The UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other Emirates) is a global hub for construction, energy, infrastructure, shipping and trade. Large projects commonly use FIDIC contracts and disputes are frequently resolved by arbitration at local and international seats (DIAC, ADGM, ICC and other centres). To succeed you must combine precise contractual drafting with deep knowledge of UAE arbitration practice and recent maritime reforms.
Core Service Offerings (What we deliver)
We provide outsourced drafting, research, and arbitration support tailored to UAE disputes — suitable for law firms, contractors, developers, P&I clubs, insurers, shipowners, and in-house counsel.
Construction & FIDIC Disputes
- Claims packages (EOT, delay & disruption, prolongation, prolongation cost schedules).
- Drafting notices, claims, defenses, and final accounts under FIDIC Red Book / Yellow Book / Silver Book processes.
- Expert liaison memos for Delay / Quantum experts and DAB / Dispute Adjudication Board inputs.
- Preparation of arbitration memorials and post-award enforcement notes.
Why it matters: FIDIC disputes in UAE follow multi-tiered processes (Engineer’s decision → DAB → amicable settlement → arbitration) — failing any step weakens your position.
International & Domestic Arbitration Support
- Drafting statements of claim/answer, memorials, jurisdictional objections, and procedural submissions for DIAC, ADGM, ICC, LCIA and SIAC cases.
- Procedural research (seat considerations, stay applications, interim relief strategy).
- Pre-arbitration strategy memos to preserve evidence and prepare expert evidence.
Local law note: UAE’s federal arbitration framework frames arbitration practice and governs recognition/enforcement issues in certain settings. UAE Legislation
Maritime & Shipping Disputes
- Charterparty disputes (voyage/time/bareboat), demurrage, cargo damage claims, bills of lading issues.
- Ship arrest applications, maritime lien papers, and assistance preparing LOUs and undertakings.
- Marine insurance and P&I correspondence, subrogation claims, and salvage/general average drafting.
Recent change: UAE updated its maritime law in 2023 (Federal Decree No. 43 of 2023) — this modernizes arrest rules, sister-ship arrest and other remedies. We draft documents mindful of those changes.
Commercial & Cross-Border Disputes
- Drafting breach of contract claims, injunctive relief applications, shareholder & JV dispute submissions, agency/distributorship claims, and enforcement strategies for foreign awards.
Supporting Deliverables (examples)
- Notice of Arbitration / Response to Notice
- Statements of Claim / Defence on the Merits
- Procedural applications (interim relief, joinder, bifurcation)
- Witness statements / affidavits and chronologies
- Expert instruction briefs / Quantum/Delay bundle preparation
- Ship arrest pleadings and security/LOU templates
- Legal research memos and annotated authorities
How We Work — Practical Engagement Model
- Intake & Conflict Check — client provides contract, arbitration clause, and timeline.
- Scope & Quotation — fixed-fee or hourly quote for specific deliverables (e.g., Statement of Claim package).
- Document Collection — we prepare an evidence checklist; client uploads docs securely.
- Draft & Review — we prepare drafts, client/law firm reviews; we revise.
- Final Package — final pleadings, witness outlines, authorities bundle & filing checklist delivered in agreed format (PDF/Word).
- Post-Delivery Support — limited support for tribunal follow-ups or to prepare replies to opponent submissions.
Turnaround examples: short procedural memos within 24–48 hours; full statement of claim packages typically 7–14 days depending on complexity (subject to agreed scope).
Pricing Models (suggested & flexible)
- Fixed-fee per deliverable (e.g., Statement of Claim + bundle).
- Hourly for research or ad-hoc drafting.
- Block-hours / Retainer for ongoing arbitration portfolios.
All engagements begin with a written scope & fee estimate. Competitive rates; tailored quotes available on request.
Security, Confidentiality & Professional Compliance
- Confidential file transfer (encrypted cloud or secure FTP).
- NDA/Confidentiality Agreement executed before receiving confidential materials.
- Work delivered only to retained counsel or authorized in-house contacts; not for public posting without consent.
- Clear disclaimer: this service provides drafting/research support only — not UAE legal representation. For advocacy in UAE courts or acting as counsel in arbitration, engage a UAE-licensed lawyer. UAE Legislation.
FAQ common client questions (and safe answers)
Q: Can you act as counsel or appear in UAE arbitration/court?
A: No. All services are limited to drafting, legal research, and advisory support. Licensed UAE counsel must be retained for hearings and advocacy. UAE Legislation
Q: Do you handle ship arrest requests?
A: We prepare arrest applications, evidence bundles and LOUs for counsel to file; advice will reflect the 2023 maritime reforms (Federal Decree No. 43 of 2023). Final arrest filings should be executed by UAE-licensed local counsel.
Q: Which arbitration centres do you support?
A: DIAC (Dubai), ADGM (Abu Dhabi) and international fora (ICC, LCIA, SIAC) — we prepare submissions and procedural memos tailored to each institution’s rules.
Q: What documentation do you need to start?
A: Contract (with arbitration clause), relevant correspondence, schedule of events, invoices/payments, technical reports, and expert/third-party reports if any. We’ll provide a checklist on engagement.
Q: In what languages do you work?
A: Primary drafting in English; we can coordinate Arabic translations through vetted partners if Arabic filings are required.
Sample Project: Typical Statement of Claim (what you’ll receive)
- Cover letter & table of contents
- Chronology (events & contract references)
- Legal basis & causes of action (contractual, FIDIC clauses)
- Particulars of claim: facts, delay analysis, quantum summary
- Witness statement templates (fact witnesses & expert instructions)
- Authorities bundle (annotated cases & statutory citations)
- Filing checklist & suggested tribunal requests (interim relief if required)