What compensation am I entitled to if my flight is cancelled by the airline?

Your rights depend on the applicable law. Under the Montreal Convention for international flights, you are entitled to a refund or re-routing and compensation for documented losses. Under UAE GCAA regulations, airlines must also provide minimum passenger protection standards, including meals, accommodation, and communication during lengthy delays.

Aviation Lawyer in Dubai, UAE

Q: My luggage was lost on a flight through Dubai. Can I claim?

Yes. Report the loss at the airport and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Under the Montreal Convention, an airline has 21 days to locate baggage before it is considered lost. Liability is typically capped at approximately SDR 1,131 per passenger unless a special declaration of value was made at check-in.

Aviation Lawyers in Dubai — GCAA, Passenger Rights & Liability

Dubai is one of the world’s most important aviation hubs, home to Emirates and flydubai and served by one of the highest volumes of international passenger traffic of any city on earth. Where there is aviation activity at this scale, there are inevitably legal disputes — covering passenger rights, airline liability, aircraft leasing, cargo claims, and regulatory enforcement.

Hessa Al Hammadi Advocates provides specialist aviation law advice in the UAE, covering passenger and cargo claims, airline regulatory matters, aircraft-related commercial disputes, and GCAA (General Civil Aviation Authority) proceedings.

ome to Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia — and two of the world’s highest-traffic airports — the UAE sits at the centre of global aviation. Aviation law here is a specialist discipline governed by the Chicago Convention, the Montreal Convention 1999, UAE GCAA regulations, and bilateral air service agreements. Our aviation law team in Dubai represents airlines, aircraft operators, aviation businesses, and individual passengers — from regulatory compliance and aircraft leasing disputes through to accident liability claims and passenger rights enforcement.

Aviation Law Services

Airline Liability Claims

Pursuing and defending compensation claims for flight delays, cancellations, denied boarding, baggage damage/loss, and passenger injury under the Montreal Convention.

Aviation Contracts

Drafting and reviewing aircraft purchase and leasing agreements (AOG, ACMI), MRO contracts, handling agreements, code-share arrangements, and GSA agreements.

GCAA Regulatory Compliance

Advising airlines, operators, and aviation businesses on UAE GCAA requirements, air operator certificates, dangerous goods regulations, and aviation safety compliance.

Accident & Incident Claims

Legal representation for passengers, families, and operators in aviation accident investigations, liability claims, and aviation insurance disputes.

Passenger Rights Enforcement

Enforcing UAE and international passenger rights for denied boarding, lengthy delays, flight cancellations, and mishandled baggage — against UAE and foreign carriers.

Commercial Aviation Disputes

Resolving disputes between airlines, aircraft lessors, MRO providers, ground handlers, and airport authorities through negotiation, arbitration, or litigation.

What Is Aviation Law Under UAE Jurisdiction?

Federal Law No. 20 of 1991 — UAE Civil Aviation Law (as amended), the primary legislation governing civil aviation in the UAE
GCAA — General Civil Aviation Authority: the UAE’s national aviation regulator, issuing Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) governing airlines, airports, personnel, and safety
Montreal Convention 1999 (ratified by the UAE): governs international passenger and cargo liability on international flights
Warsaw Convention (as amended): still applicable to some older bilateral air transport agreements
Dubai Aviation City Corporation regulations — governing Dubai World Central and related aviation free zone activities
DCAA — Dubai Civil Aviation Authority: regulates Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International

Aviation Lawyer Dubai | N H Al Hammadi Advocates

UAE Aviation Finance

Aircraft Leasing in the UAE

The UAE — particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi — is a significant centre for aircraft leasing and aviation finance. Aircraft leasing disputes raise specialist issues and we advise airlines, lessors, and financiers on the legal aspects of aircraft leasing transactions and disputes under both UAE law and the governing law of the relevant lease agreement.

Cape Town Convention protections for lessors
Governing law and jurisdiction clause advice
Aircraft repossession procedures in the UAE
Maintenance reserve and redelivery disputes
Security interests and aviation financing structures

Who We Advise

Aircraft Leasing & Finance

Airlines and aircraft operators on lease negotiations and disputes
Lessors and leasing companies on Cape Town Convention protections and repossession
Aviation financiers and banks on security interests over aircraft
Insurance companies on aviation hull and liability coverage matters
Maintenance providers on MRO agreement disputes
Investors and funds entering UAE aviation finance transactions

Common Questions

Aviation Law FAQs

Answers to the most common questions about passenger rights, airline liability, and UAE aviation regulations.

What compensation am I entitled to if my flight is cancelled?

Your rights depend on the applicable law. On international flights governed by the Montreal Convention, you are entitled to a refund (or re-routing at no extra cost) and compensation for documented losses caused by the cancellation. Under UAE GCAA regulations, airlines operating in the UAE must also comply with minimum passenger protection standards including meals, accommodation, and communication facilities during lengthy delays. We assess your specific case and the applicable regime.

My luggage was lost on a flight through Dubai. Can I claim?

Yes. For international flights, the Montreal Convention applies. Report the loss immediately to the airline’s baggage service desk before leaving the airport and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Airlines have 21 days to locate delayed baggage before it is treated as lost. Under the Montreal Convention, the airline’s liability is capped at approximately SDR 1,131 per passenger unless you made a special declaration of value at check-in. We assist with claims, including for high-value items.

Can I claim for injuries suffered during a flight?

Yes. Under Article 17 of the Montreal Convention, airlines are strictly liable for personal injury or death caused by an accident on board or during boarding/disembarkation, up to SDR 128,821. For claims above this threshold, the airline must prove it was not negligent to limit its liability. We represent passengers in personal injury claims against airlines through UAE courts and, where appropriate, foreign courts.

What is the GCAA and what powers does it have?

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is the UAE’s federal aviation regulator, established by Federal Law No. 4 of 1996. It licenses airlines, airports, and aviation personnel; issues Civil Aviation Regulations; investigates accidents and incidents; and has enforcement powers including suspension of licences. We represent individuals and companies in GCAA regulatory proceedings and enforcement actions.

Are drones (UAVs) regulated in the UAE?

Yes. The GCAA regulates drones under its Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) regulations (CAR-RPAS). Drone operators must register their aircraft, obtain operational permits for most activities, and comply with strict no-fly zones, altitude limits, and operational restrictions. We advise on GCAA drone compliance and represent clients in enforcement proceedings following drone incidents.

Which courts handle aviation disputes in the UAE?

Aviation disputes in the UAE can be heard before Dubai Courts, Abu Dhabi Courts, the DIFC Courts, or ADGM Courts depending on the governing law and jurisdiction clause in the relevant agreement. Arbitration is also frequently used — particularly DIAC and ICC arbitration. We are licensed to appear before all UAE courts and represent clients in international arbitration proceedings.

Speak to an Aviation Lawyer Today

Whether you are a passenger with a claim or an airline, lessor, or operator facing a dispute — our aviation law team is ready to assist.

Book A Consultation +971 50 211 6931

Other Services

Litigation

Resolve legal disputes effectively with our trusted litigation services in the UAE. Our experienced team specializes in civil, commercial, real estate, employment, and corporate litigation, providing strategic representation tailored to your needs. We navigate the complexities of UAE federal laws, DIFC courts, and arbitration proceedings to secure favorable outcomes.

Arbitration

Simplify dispute resolution with our expert arbitration services in the UAE. Our skilled legal team specializes in handling domestic and international arbitration cases across industries, including construction, real estate, commercial, and corporate disputes.

Legal Consultation

Navigate UAE’s complex legal framework with confidence through our professional legal consultation services. Our experienced team provides tailored advice on civil, corporate, real estate, employment, and family law, ensuring full compliance with UAE regulations.

Construction Law

With requirements for Construction Lawyer in UAE complex construction projects that involve several parties, contracts, and rules are not uncommon.

Family Law

At our law consultants in Dubai, we know that legal issues involving family can be very emotional and hard to deal with. No matter if you need help with divorce, child custody, spousal support, or something else related to family law, our team of experienced in Family lawyers in Dubai.

Labor law

Corporate activity, more than in other jurisdictions, underpins every facet of commercial life in the UAE. We offer practical and effective advice covering all kinds of corporate and commercial matters and support most aspects of what a business requires through its lifecycle.

Rental disputes

Facing a rental dispute? Our expert team offers comprehensive legal assistance to landlords and tenants. We handle issues like lease agreements, evictions, rent arrears, and property damage. Trust us to provide clear guidance and effective resolution to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today for professional support in rental disputes.

Criminal law

Facing criminal charges is a daunting experience that requires expert legal guidance. Our team of seasoned criminal lawyers offers comprehensive support and representation for a wide range of offenses. We work diligently to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Trust us to navigate the complexities of criminal law with dedication and expertise.

Civil Law

Navigate the complexities of UAE civil law with confidence. Our expert legal team specializes in contract disputes, property settlements, debt recovery, and employment issues, ensuring compliance with the UAE's legal framework. With extensive experience in federal laws, Dubai-specific regulations, and DIFC proceedings, we provide tailored solutions to safeguard your rights.

Real Estate Law

Secure your investments with trusted guidance in UAE real estate law. Our specialized legal team assists with property transactions, lease agreements, developer disputes, and regulatory compliance. Navigate RERA regulations, freehold property laws, and off-plan project disputes with confidence. Whether you're buying, selling, or leasing, we ensure smooth processes and protect your rights.

Commercial Law

Navigate the dynamic business landscape of the UAE with expert commercial law services. Our team specializes in company formation, contract drafting, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and dispute resolution. Whether you're dealing with UAE Federal Law, DIFC regulations, or free zone requirements, we ensure your business operates smoothly and in full compliance.

Cyber Crime

Protect your digital rights with expert legal support. We handle cybercrime cases such as online fraud, defamation, hacking, and identity theft, offering swift, confidential, and personalized guidance to individuals and businesses in today’s digital landscape.

Cryptocurrency Disputes

Expert legal support for cryptocurrency disputes, including fraud, asset recovery, and contract breaches. We help protect your digital assets with clear strategies tailored to the evolving world of virtual currencies and blockchain.