Abu Dhabi Launches Specialised Panels to Handle Family Business Disputes

The Abu Dhabi Family Business Council has welcomed a decision by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, to establish specialised committees to resolve disputes involving family-owned businesses in the Emirate, calling it a key step towards strengthening stability and long-term sustainability.

Operating under the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Council said the move reinforces the legal and institutional framework governing family enterprises, ensuring their continuity across generations.

According to the Council, the timing of the decision is crucial as family businesses continue to play an expanding role in the national economy. The newly formed committees are expected to provide streamlined and effective mechanisms for dispute resolution, helping preserve internal cohesion, maintain operational continuity and enhance overall investor confidence in Abu Dhabi’s business environment.

Khaled Abdul Karim Al Fahim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Family Business Council, said the initiative reflects a forward-looking leadership approach aimed at strengthening the Emirate’s position as a global economic hub. He noted that the decision highlights a commitment to building a robust legislative and judicial ecosystem that supports the growth and sustainability of family-run enterprises.

He added that family businesses remain a fundamental pillar of Abu Dhabi’s economy, and the introduction of specialised dispute resolution mechanisms will enable them to address challenges more efficiently while safeguarding long-term stability and growth.

The Council emphasised that the initiative will further strengthen governance standards and sustainability practices, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision of fostering a diversified and competitive economy.

Under the new framework, the committees will handle disputes related to incorporation agreements, management structures and ownership issues involving family businesses based in Abu Dhabi. These disputes may arise between partners, family members or third parties. The committees will also review appeals against decisions issued by family councils in accordance with relevant laws.

The committees have been granted wide-ranging powers, including the authority to take urgent and preventive measures to ensure business continuity and protect corporate reputation and financial standing. They may also engage specialised legal and technical experts depending on the complexity of the case.

The process will prioritise amicable settlements through dispute resolution centres. In cases where settlement is not possible, the committees will issue binding decisions, subject to appeal, while maintaining strict confidentiality of all proceedings.

Reaffirming its role, the Abu Dhabi Family Business Council said it remains committed to supporting and empowering family businesses, enhancing their contribution to economic growth and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s standing as a leading global business destination.

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