EVENT

Shaping arbitration in the UAE:
AI, confidentiality and recent judicial trends

Join Thomson Reuters and Al Tamimi & Company as part of Dubai Arbitration Week

Join Thomson Reuters and Al Tamimi & Company for our event, 'Shaping arbitration in the UAE: AI, confidentiality and recent judicial trends' during Dubai Arbitration Week. In two concise panels, legal experts will discuss the future of dispute resolution, focusing on the unique opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence (AI) in the Middle East as well as providing a comprehensive overview of the latest trends and judicial themes in arbitration, drawing on the article series covering recent landmark decisions from the Dubai and Abu Dhabi courts.

Designed for in‑house counsel, practitioners, and arbitrators seeking practical, actionable takeaways.

Agenda

2:30 – 3:00 pm

Registration

3:00 – 3:05 pm

AI and the reinvention of legal education

Dr. Rita Waked
Vice-Dean of the School of Law
Saint Joseph University Dubai

3:05 – 4:00 pm

Panel 1

The Future of Dispute Resolution: Navigating Opportunities and Challenges in MENA

This panel will focus on the unique challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI) and technology-related disputes in arbitration.

Key discussion points may include:

Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
Discuss the impact of evolving legal frameworks on dispute resolution, focusing on compliance and adaptation to new regulations.
Technological Integration
Explore how emerging technologies and AI are transforming dispute resolution processes in the MENA region, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.
Cultural and Regional Dynamics
Examine the influence of cultural and regional factors on dispute resolution practices and the adoption of innovative solutions.
Opportunities and Challenges
Identify strategic opportunities for growth and address key challenges such as cross-border disputes and digital asset management.

Moderator

Bilal Syed
AI and Legal Tech Lead - MENA, Thomson Reuters

Speakers

Max Davis
Senior Counsel, Al Tamimi & Company

Hussain Almatrood
Partner, Al Tamimi & Company

Kristin Campbell-Wilson
International Executive & Arbitration Specialist

Girgis Abd El-Shahid
Managing Partner, Shahid Law Firm

4:00 – 5:00 pm

Panel 2

Trends and Themes in Arbitration – Insights from Recent UAE Case Law

This panel will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest trends and judicial themes in arbitration, drawing on the article series covering recent landmark decisions from the Dubai and Abu Dhabi courts.

Key themes to be discussed:

Public Policy and Non-Arbitrable Matters
The limits of arbitration in the UAE, particularly regarding matters of public policy such as bankruptcy, and the courts’ willingness to annul awards that overstep these boundaries.
Seat of Arbitration and Jurisdiction
Clarification of the distinction between the legal seat and the physical venue of arbitration, and its impact on court jurisdiction and applicable procedural law.
Costs and Legal Fees
The shift in judicial interpretation regarding the tribunal’s authority to award legal costs and attorneys’ fees, especially under institutional rules like DIAC and ICC.