Force Majeure
Force majeure is a contractual clause that excuses a party from liability if unforeseen events beyond their control prevent contractual performance. In the UAE, force majeure events—such as natural disasters, wars, pandemics, or government-imposed restrictions—are recognized under Federal Law No. 5 of 1985 (UAE Civil Transactions Law). However, not all disruptions qualify, and courts assess whether the event genuinely made contract fulfillment impossible. In commercial contracts, force majeure provisions must be clearly defined to ensure enforceability, and parties may still be required to take reasonable steps to mitigate the impact of the event.
