Unified UAE Legislation Database

FAQ: Can a court judgment be appealed in the UAE if it is based on evidence that does not actually exist in the case file?

Status

In force

Issuing Authority

Effective date

XX.XX.XXXX

Official Link

https://

Answer: Yes, it can.

 

According to Article 130(3) of Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2022, a judgment shall be deemed null and void if:

- the court relies on evidence that is not present in the case file (e.g., a non-existent expert report), or

- it fails to consider key evidence and arguments submitted by the parties.

 

This is precisely what occurred in Case No. 1196/2024, where:

- the Court of Appeal refused to appoint an expert, relying on a report that was not actually included in the case file;

- the court failed to examine the evidence submitted by the parties;

- the Federal Supreme Court held that such conduct constituted a serious violation, amounting to an error in the assessment of evidence and a distortion of facts. As a result, the decision was annulled and remanded for reconsideration.

 

Relevant case law:

Case No. 1196 of 2024 / Federal Supreme Court / Administrative