How to File a Mediation Request Online via the DIFC Courts Portal

Initiating a mediation request online is governed by the DIFC Mediation Law (DIFC Law No. 1 of 2009) and the DIFC Courts Practice Direction on Mediation, which apply within the Dubai International Financial Centre free zone in the UAE.

Related Services: Explore our Courts Litigation Services and DIFC Courts services for practical legal support in this area.

HOW DO I ACCESS THE DIFC COURTS PORTAL TO START A MEDIATION REQUEST ONLINE?

You begin by visiting the DIFC Courts portal and selecting the mediation service option.
The portal provides a secure login page where registered users enter their email and password, or new users create an account using a valid Emirates ID or passport number.
Once logged in, the "File a Mediation Request" button appears on the dashboard, guiding you to the online form.
The DIFC Courts Practice Direction states that all mediation requests must be submitted through this electronic system to ensure proper case management (DIFC Courts Practice Direction).

WHAT INFORMATION MUST I PROVIDE IN THE ONLINE MEDIATION REQUEST FORM?

The form requires the claimant's and respondent's full names, contact details, and a brief description of the dispute.
You must also specify the preferred language for proceedings, indicate whether legal representation will be used, and confirm that you have read and agree to the mediation confidentiality undertaking.
Each field is marked with an asterisk to show it is mandatory, and the system validates entries in real time to prevent incomplete submissions.
Providing accurate information helps the DIFC Mediation Service Centre assign a case number and schedule the initial session without delay (DIFC Mediation Law).

WHICH DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTACH TO THE MEDIATION REQUEST AND HOW SHOULD THEY BE FORMATTED?

You must upload a copy of the underlying contract or agreement that gives rise to the dispute, any relevant correspondence, and a signed statement of facts.
All attachments should be in PDF format, not exceeding 10 MB each, and must be legible with clear text; scanned images are acceptable if they meet these standards.
The portal displays a progress bar that confirms successful upload and alerts you if a file exceeds the size limit or is in an unsupported format.
These requirements are outlined in the DIFC Mediation Practice Direction, which aims to ensure that mediators have complete information before the first meeting (DIFC Mediation Practice Direction).

ARE THERE ANY FEES OR COURT COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH FILING A MEDIATION REQUEST ONLINE?

Filing a mediation request through the DIFC Courts portal currently incurs no administrative fee.
However, if the parties proceed to a mediated settlement that requires recording, a nominal transcription fee may apply, as set out in the DIFC Courts Fee Schedule.
The portal displays a fee estimate only when you select optional services such as certified copies of the mediation record or interpreter assistance.
You should review the fee schedule before confirming any additional services to avoid unexpected charges (DIFC Courts Fee Schedule).

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL TIMELINE FOR THE DIFC MEDIATION SERVICE CENTRE TO ACKNOWLEDGE AND SCHEDULE A MEDIATION SESSION?

After submission, the portal generates an automatic acknowledgment with a case number within one business day.
The Mediation Service Centre then reviews the request and contacts the respondent within five working days to invite participation.
If the respondent accepts, the first mediation session is usually scheduled within ten to fifteen working days from the date of acknowledgment.
These timelines are stated in the DIFC Mediation Practice Direction, which seeks to resolve disputes swiftly while preserving party autonomy (DIFC Mediation Practice Direction).

HOW CAN I TRACK THE STATUS OF MY MEDIATION REQUEST AND RECEIVE UPDATES THROUGH THE PORTAL?

The dashboard displays a case timeline that shows each stage: filing acknowledged, invitation sent, respondent response, session scheduled, and outcome recorded.
You receive email notifications at each milestone, and you can also opt in for SMS alerts by updating your contact preferences in the account settings.
If you need to communicate with the mediator or upload additional evidence, the portal provides a secure messaging function that logs all exchanges.
These features are designed to keep parties informed and reduce the need for separate correspondence (DIFC Courts Portal User Guide).

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE OTHER PARTY DOES NOT RESPOND TO THE MEDIATION INVITATION SENT VIA THE PORTAL?

If the respondent fails to reply within the five-day window, the claimant may request that the Mediation Service Centre issue a formal reminder through the portal.
Should the respondent still not respond after the reminder, the claimant can elect to pursue alternative dispute resolution methods, such as arbitration or litigation, while retaining the option to revisit mediation later.
The portal records the lack of response, which may be considered by a tribunal or court when assessing the parties' willingness to settle amicably.
This procedure is detailed in the DIFC Mediation Practice Direction, which emphasizes that non-participation does not prejudice the claimant's rights (DIFC Mediation Practice Direction).

Frequently Asked Questions

What legal framework governs mediation in the DIFC?
The DIFC Mediation Law (DIFC Law No. 1 of 2009) sets out the principles, confidentiality rules, and enforceability of mediated settlements within the DIFC. The Arabic text of UAE legislation as published in the Official Gazette prevails over any translation.

Do I need a lawyer to file a mediation request online?
Legal representation is not mandatory; parties may appear in person or through a registered representative. However, if you choose to be represented, you must upload a valid power of attorney when completing the online form.

Can I withdraw a mediation request after it has been submitted?
Yes, you may withdraw the request at any time before the mediator issues a settlement agreement by using the "Withdraw Request" option in the portal. The withdrawal is recorded in the case timeline and does not affect any rights to pursue other remedies.

Is the mediated settlement enforceable in UAE courts?
A settlement agreement reached through DIFC mediation is enforceable as a contract under the DIFC Mediation Law. To enforce it in onshore UAE courts, the party seeking enforcement must first obtain an endorsement from the DIFC Courts, which treats the agreement as a court-recognised deed.

What if I need an interpreter during the mediation session?
You can request interpreter services when completing the online form or through the secure messaging function after the case is created. The DIFC Mediation Service Centre will arrange a qualified interpreter and include the cost in the fee estimate shown on the portal.

How long does the mediator have to issue a settlement record after the session?
The mediator must provide a draft settlement record within three working days of the session. Parties have five working days to review, sign, and return the document; once signed, the mediator issues the final record, which is then available for download from the portal.

If your matter involves difc mediation service in the United Arab Emirates, you are welcome to request a consultation with Nour Attorneys. Our team can assess your position under the law currently in force and outline the options available to you. Request a consultation

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