Abu Dhabi’s arbitrateAD Earns Global Recognition at Paris GAR Awards

In a significant milestone for the legal ecosystem of the UAE, Abu Dhabi’s leading arbitration centre, arbitrateAD, has earned global recognition after being honoured at the prestigious 2025 Global Arbitration Review (GAR) Awards held in Paris. The award, titled “Arbitral Institution That Impressed,” places arbitrateAD among the most admired regional arbitration centres across the globe. The recognition is not only a validation of the Centre’s rapid achievements but also a symbol of the UAE’s growing role as a credible international legal and financial hub.

This honour from the GAR awards acknowledges arbitrateAD’s innovative approach to arbitration and its commitment to building a world-class dispute resolution framework. Presented annually by the Global Arbitration Review, these awards highlight excellence in the arbitration industry across various regions, rewarding institutions that operate outside traditional legal hubs like New York, London, and Paris. For Abu Dhabi, this distinction is more than a ceremonial victory—it reflects the Emirate’s vision for a diversified, globally integrated legal and business environment.

The Rise of ArbitrateAD: A Year of Significant Progress

Since its official launch on February 1, 2024, arbitrateAD has rapidly become a symbol of legal excellence in the region. A brainchild of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Centre has exceeded expectations in its first operational year. It has laid down the foundation for a robust arbitration court and established a highly capable Secretariat.

According to the GAR Awards announcement, the formation of a distinguished arbitration court and the appointments of a new registrar and chairperson were particularly commendable. These developments have empowered arbitrateAD to handle international commercial disputes with integrity, fairness, and efficiency. The Centre has focused on resolving disputes across a wide range of industries, from finance and construction to energy and trade, thereby enhancing its credibility among international corporations and law firms.

Its progress aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader ambition to evolve into a global financial and legal powerhouse. With arbitrateAD’s success, the Emirate now has a compelling case to present itself as a prime venue for international arbitration.

Global Recognition Rooted in Local Vision and Commitment

The award has deeper implications for the UAE’s legal infrastructure. His Excellency Dr. Ali Saeed bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Chairman of arbitrateAD and Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce, noted that this award is a reflection of the Centre’s calibre and the Emirate’s unwavering commitment to building a world-class arbitration system.

“This international milestone not only affirms the calibre and credibility of the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre, but also reinforces Abu Dhabi’s global standing as a forward-looking hub for dispute resolution,” Dr. Al Dhaheri remarked.

His statement underscores the long-term strategic objectives behind arbitrateAD’s foundation: to serve both local and global stakeholders through a forward-thinking legal environment. The Centre complements Abu Dhabi Global Market’s (ADGM) ambition to become a central node in the world’s legal and financial grid. With institutions like arbitrateAD in its ecosystem, ADGM is steadily reinforcing its appeal to multinational firms and global investors seeking fair and efficient legal frameworks.

Leadership and Diversity at the Heart of the Centre’s Success

An integral part of arbitrateAD’s early success is its inclusive and expert-led leadership team. Maria Chedid, President of the Centre’s Inaugural Court of Arbitration and Global Chair of the arbitration practice at Arnold & Porter, played a key role in shaping its international reputation.

In her remarks following the GAR award, Chedid acknowledged the hard work of the Secretariat and the global team of experts that support the Centre’s operations. “It is gratifying that arbitrateAD has been recognised for an impressive first year… I look forward to the Centre’s growing success,” she noted.

This emphasis on diversity and expertise is crucial. The Centre’s leadership is composed of renowned legal minds with varied international backgrounds, making it well-equipped to handle complex commercial disputes while ensuring neutrality, cultural sensitivity, and legal rigour.

Strategic Relevance of ArbitrateAD for the UAE’s Legal Ecosystem

ArbitrateAD’s recognition by GAR represents more than institutional prestige. It illustrates how strategic legal development can boost the UAE’s soft power and enhance investor confidence. The Centre’s model of offering arbitration services that are transparent, efficient, and cost-effective positions it as a preferred alternative to lengthy litigation processes.

For the wider UAE legal community, this award is a watershed moment. It provides a roadmap for other institutions aiming to achieve global standards. It also supports the country’s efforts to reform and expand its legal frameworks to meet the needs of international stakeholders.

Furthermore, the award reinforces the UAE’s role in reshaping global perceptions about the Middle East’s capacity to host and manage international legal proceedings. With arbitrateAD leading the charge, Abu Dhabi is well on its way to becoming a cornerstone in the global arbitration landscape.

What Lies Ahead for ArbitrateAD and Abu Dhabi?

With the GAR award now in its repertoire, arbitrateAD is well-positioned to attract a greater number of cross-border disputes. Its user-centric approach, expert leadership, and backing from Abu Dhabi’s strategic institutions provide a strong foundation for expansion.

The Centre is likely to scale up its services, introduce new arbitration rules aligned with international norms, and collaborate with other global institutions to promote best practices. Additionally, the support from the Abu Dhabi Chamber and ADGM ensures a steady pipeline of institutional cooperation and legal innovation.

As arbitrateAD continues to grow, it not only elevates Abu Dhabi’s legal landscape but also sets a benchmark for similar institutions across the MENA region. The message is clear: Abu Dhabi is open for business—and ready to resolve disputes on the global stage.

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Abu Dhabi’s arbitrateAD was honoured at the 2025 GAR Awards in Paris, winning the “Arbitral Institution That Impressed” accolade. This prestigious recognition highlights arbitrateAD’s swift rise as a world-class dispute resolution centre in just its first operational year. With visionary leadership and strategic backing from the Abu Dhabi Chamber and ADGM, the Centre is helping transform the UAE into a premier global hub for international arbitration. The GAR award affirms Abu Dhabi’s forward-thinking legal strategy and commitment to excellence in the arbitration field, marking a transformative moment for the region’s legal infrastructure.