When it comes to the UAE legal system, accuracy in translation isn’t optional—it’s a legal requirement. Whether you are dealing with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts or onshore UAE courts, the rules around translated contracts and litigation bundles differ significantly. For businesses, law firms, and individuals, understanding these differences is critical to ensuring compliance and avoiding delays.

Al-Hamd Legal Translation, a Ministry of Justice (MOJ)-certified provider, specializes in bridging this gap by offering precise, legally recognized translations tailored to each court’s standards.

Why Translation Standards Differ Between DIFC and Onshore Courts

Both court systems play vital roles in the UAE, but their legal frameworks differ:

• DIFC Courts operate under common law principles, and English is the primary working language.

• Onshore Courts follow civil law principles and require all documents to be submitted in Arabic.

This distinction directly affects how contracts and litigation bundles are prepared and submitted.

Translation Standards for DIFC Courts

DIFC is designed to attract international investors and businesses. Therefore:

• Language of proceedings: English is accepted, but Arabic translations may be required if cases intersect with onshore enforcement.

• Translation focus: Clarity, consistency with international legal terminology, and compliance with DIFC procedural rules.

• Common use cases:

  • Shareholder agreements

  • Joint venture contracts

  • Cross-border litigation bundles

Key takeaway: If a contract or litigation bundle may later be enforced in onshore courts, certified Arabic translation becomes mandatory.

Translation Standards for Onshore Courts

Onshore courts, including Dubai Courts and Federal Courts across the UAE, have stricter requirements:

• Language of proceedings: Arabic is mandatory.

• Translation requirement: All contracts, evidence, and litigation bundles must be submitted with MOJ-certified legal translations.

• Non-compliance risk: Incorrect or uncertified translations can result in rejection of documents, case delays, or even dismissal.

Key takeaway: For onshore courts, Arabic legal translation is not optional—it is the foundation of admissibility.

DIFC vs Onshore Courts: Side-by-Side Comparison

Real-World Case Example

A multinational company filed a contract dispute in DIFC Courts using English-only documents. When enforcement was later sought in Dubai Courts (onshore), the case stalled because certified Arabic translations were missing. The company lost valuable time and resources before correcting the issue.

Lesson learned: Always prepare translations according to both jurisdictions if future enforcement is a possibility.

Why Choose Al-Hamd Legal Translation?

Al-Hamd ensures compliance and precision across both DIFC and onshore legal systems:

• MOJ-certified translations in 120+ languages

• Expertise in contracts, litigation bundles, and arbitration documents

• Trusted by law firms, corporate clients, and individual investors

• Quick turnaround without compromising accuracy

Clear Takeaways

• DIFC Courts may accept English, but Arabic translation is often needed for enforceability.

• Onshore Courts require Arabic-only, MOJ-certified translations for all legal documents.

• Failing to comply with these translation standards can delay or jeopardize your case.

Conclusion

Understanding the translation requirements for DIFC vs onshore courts is critical for any business or individual engaged in UAE legal proceedings. By ensuring your contracts and litigation bundles are properly translated and certified, you safeguard your case from unnecessary obstacles.

For expert assistance, trust Best Legal Translation in Dubai
Al-Hamd Legal Translation, your partner for accurate and compliant legal translations in the UAE.