Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Expands Legal Awareness for Expatriates

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has launched a wide initiative to increase legal awareness among expatriates living in the emirate. By working with embassies, hospitals, and other institutions, ADJD wants to make sure every resident has the right knowledge to deal with legal matters in daily life.

Why Legal Awareness Matters in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is home to thousands of expatriates from all over the world. Many of them do not speak Arabic and may find it hard to understand local laws. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has taken important steps to solve this challenge.

In a recent meeting, Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of ADJD, reviewed the report of the Legal Awareness Committee. The report covered the department’s work from the start of 2024 until mid-2025. It showed how awareness programs have helped many expatriates understand legal processes better.

The committee also discussed new plans for the second half of 2025. These plans include expanding programs to reach more sectors such as banks, hotels, and large companies. The goal is clear: make legal knowledge easy, simple, and available to all communities in Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Mansour’s Support and Vision

These efforts follow the guidance of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADJD.

Sheikh Mansour has always stressed the importance of justice and fairness for every person living in the UAE. Legal awareness programs help expatriates feel more confident when handling personal, business, or social matters.

By offering training, workshops, and online resources, ADJD is working to build a culture of lawfulness and transparency across all parts of society.

Strong Partnerships with Embassies and Medical Institutions

One of the biggest strengths of this initiative is the support from foreign embassies and major medical institutions in Abu Dhabi.

Embassies help connect the legal department with their citizens. They make it easier to share legal information in different languages. This way, expatriates feel comfortable learning about local laws from trusted sources.

Medical institutions also play a major role. Hospitals and clinics are busy places where many expatriates visit regularly. By using these spaces to share legal information—through posters, QR codes, and flyers—ADJD ensures its message reaches people where they are.

This community-driven approach is a good example of how Abu Dhabi makes legal awareness part of everyday life.

Modern Tools to Deliver Legal Information

ADJD understands that not everyone learns the same way. That’s why the department is using both traditional and digital tools to spread legal awareness.

Some of these methods include:

• Workshops and Seminars: Face-to-face events where people can ask questions directly.
• Online Sessions: Remote programs that allow expatriates to join from anywhere.
• Email Newsletters: Sent to organizations, companies, and medical institutions.
• QR Codes: Quick links to legal resources in different languages.
• Social Media Campaigns: Easy-to-access videos and posts in English and other languages.

This smart mix ensures that legal information is simple, accessible, and practical for all expatriates.

Expanding the Program in 2025

The second half of 2025 will see a bigger outreach plan. ADJD will partner with banks, hotels, and major companies, since these are common places where expatriates interact daily.

In addition, the department is working with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry to connect with business councils. This step will help professionals and investors learn more about legal processes in Abu Dhabi.

Another new step is the production of legal awareness videos in English. These will be posted on ADJD’s official channels and social media. The goal is to make legal knowledge easy to understand and quick to access.

Main Topics Covered in Awareness Programs

The awareness programs are built around key legal services that matter most to expatriates. Some of the most important include:

Civil Marriage in Abu Dhabi

Expatriates can now register civil marriages in Abu Dhabi. ADJD explains the process, required documents, and benefits clearly to couples.

Wills and Notary Services

Preparing wills is very important for expatriates who want to secure their family’s future. ADJD provides will registration services in English and explains how to use notary services.

New Laws and Regulations

The UAE regularly updates its laws to match global best practices. ADJD makes sure expatriates receive these updates in simple language.

Cybercrime and Online Safety

Cybercrime is a growing risk worldwide. ADJD teaches expatriates how to avoid scams, fraud, and identity theft. The program also explains how to report online crimes.

Remote Legal Services

Many judicial and notary services are now available online. Expatriates learn how to access these platforms safely and quickly.

Making Legal Knowledge Part of Everyday Life

Legal awareness is not just about learning the law. It is about building confidence in everyday life. When expatriates understand their rights and responsibilities, they feel safer and more connected to the community.

This is why ADJD is focusing on making legal knowledge practical and part of daily routines. Whether through a hospital visit, a workplace newsletter, or a social media video, expatriates can access the right information whenever they need it.

Building Abu Dhabi as a Global Hub for Expatriates

These programs also support Abu Dhabi’s image as a welcoming global city. With millions of expatriates living and working in the emirate, inclusivity is a top priority.

By making legal services simple, fair, and accessible, Abu Dhabi shows that it is not only a business hub but also a place where residents from all backgrounds can live with peace of mind.

Future Plans Beyond 2025

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department is not stopping with the 2025 program. Future plans include larger digital campaigns, more partnerships, and expanded training sessions for businesses and community groups.

This long-term vision matches the UAE’s goal of creating a society where every resident feels informed, safe, and respected under the law.