“Final and binding upon all.” That’s a phrase you will hear often regarding the judgments handed down from this very building, the Union Supreme Court.
This is the highest court in the United Arab Emirates. It is sometimes called the Federal Supreme Court. The Union Supreme Court stands as a pillar of justice in Abu Dhabi. It embodies the principles of law and order within the UAE.
Established on August 2, 1973, the Union Supreme Court plays a crucial role in the UAE’s legal system. The court is located here in Abu Dhabi. However, it can hold sessions in any of the Emirates if needed.
The Union Supreme Court reviews challenges to judgments from the Federal Court of Appeal. It also has original jurisdiction over specific issues. These include disputes between emirates. The court falls under the Ministry of Justice.
Not all seven Emirates fall under the court’s jurisdiction. Dubai and Ras Al Khayma have their own judicial systems.
The UAE Constitution outlines the court’s structure. It consists of a President and several judges. The number of judges cannot exceed five. They are appointed by the President of the Union. This happens after approval by the Supreme Council.
Judges cannot be removed from office. There are a few exceptions. These include death, resignation, or completion of their term. Retirement, permanent disability, disciplinary discharge, and appointment to other offices with their agreement are other exceptions.
The judgments of the Union Supreme Court are wide-ranging. They cover disputes between Emirates. They address constitutionality and its interpretation. The court also handles interrogations of senior officials. These include Ministers. Crimes that threaten the interests of the Union also fall under its purview.
Article 101 of the Emirati Constitution emphasizes the court’s authority. It states that the judgments of the Union Supreme Court are final. They are binding on everyone.
The Union Supreme Court consists of different departments. One department deals with constitutional articles. Others consider various articles stipulated by law. A department is presided over by the chief justice and senior judges. Other departments are led by original or alternate judges. Judgments are usually issued by a panel of five judges.
To be appointed as a judge, several conditions must be met. A judge must have full capacity. They must be a UAE citizen. They must be at least forty years old. A degree in Islamic Sharia, law, or both is essential. They need at least five years of experience in the Courts of Appeal. Exemplary behavior and good conduct are also required.
The President and judges take an oath before assuming their duties. They swear to rule with justice and be faithful to the constitution.
The Union Supreme Court also has a College of Commissioners. This college prepares actions and arranges them for pleading. They prepare reports on the legal opinions. The court also has a technical office. This office classifies legal rules and prepares technical research.
The independence of the Emirati judiciary reinforces the country’s stability. The UAE judiciary is independent. Judges are subject only to the law and their conscience. Cases are handled fairly without interference. The UAE guarantees the mission of justice. It respects judges and judicial bodies.
Here at the Union Supreme Court, justice is the foundation. It is the final word in the legal landscape of the UAE.