For those facing legal challenges in the UAE but struggling with the costs of lawyers and court fees, help is available through various legal aid and pro bono programs offered by local courts. The UAE’s commitment to justice ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can access legal support.
1. Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) – Free Legal Aid
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department offers a range of free legal services to eligible individuals. These services include:
- Legal representation in court
- Coverage of expert witness fees
- Costs for legal notice advertisements in newspapers
Eligibility for these services is based on the seriousness of the case and the financial situation of the applicant. The ADJD provides support through:
- In-person consultations: Visit their offices for direct legal guidance.
- Telephone consultations: Call their legal aid section.
- Assigned lawyers: Lawyers are appointed to handle cases at various stages.
- Expert fees and notice service: ADJD covers these costs for financially distressed individuals.
Contact Information:
- Abu Dhabi: 026512926, 026512657, 026513074, 026513732
- Al Ain: 037047273, 037047160
- Western Region: 026513172
Working Hours: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM on weekdays.
2. Dubai Courts’ ‘Shoor’ Programme
Dubai Courts offers free legal consultations through the ‘Shoor’ program, which connects individuals with authorized law firms. This service is available to financially distressed people and is offered on a one-time basis for pre-filing legal advice.
Conditions:
- Advice is provided to individuals only, not companies.
- The service includes a consultation of 30 to 60 minutes, either by phone or in-person.
Contact Information:
- Call Center: 04 334 7777
Working Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM to 2:20 PM
- Friday: Until 11:20 AM
3. Voluntary Legal Services Smart Portal – ‘Ask A Lawyer’
The Voluntary Legal Services Smart Portal, available via the Dubai Now app, offers free legal advice to those in financial need. Here’s how to access the service:
- Download the Dubai Now app and log in with your UAE Pass.
- Navigate to the ‘Justice’ category and select ‘Ask a Lawyer’.
- Choose your preferred language, communication method, and area of law.
4. DIFC Courts’ Pro Bono Programme
The DIFC Courts provide legal aid for civil cases within the DIFC free zone. Established in 2009, this program offers:
- Free legal advice
- Representation in court
- Fee suspensions
How to Access DIFC Legal Aid:
- Free Legal Clinics: Held bi-weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
- Online Consultations: Request an online consultation via the DIFC website here.
Eligibility: Individuals must prove they cannot afford legal representation.
