Saudi Council Approves New Rules to Bolster Judicial Governance and Efficiency

The Supreme Judiciary Council has approved draft regulatory rules governing the formation of courts, the establishment of judicial circuits, and the referral and distribution of cases, as part of efforts to strengthen governance and improve the efficiency of judicial administration.

The Council discussed the measures during a meeting held at its headquarters in Riyadh on Wednesday, chaired by Minister of Justice and Acting President of the Supreme Judiciary Council Sheikh Walid Al-Samaani.

The new rules are intended to promote institutional maturity in judicial administration, provide greater procedural clarity and stability, and improve the efficiency of case distribution and adjudication.

The Council also considered several proposals concerning the procedures for appointing judges. The proposals seek to enhance the quality of the selection, training and professional development of judicial personnel, while strengthening the governance and effectiveness of technical offices. The measures are aimed at supporting the quality of judicial work and improving the efficiency of its outcomes.

Artificial intelligence was also on the Council’s agenda. Members reviewed the results of several pilot AI projects and explored opportunities to use the technology to develop and simplify judicial procedures, improve quality and professional competence, and support data-driven decision-making.

The Council further reviewed progress on the implementation of several decisions adopted at previous meetings. It issued the necessary directives and took appropriate measures on matters on its agenda, within its remit to oversee courts, judges and their work.