What DIAC is
The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) is the principal UAE-domestic arbitration institution and the leading regional arbitration body. It administers arbitrations under the 2022 DIAC Rules (which replaced the 2007 Rules), with awards enforceable globally under the New York Convention 1958 (acceded to by the UAE in 2006). Following the 2021 abolition of the DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre by Decree No. 34 of 2021, DIAC now also administers existing DIFC-LCIA cases.
The 2022 DIAC Rules — what changed
- Expedited procedure — for claims under AED 4 million as default (post-2026 update; previously AED 1 million on application)
- Emergency arbitrator — appointment within 5 business days (post-2026 update; previously 14 days)
- Joinder of additional parties — clearer mechanics for multi-party disputes
- Cross-examination as default — moved away from documents-only proceedings
- Tribunal-secretary framework — formalised role and disclosure
The DIAC arbitration process
Notice of Arbitration
Filed by claimant; details parties, dispute, relief sought, arbitrator nomination if applicable. Filing fee paid.
Response and tribunal constitution
Respondent files response within 30 days. Tribunal constituted (sole or three-arbitrator depending on agreement).
Procedural order & case management
Tribunal issues Procedural Order No. 1 setting out timetable, language, seat, evidence rules.
Statement of Claim and Defence
Substantive pleadings exchanged with supporting evidence. Witness statements and expert reports as required.
Hearing
Final evidentiary hearing with cross-examination — typically 3-10 days for commercial matters.
Award
Reasoned award issued within the timeline set by the rules (6 months expedited; 9-18 months full).
Enforcement
UAE-onshore enforcement under Federal Arbitration Law 6/2018; international enforcement under New York Convention.
DIAC vs other UAE arbitration institutions
| Institution | Best for |
|---|---|
| DIAC | Default UAE-seated commercial & construction; deep panel; modernised rules |
| arbitrateAD | Abu Dhabi commercial; ADNOC supply chain |
| Tahkeem | Sharjah-domiciled commercial; Northern Emirates |
| RAK | RAK-domiciled; cost-effective mid-market |
Frequently asked questions
What is DIAC?
Dubai International Arbitration Centre — principal UAE-domestic arbitration institution. Administers arbitrations under 2022 DIAC Rules. Awards enforceable globally under New York Convention.
What changed in the 2022 DIAC Rules?
Expedited procedure (now AED 4m default post-2026), emergency arbitrator (5-day appointment post-2026), clearer joinder mechanics, cross-examination as default, formalised tribunal-secretary framework.
How long does a DIAC arbitration take?
Expedited: 6-9 months filing to award. Full: 9-18 months. Emergency arbitrator interim measures within 15 days of application.
Are DIFC-LCIA legacy awards still administered?
Yes — by DIAC under Decree 34 of 2021. Pre-abolition awards remain valid and enforceable.
How are DIAC awards enforced?
UAE-onshore: Federal Arbitration Law (FDL 6/2018). International: New York Convention 1958. Cross-border via DIFC conduit also available.
Last updated: 1 May 2026. Contact us for matter-specific advice.