Commercial Transactions Law amended — cheque decriminalisation — effective immediately
The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), Ministry of Economy, and Ministry of Justice have implemented amendments to the Commercial Transactions Law that decriminalise cheques without sufficient funds and allow partial payment of cheques. The changes affect all UAE businesses and individuals who issue or receive cheques.
The analysis — automated & source-checked
- Applies to
- Financial services · UAE
- What to do
- Review internal cheque issuance and collection policies. Update payment terms and dispute-resolution procedures to reflect decriminalisation of NSF cheques. Consult legal counsel on implications for existing cheque-backed transactions and credit arrangements.
The three authorities have jointly implemented amendments to the Commercial Transactions Law. Key changes include decriminalisation of cheques issued without funds (removing criminal liability for the issuer) and provisions for partial payment of cheques. These amendments represent a significant shift in UAE commercial law and reduce criminal exposure for cheque-related disputes.
Source
“The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), Ministry of Economy, and Ministry of Justice have implemented amendments to the Commercial Transactions Law that decriminalise cheques without sufficient funds and allow partial payment of cheques.”
— Central Bank of UAE, 10 Jun 2026
Source: Central Bank of UAE — official 10 Jun 2026 Read the original ↗ More from Central Bank of UAE →
Quick answers
What do I need to do?
Review internal cheque issuance and collection policies. Update payment terms and dispute-resolution procedures to reflect decriminalisation of NSF cheques. Consult legal counsel on implications for existing cheque-backed transactions and credit arrangements.
Who issued this?
Central Bank of UAE (UAE).
When was it announced?
10 Jun 2026.
Where can I read the original?
Read the original at Central Bank of UAE: https://www.centralbank.ae/en/news-and-publications/news-and-insights/press-release/the-central-bank-the-ministry-of-economy-and-the-ministry-of-justice-implement-amendments-to-the-commercial-transactions-law-regarding-decriminalisation-of-cheques-without-funds-and-partial-payment-of-the-cheque/
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