Alternate dispute resolution gains popularity

The joint organizing of the event goes in line with Dubai Chamber's mission that aims at protecting the interests of Dubai's business community and helping widen the scope of its members' businesses with their international partners, in addition to providing them with best services and facilities that help in the growth of their business.

The workshop that was conducted by Dr. Hussam Al Talhuni, Director of DIAC who spoke about Resolving Disputes through Arbitration and Jehad Abdulrazzaq Kazim, Director, Legal Services, Dubai Chamber, who gave a presentation on Managing Disputes through Mediation, was attended by members of various business groups, companies and professional firms.

Dr. Hussam Al Talhuni said, "Through this means of dispute resolution the parties meet with a third party who helps them resolve their dispute in a way that is less formal and often more consensual than is done in the courts. As more people are coming to us we expect the demand for this cost-effective alternative to litigation to go up considerably," he said adding, "Initially, we guide people about the inclusion of an arbitration clause in their agreements so that any dispute arising later can be settled by arbitration in accordance with 'the Rules of Dubai International Arbitration Centre."

Kazim added, "Alternative Dispute Resolution is an efficient means of resolving disputes without referring to courts. Currently, the justice system is not able to cope up with the ever-increasing burden of civil litigation. Therefore, there is an urgent need to formulate effective ADR mechanisms, specifically mediation to alleviate the present burden of judicial functioning. At Dubai Chamber it's our priority to promote ADR and its various benefits. We want to build a proactive ADR culture in the region so that all levels of businessmen, decision-makers and entities are aware of the various ADR techniques, the tremendous advantages it brings, and how it can be implemented effectively."

DIAC's website includes significant information on international arbitration and a special link for the associate members. It is supplied with an electronic library that helps members learn more about the new regulations of commercial arbitration.