Page 48 - SLC PR REPORT - MAY 2025
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5/27/25, 3:24 PM SLC Holds Workshop On 'The Impact Of Language On Legal Drafting'
prevent ambiguity and misinterpretation. He also illustrated the differences between formal
legal language and everyday language through practical examples.
Key topics covered during the workshop included the characteristics and unique features of
Arabic legal language, such as precision, clarity, and formality. It also addressed how
drafting choices influence the meaning and interpretation of legislative provisions. Moreover,
the session highlighted common linguistic errors in legal drafting, such as redundancy and
the use of indirect expressions that may lead to ambiguity or legal loopholes. The workshop
further introduced methods for developing legal drafting skills, including the use of tools and
techniques to enhance linguistic proficiency. This involved reviewing samples of legislation
and conducting contextual analyses of different legislative drafting models.
H.E. Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar Al Muhairi, SLC Secretary General, affirmed that linguistic
precision is fundamental to effective legislative drafting, stating:“Clear legal provisions
reduce the risk of ambiguity, misinterpretation, and errors in implementation.” H.E. Al Muhairi
added:“The Impact of Language on Legal Drafting demonstrates the SLC's ongoing
commitment to strengthening legislative drafting frameworks and expanding the knowledge
base of legal professionals. The workshop aims to equip legal professionals with the
necessary tools to contribute effectively to developing a legislative system that is responsive
to present needs and future challenges.”
Mr. Al Ahmad commented:“The workshop focused on enhancing the Arabic linguistic skills of
legal professionals at the Government of Dubai and developing their ability to draft
legislation using precise and sound language aligned with legal drafting standards. It
addressed fundamental linguistic rules essential for crafting robust legal provisions that are
free from loopholes and ambiguity. The initiative aims to equip legal personnel with practical
tools to avoid common drafting mistakes and to use legal terminology accurately and
consistently. Ultimately, our goal is to support Dubai's vision for a legislative ecosystem
rooted in transparency, adaptability, and legal certainty, thereby enhancing the investment
appeal of the Emirate and driving development.”
The workshop also underscored the role of legal language as a cornerstone of any
successful legislative ecosystem and as a key tool for facilitating the effective
implementation of legislation. It highlighted the importance of precision and clarity in
legislative drafting and the need to avoid ambiguity that could lead to misinterpretation.
Mr. Al Ahmad further stressed the pivotal role of precision in using language for legislative
drafting in ensuring legal stability by fostering a unified understanding among all relevant
parties in the judicial and legal ecosystem, including judges, lawyers, and government
officials, thereby minimising conflicting interpretations. The session also highlighted the
importance of maintaining neutrality and objectivity in legislative drafting, and introduced the
distinct features of Arabic legalese as a bridge between international legislative and legal
systems and a vital means of accurately conveying the legislative intent.
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