'A just judge': Chief Justice of Dubai court dies at 76

Tributes have been paid to Chief Justice of Dubai Cassation Court, Dr Ali Ibrahim Al Imam

Dr Ali Ibrahim Al Imam has been honoured for his dedication to the judicial system following his death at the age of 76.  

A leading judge on Dubai's highest court has been hailed for his "remarkable achievements" after his death at the age of 76.

Chief Justice of Dubai Cassation Court Dr Ali Ibrahim Al Imam died on November 9 after 30 years of service to the emirate's justice system.

A graduate of George Washington University in 1982, Dr Al Imam rose through the ranks in his native Sudan, acting as a supreme court judge and president of the Sudanese Courts Administration.

He began dispensing justice in Dubai in 1988, when he was named among a panel of judges chosen to oversee the formation of the cassation court.

On February 8, 2010, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, issued a decree appointing Dr Al Imam as chief justice of the cessation court.

He continued to carry out his duties despite requiring kidney dialysis for the last two years of his life.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, led the condolences for the influential figure on Sunday.

Director of Dubai Courts Taresh Al Mansouri praised Dr Al Imam for his knowledge, dedication and immense contributions.
"He played a prominent role in Dubai courts and has become a model for a just judge," he said.

“He was one of those people who leave behind an unforgettable mark. His remarkable achievements, efforts, and legacy will undoubtedly live on.

“Al Imam was professional, honest, tolerant, and a well-educated scholar. A man of modesty and a good interlocutor who had the ability to influence.”

The cassation court reviews legal procedures undertaken by both lower criminal and appeal courts. Should an error be found, the case will be referred back to either the criminal or appeal court to be heard by a new panel of judges.

The court of cessation is the third and highest degree of litigation in the judicial system of Dubai.

Each circuit of the cassation court is formed by a minimum of four judges and one presiding judge, and the circuits hear challenges filed on criminal, personal, labour, commercial and civil-rights verdicts.