive measures. These actions are intended to ensure business continuity and prevent disruptions during the legal process. Furthermore, the committees are authorized to enlist technical support from the ADJD registry, external experts, or government personnel tailored to the specific nature of the dispute or the core activity of the company involved.
Regarding the legal process, disputes are referred to the Dispute Settlement Centre if no Family Council exists or if the parties opt out of using one. If amicable settlements fail, the committee assumes jurisdiction and issues expedited, reasoned decisions. These rulings carry the legal weight of a judgment from a Court of First Instance and are subject to appeal under the Civil Procedures Law. The resolution also enforces strict confidentiality; any unauthorized disclosure of information regarding the litigants or the company carries both disciplinary and criminal liability. Each committee is chaired by a judge and supported by two experts in legal, financial, and management fields.