Navigating Contract Disputes in Dubai: A Guide to DIAC Arbitration

Apr 19, 2026

58 min

Apr 19, 2026 07:30

Ask Gulf News: Contract dispute over undelivered goods? How to pursue your legal rights in Dubai

## Understanding Contractual Obligations

In Dubai, if a contract specifies arbitration through the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), parties must adhere to this process for resolving disputes. This is particularly relevant in cases where goods, such as vehicles, are not delivered as agreed.

## Initiating Arbitration

To begin arbitration at DIAC, the party initiating the process must submit a formal Request to the Centre. This submission should include all necessary documentation and information. Additionally, a registration fee is required to proceed.

## Respondent's Role

Once the Request is filed, the Centre informs the Respondent, who has 30 days to submit an Answer. If the Respondent fails to respond, the arbitration can still continue under the established rules.

## Arbitration Tribunal

The arbitration tribunal is composed of arbitrators as agreed by the parties. If no agreement exists, a sole arbitrator is appointed. The tribunal is responsible for issuing the Final Award within six months, unless an extension is mutually agreed upon.

## Binding Decisions

All decisions made by the tribunal are binding. Parties involved in the arbitration process are obligated to comply with the awards issued without delay, ensuring a resolution to the dispute.

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