DCC 67/2009, 68/2009

This case involved a television presenter who was encouraged to leave her position with one broadcaster to work with another on a similar programme. Damages were claimed against the presenter and other company. The company had failed to present evidence that its competitor had pressured the presenter to switch channels. It was also stated the amount of damages exceeded what was listed in the law.

Background

A company filed a case against another company and an employee and requested the court to order them to jointly pay 20000000 AED in compensation and annual interest. The company stated it worked in the media field and the employee had formerly worked with them until she had resigned on 16/09/2006. The company stated the defendant company had persuaded the employee to resign and she then worked as a presenter in TV programme similar to one aired by the first company which caused them damage.

The court rejected the case.

The company appealed the ruling before the court of appeal. The court ruled that the presenter should pay the company 6.150.920 AED and annual interest of 9% but rejected the case against the defendant company.

Decision