What is the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit in the UAE?

Hello,

The general statute of limitations for most civil claims is 15 years. This applies to claims that do not have a specific limitation period prescribed by the law.

The period starts from the date when the right to sue arises, i.e., when the claim is first legally possible to make.

The limitation period for claims relating to debt or amounts owed (e.g., for loans, unpaid bills, or contractual payments) is 5 years.

The period begins from the date the debt becomes due. Claims related to the recovery of property or disputes about ownership generally have a limitation period of 15 years.

However, if the property was transferred fraudulently or the ownership was disputed, the period may be different.

15 years: The general statute of limitations for civil actions, unless a special statute of limitations is provided for in the law.

According to UAE law, the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit ranges from 1 to 15 years, depending on the type of case.

For example, contractual claims have a statute of limitations of 15 years, while debt recovery claims have a statute of limitations of 5 years.

You can contact us via WhatsApp for precise legal advice. We specialize in civil cases and can guide you through the process.

Best regards,

Thank you for reaching out with your question regarding the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit in the UAE.

The statute of limitations for civil lawsuits in the UAE generally depends on the type of claim. Here are some key points:

- General Civil Claims:

The standard limitation period for most civil claims is 15 years from the date the cause of action arises.

- Contracts:

Claims based on contracts typically have a limitation period of 15 years, unless otherwise specified in the contract.

- Personal Injury:

Claims for personal injury or damages caused by an accident must be filed within 3 years from the date of the incident.

- Commercial Claims:

Claims relating to commercial transactions (e.g., debt recovery, breaches of contract, etc.) are generally subject to a 5-year limitation period.

It's important to note that the statute of limitations may vary depending on the specific facts of your case, and there may be exceptions in certain circumstances.

If you’re considering legal action, I recommend speaking with an attorney to ensure your case is handled promptly and effectively.

Please feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp or email to discuss your situation further and explore how I can assist you in resolving the matter.

Best regards,

Suhail Rana

Dear Client,

Thanks for your question! I hope you are doing well. I will assist you in this matter.

In the UAE, the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit varies by type of claim:

1. Contractual claims: 15 years (UAE Civil Code, Article 473)

2. Tort claims: 3 years (UAE Civil Code, Article 298)

3. Cheque disputes: 3 years (UAE Commercial Code, Article 670)

4. Insurance disputes: 3 years (UAE Civil Code, Article 1036)

5. Building contract disputes: 10 years (UAE Civil Code, Article 880)

6. Employment disputes: 1 year (UAE Labour Law)

The limitation period typically begins when the cause of action arises or when the injured party becomes aware of the harm. It's crucial to file within these timeframes to avoid having your claim dismissed as time-barred.

Thanks & Regards,

ABDUL WAHIED

Greetings of the day,

The statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit in the UAE depends on the nature of the claim. Federal Decree-Law No. 50/2022 Issuing the Commercial Transactions Law (Civil Procedures Law) and relevant legislation outline the timeframes.

Best regards,

Sara Al Saedi Advocates and Legal Consultants

Hello,

Under the UAE Civil Transactions Law (Law No. 5 of 1985 and its amendments), the statutes of limitation vary depending on the type of claim as follows:

- Three-year limitation period (Article 336) for claims to be heard after three years.

- Five-year limitation period (Article 475) for claims to be heard after five years for the rights of doctors, lawyers, and wrongly paid taxes.

- Fifteen-year limitation period (Article 473) for claims to be heard after fifteen years from the date the right arises.

Additionally, there are various specific rulings or claims with special deadlines.

For example: Article 475 stipulates that "a claim shall not be heard upon denial and in the absence of a lawful excuse if five years have passed on the following rights: The rights of doctors, pharmacists, lawyers, engineers, experts, professors, teachers, and brokers, provided that these rights are due for work performed in their profession and expenses incurred."

Article 474 states that: "No claim for any recurring right shall be heard upon denial after five years without a lawful excuse. For the inheritance due to the possession of a bad faith holder, the claim shall not be heard upon denial after fifteen years without a lawful excuse."

Therefore, it is essential first to understand the right you want to claim and the conditions for filing the case, ensuring that the appropriate time period is identified accurately.

If you need any assistance, you can contact us.