Dubai's DIFC Courts record 37 arbitration claims worth AED 3.2bn in first half of 2026, nearly two-thirds of 2025 total

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts said on Wednesday (November 12) that their Arbitration Division registered 37 arbitration claims worth AED 3.2 billion (about $870 million) in the first half of 2026, nearly 65% of the total claim value registered in the whole of 2025. The figures were released during Dubai Arbitration Week 2026, which concludes on Friday (November 13).

Demand for arbitration keeps growing

The DIFC Courts said the 37 cases, worth AED 3.2 billion in total, reflect continuing growth in demand for arbitration to settle commercial disputes in the centre. During Arbitration Week, judges and practitioners discussed how arbitration, mediation and court support work together, and proposed amendments to the DIFC Arbitration Law, including broader tribunal powers, emergency arbitration and a shorter deadline for challenging awards.

Reforms still at consultation stage

The Courts stressed that the proposed changes remain a consultation-stage draft and cannot be relied on before formal enactment. Those taking part in the sessions included DIFC Courts Chief Justice Wayne Martin. Friday's programme includes a session on structuring cross-border deals with Russian parties amid sanctions and insolvency risks.