SFAI Cancellation Policy

Effective Date: October 2025
Applies to: Consultancy Services, AI Maturity Scan, and Masterclasses

1. Purpose and Scope

This policy defines the terms under which SFAI Consultancy Ltd (DIFC License No. 10861) and SFAI Sales Ltd (UK) manage cancellations across all services.
Its objective is to provide clients with clear, fair, and transparent conditions for modifying or cancelling their engagements while maintaining the integrity of SFAI’s operational commitments and professional standards.

The policy aligns with Articles 54 to 60 of the DIFC Contract Law No. 6 of 2004, Articles 386 to 390 of the UAE Civil Code, and Article 103 of the UAE Consumer Protection Law No. 15 of 2020.

2. Consultancy Services

SFAI’s consultancy work is highly tailored, requiring significant planning, resource allocation, and pre-engagement preparation before project commencement.

Although much of this preparatory effort is complimentary, it represents valuable professional time and intellectual input.

If a client cancels a consultancy engagement after signing but before official project kick-off, SFAI will issue a pro-rata refund for unperformed work after deducting any documented hours, planning activities, or administrative expenses already incurred. This ensures that both parties are treated equitably and that pre-engagement costs are recognised.

Once a project has begun, cancellation is not permitted except under exceptional circumstances and by written agreement. In all cases, SFAI will act reasonably and in good faith, consistent with Article 57 of the DIFC Contract Law, which requires services to be delivered and terminated with due care and fairness.

If a client requests cancellation due to unforeseen events or changes in strategic direction, SFAI may, at its discretion, offer a project credit or deferment toward a future engagement of equivalent scope.

3. AI Maturity Scan

The AI Maturity Scan is a one-time digital service that begins as soon as client data is received and automated analysis is initiated.
Because of the proprietary nature of the process and the immediate allocation of analytical resources, cancellations are only accepted under the following conditions:

Cooling-off Period: Clients may cancel within 24 hours of booking or payment. The booking fee, which covers initial administrative and data-integration costs, is non-refundable.
After Initiation: Once data collection or scan processing has begun, cancellation is not possible except under exceptional circumstances, such as a clear technical fault or verified error not attributable to the client.
Exceptional Requests: In rare cases, clients may submit a written cancellation request with supporting justification. SFAI’s management will review such requests on a case-by-case basis, applying the principles of fairness and good faith set out under Articles 56 and 60 of the DIFC Contract Law.

These provisions balance fairness for clients with the practical realities of a data-driven analytical service.

4. Masterclasses and Corporate Training

SFAI’s masterclasses are carefully designed learning experiences with limited seating and fixed operational costs. Each session requires early venue booking, trainer scheduling, and material preparation, all of which commence well in advance of the event date.

Participant Cancellations:

More than 14 days before the scheduled class: 100 percent credit or refund
7 to 14 days before the class: 50 percent credit or refund
Less than 7 days before the class: non-refundable

Credits may be used toward another class or corporate session within six months of the original booking. This approach provides flexibility for clients while ensuring operational costs are respected.

Cancellations by SFAI:
If SFAI cancels or reschedules a class due to instructor illness, insufficient enrollment, or other valid reasons, participants will be offered an alternative date or equivalent session. If rescheduling is not possible, a full refund or credit will be issued within thirty days in accordance with Article 86 of the UAE Civil Code.

Online Classes and Digital Content:
For virtual masterclasses, once login access, course materials, or digital links are provided, the service is considered delivered. Refunds are not available except in cases of verified technical failure attributable to SFAI’s systems, in line with Article 103 of the UAE Consumer Protection Law.
If such a failure occurs, SFAI will offer a replacement session or proportionate credit as appropriate.

5. Force Majeure and Fair Conduct

If either party is unable to perform its obligations due to a force majeure event, as defined in Article 82 of the UAE Civil Code, performance will be suspended for the duration of the event. Examples include natural disasters, government restrictions, major system outages, or public emergencies.
If such disruption extends beyond thirty days, either party may terminate the affected engagement without penalty, and SFAI will refund or credit the client for any unperformed portion of the service.

Throughout all engagements, SFAI acts in good faith, with an emphasis on professionalism, flexibility, and fairness. Clients are encouraged to communicate early if circumstances arise that may affect their participation or project timeline.