Dubai: The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) has secured top rankings in the prestigious GAR 100 Data Report, published by Global Arbitration Review (GAR), a leading industry publication. The report ranks Dubai as the fifth most popular arbitration seat worldwide by case volume, surpassing more than 405 cities, including major arbitration hubs such as New York and Geneva. Additionally, Dubai ranks ninth globally in total arbitration case value, outperforming cities like Seoul and Frankfurt.
DIAC itself has been ranked as the tenth most active arbitration centre globally in terms of case numbers and ninth in total case value, surpassing over 315 arbitration institutions worldwide. Notably, Dubai is the only arbitration seat, and DIAC the only arbitration centre from the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region, to be featured in the global top 10 rankings.
Jehad Kazim, Executive Director of DIAC, highlighted that these high rankings reflect the international business community’s confidence in Dubai as a leading arbitration hub. The recognition also aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position DIAC among the world’s top five arbitration centres.
Kazim further noted that DIAC operates under a structured work plan overseen by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE. This strategy supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to enhance Dubai’s status as a global leader in arbitration.
A Strong Track Record in Arbitration
Over the past three decades, DIAC has handled more than 5,000 arbitration cases with a total value exceeding AED 100 billion. The centre provides a robust legal framework and reliable enforcement mechanisms, attracting high-value and complex disputes from across the world.
Since 2022, DIAC has introduced updated arbitration rules, reformed its arbitration court, and expanded its board of directors. These enhancements reinforce its commitment to efficient and impartial dispute resolution, ensuring fair outcomes for all parties involved.
Global Recognition in Arbitration
The GAR 100 Data Report is a comprehensive analysis derived from GAR’s annual GAR 100 guide, which identifies the world’s leading law firms with arbitration practices. Covering more than 11,200 arbitration cases from 2015 to 2023, the report offers key insights into case volumes, institutional performance, and user preferences in arbitration. DIAC’s inclusion in the top rankings underscores its growing influence on the global arbitration landscape.
