The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) has successfully inaugurated the 22nd International Congress of Maritime Arbitrators (ICMA XXII) on November 5th, convening leading stakeholders of the maritime and arbitration community.
Event Inauguration
At 09:00, the ICMA Host Committee and DIAC commenced the opening ceremony of ICMA XXII. The inaugural addresses were delivered by Richard Briggs, Chair of the ICMA Host Committee and Member of the DIAC Board of Directors, and David Martowski, Chair of the ICMA Steering Committee. Jehad Kazim, Executive Director and Board Member of DIAC, and Rania Tadros, Vice Chair of the ICMA Host Committee and Office Managing Partner in Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP, also provided insights.
Ms Jehad Kazim emphasised the dynamic advancements and challenges within the industry, particularly pointing out Dubai’s significant expansion in the logistics arena and its stride towards sustainable maritime development. His address also underscored the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into maritime arbitration. Celebrating DIAC’s strategic innovations, Kazim mentioned the institution’s latest developments, including the adoption of modern mediation rules and the introduction of the DIAC Rules 2022, which aim to cultivate a more progressive environment for dispute resolution.
Briggs reflected on the ICMA’s historical journey, appreciating its legacy in maritime arbitration and elaborating on the crucial role it plays today in resolving increasingly complex international disputes. He highlighted the organisation’s status as a custodian of specialised knowledge in the field, envisioning a continued path as a key institution for fair and balanced dispute resolution.
The first day’s proceedings were highlighted by a keynote speech from Mohammed Al Muallem, Executive Vice President of DP World, and a Cedric Barclay memorial lecture that emphasised the congress’s rooted tradition in maritime arbitration excellence by Sir Bernard Eder, International Arbitrator and former High Court Judge. Dr. Hassan Arab, Member of the DIAC Arbitration Court and Partner, Regional Head of Dispute Resolution of Al Tamimi and Company, closed the session with an acknowledgement of the collaborative efforts contributing to the event’s commencement.
Congress Highlights
– A comprehensive programme addressing the latest in maritime arbitration.
– Networking events promoting professional interaction.
– Cultural activities reflecting Dubai’s rich heritage.
Dubai’s Role and DIAC’s Mission
DIAC, as the congress host, asserts Dubai’s strategic importance as a hub for international arbitration. This congress is in line with DIAC’s commitment to providing a premier venue for dispute resolution, enhancing knowledge sharing, and fostering professional unity. The insights generated here are expected to influence the evolution of maritime arbitration significantly.
