I personally believe and during my professional experience I have seen that the UAE’s legal sector has experienced significant expansion, driven by economic growth, international investments, and regulatory advancements. This transformation has directly influenced the demand for litigation funding, as businesses and individuals seek financial support to navigate complex legal disputes without upfront costs.

Let me explain, what are few major factors driving demand in UAE market:

Increase in Commercial Disputes:

• With the UAE’s rise as a global business hub, contract disputes have surged, particularly in high-stakes sectors like construction, real estate, and finance.
• The growing reliance on arbitration and cross-border transactions has made litigation funding a strategic necessity

Dual Legal Framework:

• • The UAE’s unique system—onshore civil law courts and offshore common law jurisdictions (DIFC, ADGM)—creates a dynamic environment for litigation funding.
  • Offshore jurisdictions provide clear regulatory frameworks for third-party funding, increasing confidence among investors and litigants.

• • High litigation and arbitration costs often deter claimants from pursuing valid cases.
  • Litigation funding ensures businesses and individuals can seek justice without financial constraints, shifting the cost burden to funders.

• • The DIFC’s Practice Direction No. 2 of 2017 and ADGM’s Funding Rules 2019 have legitimized litigation funding, fostering investor confidence.
  • This has encouraged global litigation funders to enter the UAE market, increasing competition and accessibility.

At WinJustice, we are committed to spreading awareness and advancing the adoption of litigation funding across the MENA region. Our commitment is reflected in various initiatives, including education, thought leadership, and industry awareness.

As part of this mission, we are excited to announce the launch of our LinkedIn newsletter, "Litigation Funding MENA Insight"—the first dedicated newsletter in the region focusing on litigation funding. This initiative is particularly significant as it is led by a UAE-based company, bringing deep regional expertise and global perspectives.

Our newsletter will serve as a trusted resource, providing insights, case studies, and expert discussions on litigation funding. To ensure accessibility and reach, it will be published in both Arabic and English, making it the go-to platform for businesses, legal professionals, and investors interested in this evolving field.

The key Impacts on the Legal Industry: 

• There is Enhanced Access to Justice: SMEs and individuals can now challenge well-funded opponents without financial barriers.
• Market Competitiveness: The entrance of international funders has led to the adoption of global best practices, benefiting claimants.
• Stronger Negotiation Leverage: With financial backing, businesses can negotiate settlements more effectively, knowing they have the resources to litigate if necessary.

Also, there are reports that litigation funding in the UAE increased by 40% over five years, with SMEs as the largest beneficiaries. Hence, we can say that litigation funding has become a crucial tool in the UAE’s evolving legal ecosystem. As regulatory clarity improves and market awareness increases, its role in providing financial access to justice will only strengthen.

2. In your experience, how do cultural and legal nuances in the UAE influence the way litigation funding investments are sourced and structured?

According to my experience, The UAE’s litigation funding market is shaped by deep-rooted cultural values and a dual legal framework that integrates both civil and common law principles. For anybody, understanding these nuances is essential for structuring investments effectively.

I can say that broadly Cultural & Legal Influences includes factors such as:  

• • The UAE business community traditionally favors dispute resolution methods like arbitration and mediation over lengthy court proceedings.
  • Litigation funders must tailor their models to prioritize arbitration financing, particularly for high-value commercial disputes.

1. • Many UAE businesses operate under Islamic finance principles, requiring litigation funding models to be structured without interest-based arrangements.
   • Alternative funding structures, such as success-based fees and equity-sharing, are gaining traction.

1. • Businesses and high-net-worth individuals value discretion in legal matters.
   • Litigation funders must implement strict confidentiality agreements and strategic case management to ensure reputational protection.

1. • Offshore jurisdictions (DIFC & ADGM) have explicit litigation funding regulations, making them attractive venues for funded claims.
   • Onshore courts lack clear regulations, requiring funders to conduct extensive due diligence before financing claims.

1. • Disputes involving government-linked entities require additional compliance measures and strategic planning.
   • Litigation funders must account for potential regulatory scrutiny when financing such cases.

If you research, you may find incidents like Dubai-based firms have secured litigation funding for a contractual dispute against a overseas partner, leveraging the ADGM’s favorable legal framework.

Precisely speaking, Cultural and legal nuances make the UAE a unique but highly promising market for litigation funding. Tailored investment structures that respect local customs, regulatory landscapes, and business preferences are key to success. In fact, we estimate that 60% of funded cases in the UAE involved arbitration, highlighting the preference for ADR.

Actually, if you see, The UAE is rapidly emerging as a key market for litigation funding, but as with any evolving legal landscape, obviously funders have legitimate concerns about investing in the region. Addressing these concerns requires a deep understanding of the regulatory environment, enforcement mechanisms, and legal complexities that define the UAE’s legal system.

Few genuine concerns for Litigation Funders could be: 

• • • Unlike jurisdictions such as the UK and Australia, UAE’s onshore courts lack a well-defined framework for litigation funding.
    • Offshore jurisdictions like the DIFC and ADGM have established regulations, but clarity is still evolving in onshore courts.

1. 1. • A favorable judgment does not always guarantee successful enforcement, particularly in cross-border disputes.
      • UAE’s legal system allows for appeals and potential delays in execution, which can extend the time before a funder sees returns.

1. 1. • Funders must assess whether cases have strong legal merit and a high probability of success.
      • There is also concern over whether claimants will be able to recover awarded damages, particularly if assets are difficult to trace.

UAE courts do not always follow strict precedents, which creates unpredictability for litigation funders who rely on historical case outcomes for underwriting decisions.

However, the good thing is we can address these concerns through initiating appropriate measure, like:

• • Encouraging claimants to litigate within DIFC or ADGM courts can provide a more predictable legal framework with explicit third-party funding regulations.

1. • Litigation funders should conduct thorough case assessments, including analyzing asset recovery potential before committing to funding.

1. • Collaborating with asset recovery firms and legal experts to ensure judgments are enforceable across jurisdictions.
   • Utilizing treaties such as the New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards.

1. • Structuring agreements with contingency elements can mitigate risks.
   • Working with law firms that offer success-based fees ensures that all stakeholders are aligned in their objectives.

To summarise, The UAE is a lucrative but complex market for litigation funders. By strategically selecting jurisdictions, conducting robust due diligence, and leveraging international enforcement treaties, funders can mitigate risks and take advantage of the growing demand for litigation finance in the region.

At WinJustice, we firmly believe that managing duration and collectability risk is one of the most critical aspects of litigation funding. In the UAE, these risks can be more significant due to procedural timelines and enforcement challenges. However, with a structured and strategic approach, they can be effectively mitigated. This is precisely what we implement at WinJustice—ensuring that every case is managed with precision, minimizing risks while maximizing successful outcomes.

Lets understand Duration and Collectability risks:

• • • Court proceedings in UAE onshore courts can take longer due to multiple appeal stages.
    • Arbitration cases tend to resolve faster, particularly within DIFC and ADGM jurisdictions.

1. 1. • Even if a judgment is awarded, claimants may face difficulties in collecting damages.
      • Defendants may shift or conceal assets, making enforcement challenging.

Our suggested strategies to manage these risks are:

1. Prioritize Arbitration Cases:

1. 1. • Arbitration is often faster than litigation and provides clear enforcement mechanisms.
      • DIFC and ADGM arbitration courts have robust mechanisms for enforcing awards internationally.

2. Early Case Assessment & Due Diligence:

1. 1. • Before funding a case, funders must evaluate the financial stability of the defendant and whether they have recoverable assets.
      • Engaging forensic accounting experts helps in asset tracing.Structuring Litigation Agreements with Milestones:

1. 1. • Including timelines in funding agreements helps ensure claimants and their legal teams are progressing cases efficiently.
      • Phased funding disbursements can incentivize timely case resolution.Working with Local Legal Experts & Asset Recovery Teams:

1. 1. • Partnering with firms specializing in UAE asset recovery and judgment enforcement can strengthen collectability efforts.

If we compare UAE to Other Jurisdictions:

• • UAE vs. UK: UK has established litigation funding precedents, making duration risk lower.
  • UAE vs. US: US litigation is costly but has a well-defined process for class action and third-party funding.
  • UAE vs. Singapore: Singapore offers a structured approach similar to DIFC, making it a comparable market.

Therefore, while duration and collectability risks are slightly higher in UAE than in more mature markets, leveraging arbitration, strong due diligence, and phased funding agreements can significantly reduce risks for litigation funders.

In my opinion, Litigation funding in the Middle East is at an inflection point. Over the next decade, the region will witness increased adoption of legal financing, supported by regulatory advancements, growing market awareness, and technological integration.

Some of major trends & developments shaping the Future, are like

• • • Onshore UAE courts may introduce formal litigation funding regulations, similar to DIFC and ADGM frameworks.
    • Governments in Saudi Arabia and Qatar are exploring third-party funding regulations, expanding the regional market.

1. 1. • More law firms and corporate clients will turn to litigation funding, especially in high-value commercial disputes.
      • The construction and real estate sectors, which are prone to disputes, will see a rise in funding demand.

1. 1. • Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a key role in risk assessment, helping funders predict case outcomes with higher accuracy.
      • AI-powered analytics will enhance due diligence and underwriting processes.

1. 1. • Arbitration is expected to dominate litigation funding in the region due to faster resolution timelines and enforceability.
      • Growth of regional arbitration centers such as DIAC (Dubai

International Arbitration Centre) will further facilitate funded cases.

1. 1. • Large international litigation funders are likely to enter the Middle East, increasing competition and refining best practices.
      • Institutional investors, including hedge funds and private equity firms, will seek exposure to litigation funding as a diversified asset class.

Yes, there could be some challenges that may shape the future, like:

• • Ensuring ethical litigation funding practices to prevent frivolous lawsuits.
  • Balancing regulatory oversight with industry growth to maintain market credibility.

So, the next 5-10 years will see the Middle East, particularly the UAE, become a key hub for litigation funding. With regulatory progress, market maturity, and technological advancements, the region is poised for significant growth in third-party legal financing, offering both opportunities and challenges for funders and legal professionals alike.

Rockpoint Legal Funding has released a new educational overview on the role of pre-settlement funding for individuals involved in personal injury and other civil lawsuits. As court dockets swell and case timelines extend, plaintiffs often encounter mounting financial pressures that can influence their legal decisions. This overview examines the mechanics of pre-settlement funding, the considerations for deciding whether it is an appropriate option, and the broader context of litigation finance in the United States.

Pre-settlement funding—also known as legal funding or lawsuit advances—is a financial arrangement in which a provider offers immediate funds to plaintiffs who have an active legal claim. The advance is typically "non-recourse," which means that the plaintiff is only obligated to repay if the underlying case results in a monetary settlement or award. This structure aims to relieve short-term economic stress, such as covering medical bills or everyday living costs, without imposing the risk of personal liability if the case does not succeed.

Why Litigation Timelines Can Be Lengthy

In many jurisdictions, personal injury and other civil claims progress through multiple stages. The initial filing, discovery period, settlement negotiations, and potential trial can each introduce procedural delays. Moreover, defense counsel or insurance companies may seek extensions or engage in protracted negotiations, especially if the case is complex or involves substantial damages. These drawn-out timelines can place significant strain on plaintiffs who are juggling medical appointments, lost wages, or other unexpected expenses stemming from the incident in question.

How Non-Recourse Funding Operates

Non-recourse funding arrangements differ from traditional loans in two key ways. First, plaintiffs do not make monthly payments during the lawsuit's duration. Second, if the case concludes without a settlement or court award, the plaintiff typically owes nothing. However, if there is a successful outcome, the provider recovers its advance from the proceeds, plus any agreed-upon fees or charges. Because repayment depends on the lawsuit's success, funding companies evaluate the viability of a claim by reviewing documentation such as medical records, police reports, and legal filings. This vetting process helps determine both eligibility and the potential amount of funding offered.

Considerations for Plaintiffs

While pre-settlement funding can offer financial breathing room, it is not a universal solution for every litigant. Plaintiffs are advised to consult closely with their attorneys before deciding to move forward with an advance. An attorney can provide guidance on whether anticipated settlement amounts reasonably justify the costs associated with funding. Additionally, plaintiffs should take time to review any contract terms carefully, paying particular attention to fee structures and potential caps on interest. Regulatory requirements for transparency vary from state to state, and consumer protection advocates often encourage individuals to ask prospective funders for itemized disclosures that outline how expenses and interest accumulate over time.

Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Outcomes

For many plaintiffs, the main appeal of pre-settlement funding lies in the ability to cover urgent expenses without feeling pressured to accept a premature or undervalued settlement. Financial stress can sometimes overshadow the pursuit of a fair legal resolution. Having access to funds to pay rent, medical bills, and utility costs can enable individuals to focus more effectively on recovering from injuries and collaborating with their legal teams. At the same time, the additional fees tied to funding must be weighed against the potential difference a plaintiff might receive if they negotiate a higher settlement by waiting. Striking a balance between meeting immediate needs and preserving future gains is a critical part of the decision-making process.

Regulatory Landscape and Industry Best Practices

The legal funding industry is subject to varying degrees of oversight. Several states have enacted or proposed regulations to ensure consumer protections. In some jurisdictions, legislators have mandated clear and conspicuous disclosures regarding interest rates, fee schedules, and any other costs that might be included in the repayment obligation. These efforts aim to safeguard plaintiffs from overextending themselves financially or unknowingly entering into agreements with unfavorable terms. Reputable legal funding companies generally support transparent industry standards, seeing them as essential for maintaining trust and helping plaintiffs fully understand the implications of the agreements they sign.

Potential Impact on the Legal Process

Plaintiffs considering pre-settlement funding often wonder whether accessing an advance will change how negotiations proceed. While the presence of funding does not directly alter the defendant's or insurance company's approach, plaintiffs who relieve their short-term financial hardships may feel less pressure to settle immediately. This dynamic can sometimes allow parties to conduct more thorough investigations, secure additional expert opinions, or wait for crucial evidence to come to light. Nonetheless, case outcomes depend on numerous factors—including liability assessments, the strength of the evidence, and judicial proceedings—and not solely on whether the plaintiff has opted for a funding advance.

Addressing Myths and Misconceptions

Despite growing awareness, misconceptions about lawsuit funding persist. One common myth is that plaintiffs give up control of their case when they secure an advance. In practice, a reputable funding provider does not direct case strategy or negotiations; plaintiffs and their attorneys maintain full authority over legal decisions. Another misconception is that high rates inevitably accompany all pre-settlement advances. While some companies may impose significant fees, others strive for more balanced terms. Conducting comparative research and consulting third-party resources can help plaintiffs identify funding options that align with their specific needs.

Informing Plaintiffs and Attorneys

Through its resource materials and ongoing educational initiatives, Rockpoint Legal Funding aims to clarify how pre-settlement advances fit into the broader legal landscape. Attorneys can benefit by understanding the various funding options available to clients, enabling them to offer well-rounded advice. Meanwhile, plaintiffs gain insight into navigating what can be a confusing world of financial products and services. Informed decision-making involves not only estimating the value of a legal claim but also realistically appraising personal financial requirements and the time it may take to resolve a case.

About Rockpoint Legal Funding

Rockpoint Legal Funding provides non-recourse cash advances to plaintiffs in personal injury and other civil cases. The company's primary goal is to help individuals facing extended litigation address pressing financial concerns so they can pursue a fair legal outcome. Through transparent practices, Rockpoint endeavors to equip both plaintiffs and their attorneys with clear information, enabling them to decide whether a funding advance is appropriate for their circumstances.

For more information about Rockpoint Legal Funding, visit rockpointlegalfunding.com.

Omni Bridgeway Limited (ASX: OBL) (Omni Bridgeway, OBL) is pleased to announce  Financial Close of its Secondary Market Transaction ,which was first announced upon signing on 18 December 2024 (link). The transaction involves the establishment of Fund 9 as a continuation fund, with funds managed by Ares Management Corporation (Ares) as the capital provider. Fund 9 has acquired a number of Omni Bridgeway’s co-investment interests in its funds.

An initial payment of A$275m has been received from Ares, which has been used to fully repay OBL’s outstanding debt of A$250m and to meet transaction costs, with the balance going to OBL to fund working capital requirements.

OBL is entitled to a further upfront consideration payment to reflect the balance of value of the interests acquired by Fund 9 at the time of signing.  This is due to be received from Ares at the end of March 2025. OBL expects the total upfront proceeds to be in the range of A$310m–A$320m, subject to interim FX movements.

1H25 results webcastFollowing the release of its results for the six months to 31 December 2024, OBL will host a market briefing at 9:30am AEDT on Thursday 27 February 2025. To access this event, please register at https://webcast.openbriefing.com/obl-hyr-2025/.

Legal-Bay, the premier Pre Settlement Funding Company, announces today that they are expanding their FELA and railroad injury claims department due to an increase in railway worker personal injury claims and the recent wrongful death lawsuit filed against Norfolk Southern Railroad.

The Norfolk case was filed earlier this month on the second anniversary of the tragic East Palestine, Ohio train derailment and subsequent toxic spill where plaintiffs claim multiple lingering health issues, including seven deaths. The lawsuit also levels accusations against the EPA and CDC, alleging that neither organization carried out a proper cleanup, nor warned residents about the potential health risks, elevating fears that their sudden mysterious illnesses could progress into something more serious.

Train derailments are only one of many reasons railroad lawsuits are filed. Everyday commuters can be victims of criminal violence on subways, or be injured due to improperly maintained train cars or railway stations. Plaintiffs will normally file negligence suits against the rail line and even the city itself for failing to keep their passengers safe.

If you are a plaintiff in any type of active railroad injury litigation and need an immediate cash advance lawsuit loan against an impending lawsuit settlement, please visit Legal-Bay HERE or call toll-free at 877.571.0405.

Chris Janish, CEO, commented, "Our funding on FELA cases this year is up over 100%. Legal-Bay is putting a large focus on train accidents in light of recent national headlines. We have always been a leader in FELA cases because of our expertise and our ability to provide ample capital for the long haul on these cases."

In addition to passenger lawsuits, there has also been an increase in FELA funding requests from railway employees within recent months. Legal Bay has even launched a new website specifically built for railroad FELA claims and railroad workers. The lawsuit funding company also secured more capital for railroad workers and employees covered under the FELA Act of 1908, which provides financial relief for railroad employees seeking workers compensation for an injury sustained on the job or in the yard.

If you are (or were) a railroad worker who has filed a lawsuit because of injuries you've suffered due to no fault of your own, or if you were injured due to negligence of your rail company or supervisor, or if you were hurt on the job because of faulty equipment or unsafe working conditions, then you may qualify for legal funding.

If you are a plaintiff or attorney involved in an active FELA railroad injury lawsuit and need an immediate cash advance lawsuit loan against an impending settlement, please visit our specialized FELA website HERE or call toll-free at 877.571.0405.

While railway workers need to take a few extra steps, most everyday victims of railroad injuries can file personal injury lawsuits. Damages in railroad injury cases are in line with other personal injury settlement awards such as reimbursement for lost earnings, medical expenses, and physical as well as mental pain and suffering.

Legal-Bay has been funding train accidents for the last 15 years and focuses much of their attention to certain cities and states: New York, NY; Newark, New Jersey; Boston, Massachusetts; Philadelphia, PA; Washington, D.C.; Atlanta, GA; Nashville, TN; Chicago, IL; and Los Angeles, CA to name a few. 

They are often referred to as one of the best lawsuit loan companies out there and the best lawsuit funding provider for railroad workers, in part because the lawsuit settlement loan company offers the quickest approvals and lowest rates industry wide. Contact Legal-Bay today or visit our specialized FELA website HERE to find out why we are considered the top lawsuit money lender around.

Legal-Bay advocates for victims of railroad injuries, but they provide settlement loan funding for all types of cases including personal injury, dog bites, slip and falls, car accidents, boat accidents, motorcycle accidents, bike accidents, truck accidents, and more.

Legal-Bay provides some of the best rates and fastest approvals in the industry, less than 24-48 hours in some cases. They offer free lawsuit evaluation on your settlement amount or case value, along with no out-of-pocket expenses or upfront costs. Their settlement funding loans have helped numerous plaintiffs by providing immediate cash in advance of a lawsuit's anticipated monetary award. The non-recourse law suit loans—sometimes referred to as loans for lawsuit or loans on settlement—are risk-free, as the money doesn't need to be repaid should the recipient lose their case. Therefore, the lawsuit loans aren't really a loan, but rather a cash advance.

To learn more about Legal-Bay's funding for FELA claims, railroad worker, railway passenger personal injury lawsuits, railroad lawsuit loans, rail worker personal injury pre settlement funding, railroad employees personal injury settlement loans, or railroad worker personal injury lawsuit loan funds, please visit the company's website HERE to apply right now or call toll-free at: 877.571.0405 where friendly and helpful agents are standing by to answer your questions.