FIDIC / Legal Reference: UAE-based international arbitral institution
The leading arbitral institution in the UAE, established by the Dubai Government to administer international arbitration proceedings. DIAC’s 2022 Rules significantly updated the institution’s procedures — introducing an emergency arbitrator, expedited arbitration, and enhanced multi-party provisions.
What it means in practice
DIAC administers arbitrations under its own rules, which provide for: appointment of arbitrators, administration of proceedings, determination of jurisdiction challenges, and enforcement of arbitral awards through the Dubai courts. DIAC awards are enforceable as court judgments in Dubai and under the New York Convention internationally.
The DIAC Expedited Procedure (introduced in 2022) allows disputes valued at under USD 1 million (or where parties agree) to be resolved by a sole arbitrator within 45 days of constitution of the tribunal — particularly valuable for payment disputes.
Where disputes arise
DIAC construction arbitrations typically involve: final account disputes, extension of time and delay damages claims, termination disputes, and professional negligence claims against consultants.
UAE Context
DIAC absorbed the former DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre in 2023, consolidating the UAE’s international arbitration landscape. It is the institution most frequently specified in UAE construction contract dispute resolution clauses.
Related terms
e-Basel acts as arbitrator at DIAC and provides expert witness and claims advisory services for DIAC construction arbitrations. Contact us to discuss your dispute.
Construction Arbitrator UAE →Search terms: DIAC arbitration UAE · Dubai International Arbitration Centre · construction arbitration Dubai · DIAC 2022 rules · DIAC construction dispute UAE