Abu Dhabi to host 2026 IBA Arbitration Day, cementing UAE’s role in global dispute resolution
Abu Dhabi is set to make a significant mark on the global legal landscape by hosting the 27th Annual International Bar Association (IBA) Arbitration Day on January 28–29, 2026. This event is expected not only to enhance the city's reputation as a premier venue for international dispute resolution but also to solidify the UAE's growing influence in the global legal arena.
Recognised as one of the most impactful events in the international arbitration calendar, the IBA Arbitration Day will gather elite arbitration experts, legal professionals, and industry leaders from around the world. It will provide a platform for high-level discussions on the evolving trends, challenges, and innovations in the field of international dispute resolution. The hosting of this prestigious event underscores the Abu Dhabi Global Market's (ADGM) standing as a respected dispute resolution hub, a status that has been carefully cultivated through various recent developments and partnerships.
The ADGM's legal ecosystem is characterised by its modern arbitration framework and state-of-the-art infrastructure, which includes advanced hearing centres and a legal system based on English common law. These attributes not only benefit the local legal community but also attract international focus. The establishment of the ADGM Courts has been pivotal; these courts are known for their efficiency and transparency, steering the region towards being a preferred destination for resolving complex, cross-border disputes. Linda Fitz-Alan, registrar and chief executive of ADGM Courts, highlighted this trust in her comments on the upcoming conference, stating that hosting the IBA Arbitration Day is a testament to Abu Dhabi's role as a leading hub for dispute resolution.
In recent years, Abu Dhabi has witnessed a surge in initiatives aimed at strengthening its position in international arbitration. For example, in March 2022, the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) signed a landmark agreement to hold hearings at ADGM's facilities, enhancing its global operational footprint. This cooperation facilitates knowledge-sharing that further enriches the region's dispute resolution methods.
Moreover, the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce has contributed to this evolving landscape by launching the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre (arbitrateAD) in early 2024. This new institution aims to supersede the former Abu Dhabi Commercial Conciliation and Arbitration Centre and promises enhanced efficiency and transparency in arbitration processes. With new arbitration rules that align with international standards, arbitrateAD reflects Abu Dhabi's commitment to modernising and improving its arbitration landscape.
The region's ambition to position itself as a leading arbitration hub has also seen the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) in late 2024. This partnership indicates a strategic collaboration between the two entities, promoting international arbitration and exploring joint conferences and seminars, further entrenching Abu Dhabi's role on the global stage.
The forthcoming IBA Arbitration Day is anticipated to draw hundreds of delegates from various countries, creating vibrant networking opportunities and facilitating strategic partnerships. The leadership of the IBA's Arbitration Committee has expressed excitement about the event being hosted in the MENA region, noting Abu Dhabi's significance as a vibrant financial and business centre.
As the legal community prepares for this landmark event, it becomes clear that Abu Dhabi's drive to enhance its legal and arbitration infrastructure is not just a localised effort but a notable global initiative aiming to position the UAE at the forefront of international legal discourse. This strategic vision not only bolsters the local economy but also fosters an atmosphere of innovation in legal services, positioning Abu Dhabi as a compelling destination for international arbitration in the years to come.