Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC) Courts introduced new ancillary services, including a Mediation Service Center and a Notary Service, Wam reports. The services broaden DIFC Courts’ remit beyond adjudication, adding tools for dispute resolution and document authentication. Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued a law back in March to introduce the new services to the courts.

The mediation angle: The Mediation Service Center allows an alternative dispute pathway where parties can appoint mediators registered with the DIFC Courts, agree on fees in advance, and hold sessions online via the upgraded AI-enabled case management system — or in person at DIFC premises.

The notary angle: The new notary service — the UAE’s first — authorizes DIFC Courts’ officers to notarize oaths, affidavits, affirmations, declarations, and true copy certifications. It provides three modes: automated self-service, virtual notarization, and in-person appointments.

How it works: Notarized documents will be logged on the Hedera blockchain, with timestamps ensuring verifiability. The system uses encryption and privacy-preserving protocols to protect sensitive information.

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