Practice areas
Arbitration, Mediation & Settlement
Court is not always the best forum. We represent clients in arbitration and mediation and negotiate settlements that protect their position.
We handle
- Arbitration, including under Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) rules
- Court actions to ratify or annul arbitral awards
- Mediation and conciliation
- Negotiating and drafting settlement agreements
- Dispute-avoidance advice during contracts and projects
Situations we often see
“Our contract has an arbitration clause”
We review the clause, the rules it refers to and the steps required before arbitration can start, then advise on the best way forward.
“We want to settle but protect ourselves”
We negotiate terms and draft a settlement agreement that is clear, complete and enforceable.
“We received an arbitral award”
Awards must be ratified by the court to be enforced, and can be challenged only on limited grounds. We advise on either step.
How we approach it
- 01
Check the clause first
Notice periods, negotiation steps and the chosen rules decide how a dispute must start.
- 02
Prepare like a hearing
Statements, evidence and witnesses prepared to the same standard as court.
- 03
Settle on paper
A settlement is only as good as the agreement that records it.
- 04
Finish in court if needed
Ratification or annulment of the award before the competent court.
What to bring
- The contract with the arbitration or dispute clause
- Notices already exchanged
- Key correspondence and documents
- Any award or settlement draft
- Your objectives and limits for a settlement
- Names of parties and representatives on the other side
Questions clients ask
Is arbitration faster than court?
Sometimes, but not always. Arbitration offers confidentiality and specialist arbitrators, while court can be faster and cheaper for straightforward claims. We advise on which forum suits your dispute and your contract.
Can I go to court if my contract has an arbitration clause?
If the other party raises the clause in time, the court will usually decline the case and refer you to arbitration. We review the clause before you choose a route.
Is a settlement agreement binding?
Yes, a properly drafted settlement is binding, and some settlements can be ratified by a court or recorded before a judge to make them directly enforceable.
Discuss your matter with an advocate
Send us a short summary of your matter. We confirm there is no conflict of interest, then ask for your documents. We aim to reply within one working day.