The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) announced it would commence operations at the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre (arbitrateAD) from 1st February, 2024.

This strategic initiative aligns with the Chamber's commitment to fortify Abu Dhabi's standing as a pre-eminent global hub for arbitration.

At the forefront of international dispute resolution, arbitrateAD signifies a paradigm shift in the institutional landscape of the emirate. Not only will the Centre administer arbitration proceedings under its new rules, but it will also serve as the appointing authority in ad hoc proceedings and plans to offer cutting-edge hearing facilities in the near future.

Operating under a new constitution, a dynamic team, and arbitration rules aligned with international best practices, arbitrateAD strongly emphasizes impartiality. The Centre’s top-tier experts will oversee domestic and international arbitration proceedings, amplifying awareness within the global business community that Abu Dhabi is a trustworthy destination for dispute resolution. The distinguished team includes Maria Chedid, Global Chair of Arnold Porter's international arbitration practice group. She will be the first female president of an arbitral court in the Middle East.

At a press conference at the ADCCI headquarters in Abu Dhabi, Abdullah Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of ADCCI and Chairman of the Board of Directors of arbitrateAD, and Chedid unveiled the vision and mission of arbitrateAD. This was followed by the inaugural meeting of the Court of Arbitration.

The day culminated with a launch ceremony attended by dignitaries, arbitrateAD and ADCCI teams, and members of the business and arbitration communities, marking a historic milestone for the emirate.

Al Mazrouei said, “The establishment of the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre reflects the Chamber’s dedication to bolstering the competitiveness of our national economy in alignment with global economic shifts. Additionally, advancing the position of Abu Dhabi as a leading global destination for business and investment and consolidating its distinguished reputation in the international community will make it one of the most trusted options in the world for resolving disputes through alternative methods.”

Chedid said, “The new arbitration rules adopted by arbitrateAD align with the latest international best practices. We are committed to ensuring that our services and practices are aligned with the evolving demands of the times, ensuring they cater to the needs of both the arbitration and business communities.”

Kristin Campbell-Wilson, Executive Director of the Centre, said, “The Centre is dedicated to delivering alternative dispute resolution services through effective, impartial, and efficient procedures. Leveraging its distinguished expertise, we uphold the principles of integrity, transparency, and fairness. Our commitment to swift, efficient procedures aims to secure the Centre’s global footprint in international arbitration.”

In recent weeks, the Centre has announced the inaugural members of its Court of Arbitration. The independent Court, consisting of 15 specialised experts from around the world, will play a pivotal role in supervising arbitration cases and appointing arbitrators. Led by Executive Director Kristin Campbell-Wilson, the Centre’s daily operations will leverage technology through the online case management system, docketAD, ensuring the efficient administration of all new cases registered on and from 1st February.