{"id":143086,"date":"2026-07-10T11:10:28","date_gmt":"2026-07-10T11:10:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/?post_type=comparative_guide&#038;p=143086"},"modified":"2026-07-10T14:07:05","modified_gmt":"2026-07-10T14:07:05","slug":"saudi-arabia-litigation","status":"publish","type":"comparative_guide","link":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/chapter\/saudi-arabia-litigation\/","title":{"rendered":"Saudi Arabia: Litigation"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-143086","comparative_guide","type-comparative_guide","status-publish","hentry","guides-litigation","jurisdictions-saudi-arabia"],"acf":[],"appp":{"post_list":{"below_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Derayah LLPC \u2013 Saudilegal<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2021\/06\/saudilegal.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>"},"post_detail":{"above_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">Derayah LLPC \u2013 Saudilegal<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2021\/06\/saudilegal.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>","below_title":"<span class=\"guide-intro\">This country specific Q&amp;A provides an overview of Litigation laws and regulations applicable in Saudi Arabia<\/span><div class=\"guide-content\"><div class=\"filter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" placeholder=\"Search questions and answers...\" class=\"filter-container__search-field\">\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<ol class=\"custom-counter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the main methods of resolving disputes in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW208455052 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW208455052 BCX8\">The main method of resolving commercial disputes in Saudi Arabia is litigation. Arbitration is also becoming increasingly popular\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW208455052 BCX8\">as a result of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW208455052 BCX8\">\u00a0the Arbitration Regulation of 2012, which is based on the UNCITRAL model. Article 6 of the Commercial Courts Regulation of 2020 gives two merchants who are parties to a commercial transaction the\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW208455052 BCX8\">option<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW208455052 BCX8\">\u00a0to agree on specific procedures for dispute resolution. This opens the door, for example, for binding expert determination, which previously was not an enforceable means of dispute resolution under Saudi Arabian law.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW208455052 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the main procedural rules governing litigation in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW86373356 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW86373356 BCX8\">The main procedural rules governing commercial litigation are set out in the Commercial Courts Regulation of 2020. Statutory tribunals have their own procedural rules. Issues which are not addressed in the Commercial Courts Regulation or the procedural rules of a statutory tribunal are governed by the Civil Procedure Rules of the General Courts of 2013. Arbitrations are governed by the Arbitration Regulation of 2012.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW86373356 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the structure and organisation of local courts dealing with claims in your jurisdiction? What is the final court of appeal?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">Most types of commercial disputes come under the\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">jurisdiction<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">\u00a0of the Commercial Courts, whose decisions can be appealed to the Court of Appeal, with further, limited rights of appeal to the Supreme Court. Banking disputes are\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">adjudicated<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">\u00a0by the Committee for Banking Disputes, whose decisions can be appealed to the Appeal Committee for Banking Disputes and Violations. Securities disputes come under the\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">jurisdiction<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW156461686 BCX8\">\u00a0of the Committee for the Resolution of Securities Disputes, whose decisions can be appealed to the Appeal Committee for the Resolution of Securities Disputes. Disputes involving contracts of insurance are heard by the Committee for the Settlement of Insurance Disputes and Violations, whose decisions can be appealed to the Appeal Committee for the Settlement of Insurance Disputes and Violations.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW156461686 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How long does it typically take from commencing proceedings to get to trial in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW50890815 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50890815 BCX8\">Saudi Arabian legal proceedings take place in a series of short hearings spread over six months to two years to reach a final\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW50890815 BCX8\">judgment, but<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW50890815 BCX8\">\u00a0may take longer.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW50890815 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are hearings held in public and are documents filed at court available to the public in your jurisdiction? Are there any exceptions?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW8654039 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW8654039 BCX8\">Most procedures before the Commercial Court take place online. Physical hearings are open to the public. Under the Commercial Courts Regulation of 2020, public access to the particulars of a commercial case and the documents filed in it is possible upon payment of a fee. This is a new development, since previously all details of disputes were kept confidential. A party with an interest may apply for an order that proceedings or parts thereof are kept confidential. However, an application for inspection must state the case number, so that one cannot make a search whether proceedings involving a particular party are in progress.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW8654039 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, are the relevant limitation periods in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">Claims before the Commercial Courts, in banking disputes and in insurance disputes become time barred after five years from the date on which the right of action\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">accrued<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">, although the claimant may get an extension if they have a valid excuse. Special time bars apply in securities disputes and shipping cases. The Civil Transactions Regulation of 2023 has introduced multiple new time bars in relation to certain types of claims such as three years for general claims for harm (<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW96566800 BCX8\">darar<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">), which applies to losses resulting from breach of contract or duty, and claims for unjust enrichment and unjustified payment.\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">Under the Enforcement Regulation of 2026, which will enter into force on 23 November 2026, enforcement of a judgment or arbitration award is time barred after 10 years from it becoming due for performance, but this will only apply to judgments or arbitration awards that were issued after 23 November 2026. All t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">ime periods are calculated with reference to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW96566800 BCX8\">Hejra<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW96566800 BCX8\">\u00a0years, which are shorter than Gregorian calendar years.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW96566800 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, are the pre-action conduct requirements in your jurisdiction and what, if any, are the consequences of non-compliance?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW11011673 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW11011673 BCX8\">In most commercial cases, the claimant must give at least 15 days\u2019 notice before action, details of which must be supplied with the statement of claim. A party who has failed to give the notice before action cannot file the statement of claim. There are no pre-action requirements for proceedings before the statutory tribunals.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW11011673 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How are proceedings commenced in your jurisdiction? Is service necessary and, if so, is this done by the court (or its agent) or by the parties?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW94841357 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW94841357 BCX8\">Proceedings before the Commercial Courts are\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW94841357 BCX8\">commenced<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW94841357 BCX8\">\u00a0by filing a statement of claim electronically. The statement of claim must set out particulars of the parties and their representatives, their capacities, an exhaustive statement of the applications, and a statement of all documents relied on in the action. Service is made in most cases on the defendant\u2019s registered mobile number through the electronic Absher system. Service is usually made by the court but can also be made by the claimant.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW94841357 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How does the court determine whether it has jurisdiction over a claim in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\">Article 16 of the Commercial Courts Regulation sets out details of the disputes under the Commercial Courts\u2019\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\">jurisdiction<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\">. Likewise, the regulations governing the Committee for Banking Disputes, the Committee for the Resolution of Securities Disputes, and the Committee for the Settlement of Insurance Disputes and Violations set out each tribunal\u2019s\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\">jurisdiction<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\">. When two courts or tribunals have declined jurisdiction in a case,\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW218219862 BCX8\">the claimant can apply to the Committee for the Determination of Jurisdictional Disputes at the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, who will determine which court or tribunal must hear the case, and whose decisions cannot be appealed. Agreements to submit disputes to the courts of another jurisdiction, or to arbitration, are given effect by Saudi Arabian courts but a challenge to jurisdiction must be made before filing a defence or other motions, failing which the defendant is deemed to have submitted to the court.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW218219862 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How does the court determine which law governs the claims in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW211981662 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW211981662 BCX8\">Saudi Arabian courts apply only Saudi Arabian law, namely Islamic Law as interpreted in Saudi Arabia, and Saudi Arabian legislation. Although it is permissible for private sector parties to agree to have contracts governed by a law other than Saudi Arabian law, whenever a Saudi Arabian court or tribunal is properly seized of a dispute, the case will be decided only in accordance with Saudi Arabian law, even if a contract is expressed to be governed by the laws of a country other than Saudi Arabia. On the other hand, arbitrations in Saudi Arabia may be conducted under a law other than Saudi Arabian law, if chosen by the parties.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW211981662 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">In what circumstances, if any, can claims be disposed of without a full trial in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW262910290 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW262910290 BCX8\">The concept of summary judgment does not exist under Saudi Arabian law. Claimants can apply for certain applications to be dealt with on an expedited basis, but these must be combined with full proceedings. Claims under cheques, promissory notes and notarized contracts can be enforced without having a trial.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW262910290 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, are the main types of interim remedies available in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW239236607 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW239236607 BCX8\">Expedited applications can be made in connection with a survey for proof of status; prohibition of travel; stay of new works; judicial custodianship; preservatory attachment; obtaining a product sample; preservation of specific documents; prohibition on disposal or permitting the same; and applications having the status of urgency in commercial regulations.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW239236607 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">After a claim has been commenced, what written documents must (or can) the parties submit in your jurisdiction? What is the usual timetable?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\">The parties must\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\">submit<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\">\u00a0copies of the documents on which they wish to rely in the proceedings. There is no automatic disclosure of documents, and each party must\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\">proceed<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW26476607 BCX8\">on the basis of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26476607 BCX8\">\u00a0the documents in its possession, unless an application for specific disclosure succeeds.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW26476607 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, are the rules for disclosure of documents in your jurisdiction? Are there any exceptions (e.g. on grounds of privilege, confidentiality or public interest)?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">A party may request the other party to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">disclose<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">\u00a0documents that\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW207284900 BCX8\">are connected with<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">\u00a0the claim. Such documents\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW207284900 BCX8\">must be must be<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">\u00a0particularised by specific identity or by type; they must have a connection with the commercial\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW207284900 BCX8\">transaction, or<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">\u00a0result in a fact\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">therein<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">\u00a0being brought to light; and they must not be of a confidential character. A plea of confidentiality must be supported by reasons why the documents are confidential.\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">Failure to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">disclose<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW207284900 BCX8\">\u00a0documents as ordered by the court may be treated as circumstantial evidence by the court.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW207284900 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How is witness evidence dealt with in your jurisdiction (and in particular, do witnesses give oral and\/or written evidence and what, if any, are the rules on cross-examination)? Are depositions permitted?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">The\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">Evidence Regulation entered into force in July 2022<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">, under which t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">he evidence of the parties or their employees or agents has little probative force.\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW195382482 BCX8\">As a general rule<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">, witnesses should be independent and have no interest in the outcome of the case. This limits the extent to which\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">witness<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">\u00a0evidence is used in commercial proceedings in Saudi Arabian proceedings. When witness evidence is introduced, the court must have regard to their probity, behaviour and conduct, and the witness must\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">disclose<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">\u00a0their relationship with the parties. Witnesses may be cross-examined. An important feature of Saudi Arabian legal proceedings is the taking of an oath. If the claimant has failed to prove his case either through witnesses or documentary evidence, he may challenge the defendant to deny their liability on oath, which may also be ordered by the judge. Likewise, the defendant may in\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">certain\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW195382482 BCX8\">circumstances require the claimant to take the oath. If the party so challenged accepts and denies or affirms the claim on oath, the case is closed without further means of appeal. It is a prerequisite for the taking of an oath that the evidence is not conclusive. When the judge has formed the view that the facts of the case are proven, he must reject the application for a party to take the oath. The oath cannot be taken on behalf of juristic persons.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW195382482 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is expert evidence permitted in your jurisdiction? If so, how is it dealt with (and in particular, are experts appointed by the court or the parties, and what duties do they owe)?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW6411546 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW6411546 BCX8\">The evidence of court-appointed experts is an important feature of Saudi Arabian legal proceedings. In most cases involving technical or financial issues, or trade custom, the court will appoint an expert. An expert is appointed by the court of its own motion or on the application of a party to the litigation. Usually, the court asks both parties to each nominate three candidates, and if one name is on both parties\u2019 lists, that expert is chosen. If there is no agreement on an expert, the court will choose the expert from lists kept by the court. The expert\u2019s findings may be questioned by the parties or by the court, and it is\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW6411546 BCX8\">not uncommon<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW6411546 BCX8\">\u00a0for the process to go through several stages, with revisions to the expert\u2019s draft report. The court is free to disregard all or part of the expert\u2019s findings, but this is unusual.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW6411546 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Can final and interim decisions be appealed in your jurisdiction? If so, to which court(s) and within what timescale?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">All first-instance judgments and interim decisions of Saudi Arabian courts and tribunals, other than small claims with a value below US$ 13,350, can be appealed. The appellate courts and tribunals are listed in 3, above. The rules of all courts and tribunals require the application for an appeal from a judgment to be filed within 30 days from receipt of the written judgment. Appeals against expedited judgments or orders must be filed within 10 days from receipt of the judgment or order. Appeals are\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">very common<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">, and in most cases the appellate tribunal reviews the appeal application, the judgment and case file without further argument from the\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW175030895 BCX8\">parties, and<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">\u00a0issues a decision making\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">the judgment final and enforceable. Where the appellate tribunal considers that the application has merit, it may refer the case back to the court or tribunal of first instance, with a request to adduce\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">additional<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">\u00a0evidence or reconsider the facts\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW175030895 BCX8\">in light of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">\u00a0directions given by the appellate tribunal. In such situations, the court or tribunal of first instance usually invites further argument from the parties and issues a new judgment. We have been involved in several cases where the process was repeated three times before a final and enforceable judgment was issued. The appellate tribunal can also take over the handling of the case and make its own ruling. A final and enforceable judgment of the Court of Appeal can be appealed to the Supreme Court,\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW175030895 BCX8\">on the basis of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">\u00a0errors of law, mischaracterisation or mis-description of facts, lack of\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">jurisdiction<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">\u00a0and res judicata. An appeal to the Supreme Court does not result in a stay of enforcement. Lastly, it is possible to object to a final and enforceable judgment by way of review\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW175030895 BCX8\">on the basis of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW175030895 BCX8\">\u00a0narrow grounds such as fraud or forgery, lack of representation, and the like.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW175030895 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the rules governing enforcement of foreign judgments in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">At the time of writing, t<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">he enforcement of foreign judgments in Saudi Arabia is governed by the Enforcement Regulation of 2012,\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">but this will be superseded by the Enforcement Regulation of 2026 which will enter into force on 3<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun Superscript SCXW181302191 BCX8\" data-fontsize=\"11\">rd<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">\u00a0November 2026<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">Article 11 of\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">the 2012 Regulation and Article 9 of the 2026 Regulation\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW181302191 BCX8\">make enforcement of foreign judgments conditional on reciprocity. The only international treaties and conventions on the reciprocal enforcement of judgments to which Saudi Arabia is a party are the Arab League Treaty on the Enforcement of Judgments of 1983 and the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council Convention on the Enforcement of Judgments of 1995. Since 1992, the Saudi Arabian courts have ruled that the only judgments which are enforceable in Saudi Arabia on the basis of reciprocity are judgments of countries who (a) are party to a treaty or convention for the reciprocal enforcement of judgments to which Saudi Arabia is also a party, or (b) whose authorities would give executive force to judgments of the courts of Saudi Arabia without the requirement of instituting an action on the judgment. Specific cases dismissed applications to enforce judgments issued in the United Kingdom and the USA, most recently in 2018.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW181302191 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Can the costs of litigation (e.g. court costs, as well as the parties\u2019 costs of instructing lawyers, experts and other professionals) be recovered from the other side in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW184486234 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW184486234 BCX8\">Under a Regulation that entered into force in March 2022, court fees have become payable for the first time in Saudi Arabia. The fees are calculated on a downward sliding scale from 5% to 3% for claims up to SAR 1 million (US$ 266,668), and at 2% of claims from SAR 1 million to SAR 50 million (US$ 13,333,333), with a flat charge of US$ 266,668 for claims above SAR 50 million. These fees must be borne by the losing party. Courts and tribunals can award attorney fees and other costs to a successful litigant, in their discretion. Factors which may be taken into consideration include the amount of the award and whether the defendant has delayed the proceedings unnecessarily.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW184486234 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, are the collective redress (e.g. class action) mechanisms in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">Class action<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">\u00a0were first introduced in 2017 before the Committee for the Resolution of Securities Disputes. The Commercial Courts Regulation of 2020 has introduced class actions in commercial disputes. A class action before the Commercial Court requires not less than ten claimants with the same claim and cause, and against the same defendant. The claimants must be represented by the same\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW1253586 BCX8\">advocate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">\u00a0and the claims must be\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">consolidated<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">\u00a0into a single statement of claim. It is possible to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">consolidate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1253586 BCX8\">\u00a0claims with an ongoing class action. Before a class action proceeds to trial, a settlement offer must be made to, and considered by, the claimants.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW1253586 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, are the mechanisms for joining third parties to ongoing proceedings and\/or consolidating two sets of proceedings in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW123093089 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW123093089 BCX8\">Other than in class actions, there are no mechanisms to join parties to ongoing proceedings or to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW123093089 BCX8\">consolidate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW123093089 BCX8\">\u00a0two sets of proceedings.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW123093089 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are third parties allowed to fund litigation in your jurisdiction? If so, are there any restrictions on this and can third party funders be made liable for the costs incurred by the other side?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW200631251 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW200631251 BCX8\">There are no rules prohibiting third party funding of litigation. There is no requirement to\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW200631251 BCX8\">disclose<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW200631251 BCX8\">\u00a0who funds litigation. Third party funders cannot be made liable for the costs incurred by a party.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW200631251 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the main advantage and the main disadvantage of litigating international commercial disputes in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\">Saudi Arabian courts and judicial tribunals may not award judgment interest, nor can they issue judgments in respect of interest. The Civil Transactions Regulation of 2023 has removed several shortcomings of the Saudi Arabian legal system. For example, until now Saudi Arabian courts have not awarded damages for loss of\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\">anticipated<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\">\u00a0profit, loss of business opportunity or loss of reputation, but this changed when the new Regulation entered into force on 20<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\">December 2023. Another advantage of the Saudi Arabian system is that the cost of litigating uncomplicated claims has gone down considerably\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW197828049 BCX8\">as a result of<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197828049 BCX8\">\u00a0proceedings being conducted online.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW197828049 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the most likely growth area for commercial disputes in your jurisdiction for the next 5 years?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW104677516 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104677516 BCX8\">The Civil Transactions Regulation of 2023 has made it possible to bring claims which could not be brought until now, such as loss of profit claims. Also, vicarious liability has been expanded. Therefore, we may see an increase in commercial disputes\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104677516 BCX8\">generally in<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104677516 BCX8\">\u00a0areas where bringing such claims were not previously\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104677516 BCX8\">feasible<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104677516 BCX8\">.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW104677516 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What, if any, will be the impact of technology on commercial litigation in your jurisdiction in the next 5 years?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW31153884 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW31153884 BCX8\">Saudi Arabia already has made a successful transition to electronic dispute resolution services. Most glitches in the system have been eliminated already, and one can be confident that the system will become more efficient through continued use.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW31153884 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n<div class=\"word-count-hidden\" style=\"display:none;\">Estimated word count: <span class=\"word-count\">4461<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/twentyseventeen\/src\/jquery\/components\/filter-guides.js\" async><\/script><\/div>"}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide\/143086","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/comparative_guide"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=143086"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}