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Practice areas Corporate · 06

Commercial Arbitration

Where contracts specify arbitration, we represent clients through the full proceeding — domestic or international — protecting the commercial terms both parties agreed to.

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Overview

Private resolution, full representation

Many commercial contracts in the UAE specify arbitration rather than litigation as the dispute resolution mechanism — often before bodies such as the DIFC-LCIA or DIAC. Arbitration offers a private, typically faster process than the public court system.

Representation in arbitration requires both technical legal skill and familiarity with the specific tribunal's rules and procedures, from the initial request for arbitration through to award enforcement.

We represent clients on both sides of arbitration proceedings — as claimant or respondent — and also advise on arbitration clause drafting before disputes arise, so contracts are protected from the outset.

Who this is for

Three situations we see most often.

01

Parties to a Commercial Contract Dispute

A contract with an arbitration clause has led to a disagreement.

02

Businesses Drafting New Contracts

An arbitration clause needs to be drafted or reviewed before signing.

03

Award Enforcement Needs

An arbitral award has been issued and needs to be enforced in the UAE.

How we work

From filing to enforcement.

  1. 01

    Case Assessment

    Review of the contract, arbitration clause, and dispute merits.

  2. 02

    Request for Arbitration

    Formal filing with the relevant tribunal (DIFC-LCIA, DIAC, or other).

  3. 03

    Proceedings

    Representation through hearings, submissions, and evidence.

  4. 04

    Award & Enforcement

    Securing and, where needed, enforcing the final arbitral award.

FAQ

What clients ask us first.

Is arbitration faster than going to court?

Typically yes, though timelines vary by tribunal and case complexity — most proceedings resolve within 6 to 18 months.

Can an arbitral award be enforced in the UAE?

Yes, the UAE is a party to the New York Convention, which supports enforcement of foreign arbitral awards.

What if my contract doesn't specify a tribunal?

We can advise on the applicable framework and appropriate forum based on the contract terms and dispute nature.

Should I have a lawyer review my arbitration clause before signing a contract?

Strongly recommended — a poorly drafted clause can create costly ambiguity if a dispute arises later.

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