Tariq Khan Shares Dubai’s Blueprint for a World-Class Arbitration Ecosystem at GCAI Conclave

Speaking at the General Counsels’ Association of India (GCAI) flagship conclave, Nyaya Nirmaan: Reimagining India’s Legal Foundations for Viksit Bharat @ 2047, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Tariq Khan, Head of International Arbitration, M&CO. Legal,joined representatives from major global arbitral institutions to share perspectives on international dispute resolution. Drawing from his extensive experience as both a practitioner before the DIFC Courts and a regular user of DIAC arbitration rules, Khan delivered compelling insights on what other jurisdictions can learn from Dubai’s position as a leading global arbitration hub. Khan also highlighted a specific opportunity for enhanced bilateral cooperation, noting that India’s Viksit Bharat @2047mission and vision would be greatly served if India notify the UAE as a reciprocating territory for the enforcement of arbitral awards.

The Dubai Model: A Robust Legal Ecosystem

Addressing the gathering of general counsels, judges and legal professionals, Khan highlighted how the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts have created an exceptionally robust arbitration ecosystem that other jurisdictions can learn from. The DIAC provides world-class arbitration services while the DIFC Courts offer sophisticated judicial support in creating a comprehensive dispute resolution environment.  Khan emphasized that success requires a complete dispute resolution ecosystem where multiple factors work interdependently:

1. Robust and Trusted Arbitration Law

The foundation must be solid arbitration legislation that inspires confidence.

2. Pro-Enforcement Judicial Stance

Khan emphasized the critical importance of courts that actively support arbitration. The DIFC Courts’ consistently pro-enforcement approach and deep understanding of modern international best practices gives parties confidence that awards will be recognized and enforced efficiently. Their exceptional efficiency in granting interim and precautionary measures in aid of arbitration proceedings further demonstrates their commitment to supporting the arbitral process.

3. State-of-the-Art Rules and Exceptional Case Management

Institutions must maintain cutting-edge rules that evolve with best practices. Khan particularly praised DIAC’s approach stating that DIAC’s rules are comprehensive yet streamlined, and updated to reflect evolving international standards. Their case management is world-class, ensuring efficient resolution.

4. Diverse, High-Quality Arbitrator Panel

Khan stressed the importance of maintaining a diverse pool of internationally recognized arbitrators of unquestionable integrity.

5. Training Over Infrastructure

Contrary to common belief, Khan pointed out that physical infrastructure, while important, isn’t the most important.

Building a world-class arbitration hub requires more than infrastructure and it demands a comprehensive ecosystem where law, judiciary, and institutions collaborate to serve international businesses. For jurisdictions aspiring to become regional arbitration centres, Dubai’s integrated approach offers both inspiration and a practical blueprint for sustainable growth in the global dispute resolution market.