Disputes are inevitable in business, construction, banking, and commercial ventures. Resolving them efficiently requires a trusted arbitration law firm in the UAE with expertise in the UAE legal system. Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, a globally recognized law firm with extensive UAE presence, provides world-class arbitration services in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and across the Emirates.
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Our team combines local expertise with international arbitration knowledge to ensure your interests are protected and disputes are resolved quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
Why Arbitration is Essential in the UAE
Arbitration is a preferred dispute resolution mechanism in the UAE for businesses due to its speed, confidentiality, and enforceability. Some key reasons UAE businesses choose arbitration include:
- Faster dispute resolution compared to traditional courts.
- Confidentiality, safeguarding sensitive commercial information.
- Enforceability under the New York Convention for cross-border disputes.
- Flexibility, allowing parties to select arbitrators with industry expertise.
- Neutrality, especially for disputes involving foreign parties.
Given the UAE’s status as a global business hub with strong regulatory frameworks in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and other Emirates, arbitration ensures commercial disputes do not disrupt operations or investments.
Why Choose Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP as Your Arbitration Law Firm
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP stands out as the best arbitration law firm in the UAE due to our unparalleled combination of local knowledge, international expertise, and commitment to client success. Here’s why clients choose us:
- Global Expertise with Local Knowledge
Our lawyers are well-versed in UAE Federal Law, DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Rules, Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), Abu Dhabi Commercial Conciliation and Arbitration Centre (ADCCAC) regulations, and Sharjah Arbitration Centre procedures. - Proven Track Record
We have successfully handled complex commercial, construction, banking, and international arbitration cases across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates. - Client-Centric Approach
Every client receives a tailored strategy, cost-effective solutions, and transparent communication throughout the arbitration process. - Multilingual and Culturally Savvy Team
Our lawyers understand the UAE business landscape and can communicate fluently in English, Arabic, and other regional languages to ensure smooth dispute resolution. - Enforceable Awards
We ensure all arbitration awards are fully enforceable locally in UAE courts and internationally under relevant conventions.

Our Arbitration Services in the UAE
At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, we offer comprehensive arbitration services across all Emirates including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
1. Commercial Arbitration
We handle disputes arising from commercial contracts, joint ventures, trade agreements, and shareholder disagreements. Our team ensures your business rights are safeguarded while minimizing operational disruptions.
2. Construction and Real Estate Arbitration
Construction disputes in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah are increasingly resolved through arbitration. Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP advises on:
- Contract disputes and project delays
- Defective workmanship claims
- Payment and performance disputes
- EPC and FIDIC contract arbitrations
3. Banking and Finance Arbitration
With Dubai and Abu Dhabi as global financial centers, banking disputes often involve cross-border transactions. We provide arbitration services for:
- Loan agreements and credit facility disputes
- Securities and derivatives disagreements
- International trade finance arbitration
4. International Arbitration
Our team manages cross-border disputes efficiently, leveraging international rules such as ICC, LCIA, and SIAC Arbitration procedures. We ensure enforceability in the UAE and globally, giving businesses confidence to operate internationally.
5. Investment and Commercial Arbitration
We assist investors and companies with:
- Bilateral investment treaty (BIT) disputes
- Mergers and acquisitions disagreements
- Franchise and licensing disputes
6. Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP also offers mediation and other ADR mechanisms, particularly useful for companies in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) or Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) who prefer amicable resolution.
Step-by-Step Arbitration Process in the UAE
- Pre-Arbitration Assessment
Our lawyers analyze contract terms, identify legal and factual issues, and recommend the optimal arbitration strategy. - Arbitrator Selection
We guide clients in appointing arbitrators based on expertise, neutrality, and efficiency. - Filing the Arbitration Claim
We prepare and file the notice of arbitration and supporting documents in compliance with UAE arbitration rules. - Arbitration Proceedings
We represent clients in hearings, written submissions, evidence presentation, and witness cross-examination. - Award Enforcement
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ensures that arbitration awards are enforceable in UAE courts and internationally. - Post-Award Support
We assist with any post-arbitration challenges, including award annulment or appeals where applicable.
Advantages of Choosing Arbitration Over Litigation in the UAE
Arbitration has become the preferred dispute resolution method for businesses in the UAE due to multiple advantages over traditional court litigation in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates. Key benefits include:
- Faster Resolution: Arbitration can significantly reduce dispute resolution time compared to courts. Most arbitration cases in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are resolved within 6 to 12 months.
- Confidentiality: Unlike court proceedings, arbitration hearings remain private, protecting sensitive business information.
- Flexibility: Parties can select arbitrators with expertise in their industry, which is crucial for technical sectors such as construction, banking, and trade.
- Cross-Border Enforcement: Awards under recognized arbitration rules, such as ICC, LCIA, DIAC, and ADCCAC, are enforceable across the UAE and internationally.
- Cost Efficiency: Arbitration procedures can minimize legal costs by avoiding prolonged litigation while ensuring effective dispute resolution.
By choosing a top arbitration law firm in the UAE, businesses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah can safeguard their commercial interests while maintaining operational efficiency.
Why Businesses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah Trust Us
Businesses across the UAE select Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP for arbitration due to our:
- Expertise in DIFC and ADGM Laws
- Local knowledge of Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) and Abu Dhabi Commercial Conciliation and Arbitration Centre (ADCCAC)
- Successful enforcement of international awards under UAE law
- Proven strategies for complex multi-jurisdictional disputes
Our team has been instrumental in protecting corporate interests across diverse sectors such as real estate, finance, trade, and construction.
Common Types of Arbitration Cases in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP handles a wide spectrum of arbitration cases across the UAE. Understanding common dispute types can help businesses anticipate risks and take proactive measures.
- Commercial and Trade Disputes: Breach of contracts, joint ventures, shareholder disagreements, and partnership conflicts.
- Construction and Real Estate Arbitration: EPC contracts, FIDIC agreements, project delays, defects, and payment disputes in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
- Banking and Finance Arbitration: Loan defaults, credit facility disputes, trade finance issues, and international banking disagreements.
- International Arbitration: Cross-border disputes requiring ICC, LCIA, SIAC, or DIAC proceedings, often involving multi-jurisdictional contracts.
- Investment and Corporate Disputes: M&A disagreements, franchise conflicts, licensing issues, and bilateral investment treaty claims.
Our UAE arbitration experts tailor strategies for each case type to ensure favorable outcomes while maintaining confidentiality and enforceability.
How Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP Protects Your Business Interests in UAE Arbitration
When disputes arise in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, protecting your business and reputation is crucial. Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ensures clients achieve the best possible outcomes through:
- Strategic Case Assessment: Analyzing contracts, identifying risks, and formulating a tailored arbitration strategy.
- Expert Drafting of Claims and Submissions: Preparing precise notices of arbitration, statements of claim, and evidence packages to maximize legal impact.
- Professional Representation in Hearings: Advocating effectively during oral hearings, witness examination, and cross-examinations.
- Enforcement and Post-Award Assistance: Ensuring arbitration awards are enforced locally and internationally, minimizing the risk of non-compliance.
- Ongoing Risk Mitigation Advice: Advising clients on preventive measures, contract clauses, and compliance practices to avoid future disputes.
By partnering with Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, companies in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates gain a trusted arbitration partner dedicated to safeguarding their commercial success.
Common Arbitration Challenges in the UAE
While arbitration is effective, some common challenges include:
- Choosing a competent and neutral arbitrator.
- Enforcing foreign arbitration awards in UAE courts.
- Complex contract terms and multi-jurisdictional claims.
- Differences between local UAE laws and international arbitration rules.
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP helps clients navigate these challenges with precision, ensuring smooth dispute resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP the best arbitration law firm in the UAE?
We combine international arbitration expertise with deep UAE legal knowledge, ensuring enforceable and strategic solutions for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and across the Emirates.
Does Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP provide cross-border arbitration services?
Yes. We manage disputes under ICC, LCIA, SIAC, and other international rules, ensuring awards are enforceable both in the UAE and globally.
How long does arbitration take in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Typical commercial arbitration ranges from 6 to 12 months depending on case complexity, but our experienced team streamlines procedures to reduce delays.
Are arbitration awards enforceable in the UAE?
Yes. Under the UAE Federal Arbitration Law and the New York Convention, awards issued by recognized arbitration bodies can be enforced in all Emirates.
What sectors does Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP specialize in?
We serve construction, real estate, banking and finance, trade, investment, and general commercial disputes throughout Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates.
How to Engage Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP for Arbitration in the UAE
Engaging a trusted law firm early can save time, money, and corporate reputation. Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP offers:
- Initial case evaluation and strategic advice.
- Contract review and arbitration clause drafting.
- Representation in UAE and international arbitration proceedings.
- Enforcement of arbitration awards in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates.
Contact our UAE office today to schedule a consultation. Our team will provide a tailored arbitration strategy and guide your business through the UAE legal framework with confidence and efficiency.
E-mail: info@deweyleboeuf.com
Phone: +971 58 690 9684
Address: 26B Street, Mirdif, Dubai, UAE