A growing number of UAE residents are relying on Estafser, a smart legal inquiry platform, to quickly verify travel bans, pending legal matters, financial claims, and other administrative issues without the need to physically visit government offices.
During the first quarter of 2025, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) processed 6,292 electronic inquiries through Estafser, demonstrating the platform’s growing role in helping residents avoid sudden travel complications at border control.
Meaning “Ask” in Arabic, Estafser is a round-the-clock digital service accessible through the ADJD’s official website and mobile app. It offers a fast, secure way to access personal legal information, including updates from the Public Prosecution and related authorities.
Key Features of Estafser:
- Instantly check for travel bans, court cases, or financial disputes
- Submit inquiries in Arabic, English, or Urdu
- Receive alerts via SMS, email, or app notifications
- Access results directly within the user’s secure online profile
- Eliminate the need for physical paperwork or government office visits
The ADJD revealed that 97% of inquiries were resolved within one working day, with 99% receiving responses within three days, reflecting the department’s commitment to efficient, transparent, and responsive service.
Although not a new initiative, Estafser’s growing usage illustrates the UAE’s broader shift toward digitized, paperless governance. The platform aligns with global standards for smart government services, emphasizing user convenience and real-time access to legal information.
Automated Travel Ban Removal
In a major procedural update, the UAE’s Ministry of Justice confirmed last year that travel bans are now lifted automatically once related legal issues are resolved—doing away with the previous lengthy nine-step process. This means that restrictions can be cleared within minutes without submitting separate applications.
Additionally, Dubai Police offers a similar digital service on its app and website for cases involving financial disputes. Other federal and local departments also maintain online portals to help residents monitor their legal status across various jurisdictions.
