DIAC hosts Round Table Discussion

he main aim behind this discussion was to examine how arbitration and other efficient and cost effective alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms may assist in resolving domestic and international maritime cases in the UAE. The discussion was opened by Mr. Abdul Rahman G. Al Mutaiwee, Director General of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce of Industry. Describing the UAE as a significant trading post for many centuries, Mr. Al Mutaiwee's view was that it is naturally important to develop a means of serving the maritime industry in the region. He stated: "The creation of a serious international dispute resolution forum is one way to support the maritime industry"

This point was later emphasised by Dr. Hussam Al Talhuni, Director of DIAC in his speech about the Centre and its plans to further develop arbitration and mediation for maritime disputes. Dr. Al Talhuni went on to say that this discussion served as an open forum for the maritime industry to air their views and problems and to suggest potential solutions. He was followed on by Dr. Osama Nachef, managing partner of Osama Nachef & Associates, who spoke about the need for maritime mediation in the region. The discussion was nicely rounded up by the last presentation of the day, which was made by Ms. Jasamin Fitch, the in-house legal counsel of Heath & Lambert, where she spoke in greater detail about arbitration and mediation as useful dispute resolution mechanisms for maritime conflicts and the importance of the professional development of arbitrators and mediators.

The discussion attracted several leading figures from a variety of shipping companies in the UAE. Attendees were given an opportunity to put forward their views and experiences in the Q&A sessions, which followed the talks.

This Round Table event will act as a precursor for the forthcoming international maritime conference, which is scheduled to take place later this year in June. This one-day-and -half conference will host highly-acclaimed speakers from all around the world. The aims of the different discussion panel sessions will be to tackle a vast range of maritime topics.

The general feedback from the discussion was positive. Attendees were impressed by DIAC's efforts in organising these talks and hoped to see further developments in this region on maritime conflict settlement.