DIAC arbitration

DIAC arbitration

The Dubai International Arbitration Centre was established by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Dubai Chamber) in 1994 as the Centre for Commercial Conciliation and Arbitration.

Decree No (34) of 2021 reorganised the DIAC. It outlines its objectives,

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Latest Arbitration News

Anti-arbitration injunctions against late fraud challenges to awards (G v CNG)

Arbitration analysis: In G v CNG, Madam Justice Mimmie Chan granted an anti‑arbitration injunction (AAI) restraining CNG from pursuing a new HKIAC arbitration (HKIAC/25187, the ‘25187 Arbitration’). In the 25187 Arbitration, CNG sought to (i) rescind the SPA/SHA (defined below) underlying the parties’ Hong Kong‑seated Original Arbitration (defined below) and (ii) avoid or set aside earlier partial final awards and restrain their enforcement, relying on newly alleged bribery and fraud claims. Her Ladyship also dismissed CNG’s stay summonses seeking to stay execution of Hong Kong enforcement orders granting leave to enforce Partial Final Award 1 (PFA1) and Partial Final Award 3 (PFA3). The decision upholds the finality of arbitral awards. It reaffirms that section 81 Arbitration Ordinance (Cap. 609) (AO) provides the exclusive recourse against a Hong Kong‑seated award. The three‑month statutory limit to set aside an award is absolute, even if fraud is allegedly discovered after the deadline. Consequently, attempts to circumvent this regime by re‑casting a late challenge as a fresh arbitration were condemned as an impermissible collateral attack and an abuse of process. Written by Min Li, partner, Reed Smith Richards Butler LLP; Max Lam, associate, Reed Smith Richards Butler LLP.

Draft reform—Germany moves to modernise its arbitration framework

Arbitration analysis: Germany’s Federal Ministry of Justice has published a draft bill proposing the first comprehensive reform of the arbitration provisions in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) since 1998. The amendments modernise form requirements for arbitration agreements, codify virtual hearings and electronic award, recognise dissenting opinions, and facilitate publication of awards and court decisions. They also strengthen the enforcement of foreign interim measures, introduce English-language court proceedings, and create a narrowly framed restitution remedy. The reforms enhance procedural flexibility, digitalization and transparency while preserving finality, with significant implications for drafting arbitration clauses, managing cross-border interim relief and navigating post-award court proceedings in Germany. Written by Jennifer Bryant and Luis Bausch.

LCIA launches consultation on revisions to arbitration and mediation rules

The London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) has launched a consultation on the next editions of its Arbitration Rules and Mediation Rules, seeking input from the international arbitration and mediation community. The LCIA notes that since the last revision in 2020, user needs have evolved, technology has become more integrated into legal practice, arbitration laws have been reformed and the geopolitical environment has undergone significant change. The forthcoming revisions will focus on practical provisions that improve cost management, reduce procedural complexity and equip tribunals with enhanced tools to deliver efficient and enforceable outcomes. The consultation focuses on several key themes: (1) expedited and fast-track procedures; (2) updates to emergency arbitrator provisions; (3) third-party funding disclosure and tribunal powers; (4) costs reform, including optional ad valorem schedules; (5) AI disclosure and safeguards and (6) digital-ready proceedings, cybersecurity and data protection. Stage 1 of the consultation closes on 11 May 2026. Draft versions of the revised rules will be published for a second round of consultation later in 2026.

Paris Court of Appeal confirms inapplicability of arbitration agreement referring to non-existent rules

Arbitration analysis: In a decision dated 18 December 2025, the Paris Court of Appeal held that an arbitration agreement which referred to conciliation and arbitration rules that do not exist was ‘manifestly inapplicable’within the meaning of Article 1448(1) of the French Code of Civil Procedure (the ‘FCCP’). On that basis, the Court upheld the jurisdiction of the French over the dispute. This case underscores the need for careful drafting of arbitration agreement, including verifying the existence and content of the applicable arbitration rules, to ensure that such agreements can be effectively applied. Written by Nadia Darwazeh, partner at Vanguard International Dispute Resolution.