United Arab Emirates: Arbitration & Dispute Resolution

The DIFC Court of Appeal has set aside a EUR 1 million arbitration award after finding that the tribunal decided the case on a theory raised only in post-hearing submissions, denying the losing party a fair opportunity to respond. This landmark ruling examines the boundaries between arbitral flexibility and procedural fairness, establishing when late-emerging legal theories cross the line from permissible argument to trial by surprise.

The UAE has emerged as a premier global sporting hub, hosting world-class events and professional leagues that draw elite international talent. Behind this commercial success lies...

Court-appointed experts play a crucial role in UAE civil litigation, particularly in technically complex disputes involving construction, finance, and engineering. While expert reports carry significant persuasive weight, a fundamental principle remains: these reports are advisory only, and judges retain full authority to accept, modify, or reject expert findings.