CBUAE and Dubai Public Prosecution to accelerate blood money settlement

A new, innovative electronic system to streamline the settlement of blood money claims has been launched with an objective to enhance service quality, protect consumers, and advance operational performance across the insurance sector and law enforcement entities in the UAE.

This was announced by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates (CBUAE) and the Dubai Public Prosecution (DPP), aligning with the vision of the UAE government in automating procedures and achieving ‘Zero Bureaucracy’ programme.

‘Blood money’, or ‘Diya’ is a Sharia-based compensation paid to a victim’s family for death or injury. It is typically around AED200,000 (US$54,450) and aims to provide support for the family and prevent further feuds. The payment, which is ordered by the court, can exceed the amount, and is usually paid by the insurance or the perpetrator, as determined by the court.

The new system enables electronic integration between the DPP and licensed insurance companies through the CBUAE’s digital platform. It will ensure seamless settlement of blood money claims and strengthen coordination between the CBUAE, insurance companies, and DPP.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the CBUAE and DPP. It was signed by Fatma Abdullah Aljabri, Assistant Governor for Financial Crime, Market Conduct and Consumer Protection, and Counselor Salah Boufrousha Alfalasi, Senior Advocate General and Head of the Traffic Prosecution in Dubai, in the presence of Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE, and Essam Issa Alhumaidan, Attorney-General of Dubai.

Fatma Abdullah Aljabri commented: “The electronic system for settling blood money claims reflects the CBUAE’s commitment to digital transformation and the development of financial services, in line with the objectives of eliminating bureaucracy in the financial sector.

“This, in turn, contributes to enhancing confidence in the financial system, protects consumers, and strengthens regulatory oversight on the licensed insurance companies, while supporting the operational efficiency in both the financial and judicial sectors of the UAE.”

Counselor Salah Boufrousha Alfalasi added: “This project represents a successful model of cooperation between the financial and judicial entities and lays solid foundation to accelerate procedures and develop the blood money settlement matrix through advanced digital solutions that enhance efficiency within the judicial and financial systems of the state.”