Sharjah has introduced new rules to protect people in debt from unfair imprisonment. In a progressive step aimed at preserving human dignity and upholding justice, the Sharjah Judicial Council has approved new rules regarding the imprisonment of defaulting debtors.Under these rules, no debtor will be jailed unless a proper investigation proves they can pay but are refusing intentionally to do so or hiding assets.
Previously, debt defaulters were required to stay in jail for up to three years. With this new amendment, many will have the opportunity to be released, start working, and earn money to repay their debts. A similar rule was implemented in Dubai one year ago, setting a precedent for this change in Sharjah.
This decision follows the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. It ensures those facing financial difficulties are treated fairly while preventing people from avoiding their responsibilities as civil liabilities remain.
The new rules aim to balance justice and kindness, improving Sharjah’s legal system while also maintaining accountability for those who deliberately evade their financial responsibilities. The changes reflect Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to improving its legal framework while considering both the rights of creditors and the dignity of debtors. The Judicial Council has also instructed authorities to help settle financial disputes before they go to court.
These reforms highlight Sharjah’s commitment to fairness, balancing justice with people’s well-being. They aim to ease financial burdens, promote responsible lending, and ensure that individuals and businesses can overcome financial challenges without unnecessary penalties.