Director’s Welcome

Welcome to the Sharjah Center for Innovation in Legal and Judicial Studies

Driven by the forward-looking initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, may God protect him, the Emirate of Sharjah is demonstrating a growing commitment from its leadership to fostering innovation, digital transformation, and the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies. This commitment is evident through strategic initiatives such as training thousands of government employees in artificial intelligence, a program to accelerate the readiness of government entities to adopt these technologies, and active participation in global exhibitions like GITEX to showcase the latest digital innovations. Furthermore, partnerships with technology companies support digital transformation and empowering startups, all of which reflect the Emirate’s vision for building a sustainable and innovative digital future.

The decision by the Board of Trustees of the University of Sharjah, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, may God protect him, to establish the “Sharjah Center for Innovation in Legal and Judicial Studies” within the Research Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences, is a natural extension of Sharjah’s increasing focus on promoting innovation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence. This decision reflects the Emirate’s drive to localize knowledge and develop the research infrastructure in vital fields such as law and judiciary.

I invite you to learn more about the Center and participate in its ambitious journey. Our goal is to enhance research and innovation by linking academic research with digital transformation and employing modern technologies to develop the legal and judicial system. This will contribute to supporting Sharjah’s vision of building an advanced knowledge society that keeps pace with global technological changes and enhances the quality and efficiency of institutional and legal work.

 

 

 

Dr. Nashwa Ahmed Mohamed
Director, Sharjah Center for Innovation in Legal and Judicial Studies

 

Rationale for Establishing the Center 

Emiri Decree Establishing the Judicial Council in the Emirate of Sharjah

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, issued an Emiri Decree establishing the Judicial Council in the Emirate of Sharjah, headed by Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

• The establishment of the Sharjah Innovation Center for Judicial and Legal Studies (SIC-LJS) is closely aligned with the visionary initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, which: Emphasize fostering legal innovation and enhancing judicial practices in Sharjah. Provide decision-makers with scientifically sound information and recommendations.
• The Center promotes multidisciplinary research: SIC-LJS  will conduct collaborative research that combines insights from law, computer science, ethics, and related fields.

• The center builds on the experience and expertise of the RIHSS, consisting of experts in economics, law, media, sociology, education and Islamic studies, and public policy

• The UOS has an outstanding track record in partnerships with several institutions in the UAE.
• Currently, there are a few centers in the Arab region in Legal and Judicial, but their knowledge is limited in scope.
• To serve our community, as well as other stakeholders across the University of Sharjah, the UAE, and GCC in collaboration with the In partnership with the Judicial Council at the Emirate of Sharjah.
• The Sharjah Innovation Center for Judicial and Legal Studies is dedicated to advancing research and innovation at the intersection of technology and the legal field.

 

Vision

To lead local and regional research on judicial and legal areas, advancing the use of AI and technology, and its applications in the legal sectors to drive innovation, achieve institutional excellence, and enhance the judicial field.

Mission

• Providing a platform for individuals in the UAE and the region to measure and analyze recent trends and behaviors.
• The Center is committed to improving the practices of survey research, enhancing public opinion polling.
• Supporting governmental and non-governmental institutions in making decisions by measuring public opinion and conducting polls in diverse fields. 

Objectives

• Research-Driven Innovation:

  Conducting impactful research to develop evidence-based solutions for legal and judicial challenges faced by communities and institutions.

• Leadership in Legal System Development:

  Positioning itself at the forefront of advancing judicial and legal frameworks on both regional and global scales

• Assisting in Digital Transformation:

  supporting research that promotes the integration of digital technologies to modernize legal processes.

• Innovation in the Legal Field:

  Fostering innovative approaches to address contemporary legal challenges.

• Enhancing Justice:

  Improving the accessibility, efficiency, and fairness of the justice system.

• Sustainable Development:

  Contributing to the broader goals of sustainable development through research in legal advancements

•  Digital Justice:

  Conduct research on laws and strategies for adopting digital technologies in judicial systems.

•  AI in Law:

  Conduct research on AI applications to improve case management, legal research, and predictive analytics.

•  Cybercrime Research:

  Conduct research on information security and methods to counter cybercrimes, including data breaches, identity theft, and fraud.

• Future Legislation: 

  Conduct research on legal frameworks for emerging technologies such as blockchain, IoT, and autonomous systems.

•  Smart Dispute Resolution:

  Conduct research to develop technology-driven models for efficient and accessible electronic dispute resolution.

• Legality of using AI in Law: 

  Conduct research on the legal and ethical implications of integrating AI into judicial and legal systems. This includes examining accountability for AI decisions, regulatory frameworks for AI tools, and ensuring compliance with international legal standards.

 

Civil Liability in the Context of Artificial Intelligence Applications

• Liability for damages resulting from using AI in various fields (e.g., healthcare, transportation...etc). 

Dispute Settlement in the Context of Artificial Intelligence Applications

• The use of artificial intelligence tools in the operations of regular courts.
• The use of artificial intelligence technologies in managing alternative dispute resolution processes.

AI and International Law

• Impact of AI on the Rules of International Responsibility. 
• Role of AI in Protecting and Promoting Human Rights.
• Restrictions on AI Use during Armed Conflicts.

Criminal Law in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Path Forward

• AI in Crime Prevention and Investigation.
• Ethical and Legal Issues in AI Surveillance Technologies
• AI’s role in forensic analysis and digital evidence gathering.

Future of Administrative Law in an AI-Driven World

• Developing ethical guidelines for AI in public administration.
• Training administrators and lawyers to understand and oversee AI systems.

 

 

Coming Soon