In a significant move to enhance the judicial process in Dubai, a new decree has been issued concerning the review of deportation orders and travel bans. This legal update aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the recently enacted Decision No. (1) of 2025, which establishes a specialized judicial committee to oversee these critical matters.
Background and Purpose
The decree, issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, comes as part of ongoing efforts to refine and improve the emirate’s legal framework. It addresses the need for a dedicated body to review and make decisions on deportation orders and travel bans, ensuring a fair and efficient process that aligns with Dubai’s commitment to justice and the rule of law.
Committee Structure and Composition
The newly formed Judicial Committee for Reviewing Deportation Orders and Travel Bans replaces a previous committee established in 2007. Its composition reflects a diverse range of expertise:
- A judge from Dubai Courts, holding at least the rank of “First Appeal Judge,” who will chair the committee.
- A judge from Dubai Courts with a minimum rank of “Appeal Judge.”
- A judge from the Rental Disputes Settlement Center, also with a minimum rank of “Appeal Judge.”
- A member of the Public Prosecution, holding at least the rank of “Chief Prosecutor.”
- Two representatives from relevant government entities in Dubai, as determined by the President of the Judicial Council.
This structure ensures a balanced approach, combining judicial expertise with insights from various government sectors.
Committee’s Jurisdiction and Powers
The committee is vested with significant authority to review and decide on the execution of deportation orders, particularly in cases where a travel ban has been issued for the same individual by the judicial authority. Key powers granted to the committee include:
- Postponing the execution of deportation orders or judgments.
- Revoking travel ban orders issued by the judicial authority.
- Granting temporary release to those ordered for deportation, under appropriate guarantees.
- Coordinating with relevant authorities in the UAE to ensure alignment of their decisions with other procedural measures.
Decision-Making Process
The committee’s meetings are considered valid only with full attendance of all members. Decisions are made by majority vote, with the chairman’s side prevailing in case of a tie. Importantly, all decisions are issued and executed in the name of the Ruler of Dubai, underlining their authority and finality.
Finality of Decisions
A crucial aspect of this decree is the finality of the committee’s decisions. They are deemed conclusive and not subject to appeal through any means, ensuring swift and definitive resolutions to cases under review.
Accountability and Reporting
To maintain transparency and facilitate continuous improvement, the committee is required to submit an annual report to the Judicial Council. This report encompasses the results of its work, challenges faced, and proposed solutions and recommendations.
Administrative Support and Cooperation
The decree emphasizes the importance of administrative support for the committee’s functions. Dubai Courts are tasked with providing necessary administrative and technical support. Furthermore, all relevant entities in Dubai are mandated to fully cooperate with the committee, enabling it to fulfill its responsibilities effectively.
Implementation and Effective Date
This new decree replaces the previous Decision No. (7) of 2007 and overrides any conflicting provisions in other legislation. It came into effect on January 30, 2025, marking a new chapter in Dubai’s approach to handling deportation and travel ban cases.
Conclusion
Decision No. (1) of 2025 represents a significant step in Dubai’s ongoing efforts to enhance its judicial system. By establishing a specialized committee with broad powers to review deportation orders and travel bans, the emirate demonstrates its commitment to fair and efficient legal processes. This development is likely to have far-reaching implications for expatriates and the broader legal community in Dubai, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leader in legal innovation and justice in the region.
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