Arbitration Lawyers Dubai & UAE | DIAC, DIFC-LCIA & ICC | Hessa Al Hammadi

Arbitration Lawyers in Dubai — DIAC, ICC, LCIA & ADCCAC

Arbitration has become the preferred method of resolving commercial disputes in the UAE and across the GCC. Hessa Al Hammadi Advocates & Legal Consultants represents clients in domestic and international arbitration proceedings, from drafting enforceable arbitration clauses through to final award enforcement.

The UAE’s arbitration framework is governed by Federal Law No. 6 of 2018 on Arbitration, which aligns with the UNCITRAL Model Law and provides a robust, internationally recognised legal foundation. We are experienced in proceedings under the rules of all major regional and international arbitral institutions.

Arbitral Institutions We Practise In

DIAC

Dubai International Arbitration Centre (UAE's primary domestic arbitration centre)

ICC

International Chamber of Commerce (Paris-based, globally recognised)

LCIA

London Court of International Arbitration (used in English-law governed contracts)

ADCCAC

Abu Dhabi Commercial Conciliation and Arbitration Centre

DIFC-LCIA

Specialist arbitration centre for DIFC-seated disputes

Ad hoc arbitration

Under UNCITRAL Rules where no institution is specified

Our Arbitration Services

Drafting and reviewing arbitration clauses in commercial contracts
Representation as claimant or respondent in arbitration proceedings
Emergency arbitrator applications and interim measures
Challenge and set-aside applications before UAE courts under Federal Law No. 6 of 2018
Enforcement of domestic and foreign arbitral awards under the New York Convention
Expert determination and adjudication proceedings in construction disputes

Why Choose Arbitration?

Confidentiality — Arbitration proceedings and awards are not public records, protecting sensitive commercial information.
Speed — Many commercial arbitrations conclude in 9–18 months, compared with multi-year court timelines for complex disputes.
International enforceability — Awards from UAE-seated arbitrations are enforceable in 170+ countries under the New York Convention (1958).
Specialist decision-makers — Parties can select arbitrators with relevant technical or industry expertise.
Procedural flexibility — Parties have greater control over evidence, language, and procedural timetable.

The Arbitration Process — 5 Key Stages

Other Services

Litigation

Resolve legal disputes effectively with our trusted litigation services in the UAE. Our experienced team specializes in civil, commercial, real estate, employment, and corporate litigation, providing strategic representation tailored to your needs. We navigate the complexities of UAE federal laws, DIFC courts, and arbitration proceedings to secure favorable outcomes.

Arbitration

Simplify dispute resolution with our expert arbitration services in the UAE. Our skilled legal team specializes in handling domestic and international arbitration cases across industries, including construction, real estate, commercial, and corporate disputes.

Legal Consultation

Navigate UAE’s complex legal framework with confidence through our professional legal consultation services. Our experienced team provides tailored advice on civil, corporate, real estate, employment, and family law, ensuring full compliance with UAE regulations.

Construction Law

With requirements for Construction Lawyer in UAE complex construction projects that involve several parties, contracts, and rules are not uncommon.

Family Law

At our law consultants in Dubai, we know that legal issues involving family can be very emotional and hard to deal with. No matter if you need help with divorce, child custody, spousal support, or something else related to family law, our team of experienced in Family lawyers in Dubai.

Labor law

Corporate activity, more than in other jurisdictions, underpins every facet of commercial life in the UAE. We offer practical and effective advice covering all kinds of corporate and commercial matters and support most aspects of what a business requires through its lifecycle.

Rental disputes

Facing a rental dispute? Our expert team offers comprehensive legal assistance to landlords and tenants. We handle issues like lease agreements, evictions, rent arrears, and property damage. Trust us to provide clear guidance and effective resolution to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today for professional support in rental disputes.

Criminal law

Facing criminal charges is a daunting experience that requires expert legal guidance. Our team of seasoned criminal lawyers offers comprehensive support and representation for a wide range of offenses. We work diligently to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Trust us to navigate the complexities of criminal law with dedication and expertise.

Civil Law

Navigate the complexities of UAE civil law with confidence. Our expert legal team specializes in contract disputes, property settlements, debt recovery, and employment issues, ensuring compliance with the UAE's legal framework. With extensive experience in federal laws, Dubai-specific regulations, and DIFC proceedings, we provide tailored solutions to safeguard your rights.

Real Estate Law

Secure your investments with trusted guidance in UAE real estate law. Our specialized legal team assists with property transactions, lease agreements, developer disputes, and regulatory compliance. Navigate RERA regulations, freehold property laws, and off-plan project disputes with confidence. Whether you're buying, selling, or leasing, we ensure smooth processes and protect your rights.

Commercial Law

Navigate the dynamic business landscape of the UAE with expert commercial law services. Our team specializes in company formation, contract drafting, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and dispute resolution. Whether you're dealing with UAE Federal Law, DIFC regulations, or free zone requirements, we ensure your business operates smoothly and in full compliance.

Cyber Crime

Protect your digital rights with expert legal support. We handle cybercrime cases such as online fraud, defamation, hacking, and identity theft, offering swift, confidential, and personalized guidance to individuals and businesses in today’s digital landscape.

Cryptocurrency Disputes

Expert legal support for cryptocurrency disputes, including fraud, asset recovery, and contract breaches. We help protect your digital assets with clear strategies tailored to the evolving world of virtual currencies and blockchain.

Arbitration FAQs

Q: Is an arbitration award enforceable in UAE courts?

A: Yes. Under Articles 52–56 of Federal Law No. 6 of 2018, arbitral awards issued in the UAE are enforceable by UAE courts unless successfully challenged on limited public policy or procedural grounds. Foreign awards are enforceable under the New York Convention.

Q: What disputes are suitable for arbitration?

A: Most commercial disputes — including construction, real estate, joint venture, agency, and finance disputes — are suitable for arbitration. Family law matters and certain criminal matters cannot be arbitrated. We review your contract and dispute at the outset to confirm jurisdiction and suitability.

Q: Can I start arbitration if the contract does not have an arbitration clause?

A: If there is no pre-existing arbitration agreement, both parties must agree to submit to arbitration after the dispute arises. This is possible but requires cooperation. If only one party wishes to arbitrate, court litigation is the default route.

Q: How is an arbitral award challenged?

A: Under Article 53 of Federal Law No. 6 of 2018, an arbitral award may be set aside by the competent court on limited grounds including: the tribunal lacked jurisdiction, a party was unable to present its case, the award violates UAE public policy, or the arbitration agreement was invalid. Grounds for challenge are deliberately narrow to preserve finality.

Q: What language are UAE arbitration proceedings conducted in?

A: For DIAC proceedings, Arabic is the default language unless the parties agree otherwise. ICC, LCIA, and DIFC-LCIA proceedings are commonly conducted in English. The language of the arbitration is typically specified in the arbitration agreement.