Lesion (ghabn)In Arabic: الغبن

Definition

Lesion (ghabn) is a gap, beyond what is customary, between what a party gives and what that party receives. On its own it does not void the contract except in the cases the law names.

How it varies across the GCC

In Saudi Arabia a contract is not voided for lesion alone except in the property of a person lacking capacity or with diminished capacity, and where a specific text so provides. What counts as lesion is taken from custom (Civil Transactions Law, article 69). In Bahrain lesion is gross if it exceeds one fifth (Civil Code, article 99).

The rules that apply to a specific matter depend on the state, any free zone involved and the current text of the law, so check the official source before relying on them.

Sources

Official texts for the points on this page. General information, not legal advice. An article number is cited only where it was verified.

1. Saudi Civil Transactions Law, art. 69https://laws.boe.gov.sa/BoeLaws/Laws/LawDetails/655fdb42-8c96-422b-b8c4-b04f0095c94c/1
2. Bahrain Civil Code, Decree-Law No. 19 of 2001, art. 99https://www.lloc.gov.bh/Legislation/HTM/L1901