After the judgment: how execution works in the UAE
Winning is not the same as being paid. Execution is the stage that turns a judgment into money — here is how it works.
4 min readPractice areas
Judgment Enforcement
A judgment is only worth what you recover. We open and follow execution files until the amount or right is obtained.
We handle
- Execution of judgments, payment orders and enforceable instruments
- Court asset searches and attachment of accounts, vehicles and property
- Travel bans and their removal
- Settlements and instalment plans during execution
- Execution disputes and objections to unlawful measures
Situations we often see
“I won my case but have not been paid”
We open the execution file, request the court's asset searches and apply for the measures that put pressure on the debtor to pay.
“The debtor offers to pay in instalments”
We negotiate an instalment plan that is documented before the execution judge, so a default can be enforced immediately.
“Measures were taken against me unlawfully”
We file an execution dispute or objection to stop measures that exceed what the law allows.
How we approach it
- 01
Move quickly
The sooner the execution file is opened, the less time the debtor has to move assets.
- 02
Use every lawful tool
Asset searches, attachments and travel bans, used in the order that brings payment.
- 03
Settle with security
A documented settlement before the execution judge can be faster than a forced sale.
- 04
Close it properly
We follow the file until the amount is received and the file is closed.
What to bring
- The final judgment or payment order
- Proof that the judgment was served, if available
- Any information about the debtor's assets, employer or accounts
- Correspondence about payment or settlement
- Your Emirates ID or company documents
- Power of attorney, if we do not already hold one
Questions clients ask
What happens after I win a case?
The judgment has to be enforced through an execution file at the court. The debtor is notified to pay, and if they do not, the court can search for and attach assets, impose a travel ban and take other lawful measures.
Can you find the debtor's assets?
Through the execution court, yes: the court can request information from banks, vehicle and property registries and other authorities. We use these tools within the limits the law sets.
Can a foreign judgment be enforced in the UAE?
Foreign judgments can be enforced in the UAE if they meet the conditions set by UAE law, including any treaty with the issuing country. We assess the judgment before you begin.
Insights
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