Mediation

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a dispute resolution process whereby the Parties to a Difference agree to engage the assistance of a Mediator to facilitate the amicable resolution of the Difference. The mediator facilitates structured dialogue, assists the parties in identifying issues and interests, and supports them in exploring mutually acceptable settlement options.

By choosing mediation, parties opt for a process that is flexible, cost-effective, confidential and collaborative, while retaining full control over both the outcome of the dispute and the terms of any settlement reached. Mediation is particularly well suited to disputes where commercial relationships are ongoing, where practical or creative solutions are sought, or where the parties wish to resolve disputes efficiently without adversarial features of other dispute resolution forums.

The parties’ agreement to mediate may be made in advance through a contractual clause, often incorporated into a multi-tier dispute resolution mechanism, or entered into after a dispute has arisen.

Mediation at arbitrateAD

Mediation at the Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre is administered under the Centre’s Mediation Rules (2026). The Centre provides institutional support throughout the mediation process, including the appointment of independent mediators, administrative case management, and oversight by the Court of Arbitration. The process is flexible, efficient and strictly confidential, with transparent costs.

Mediation under the Mediation Rules may proceed as a standalone process or in parallel with arbitration or court proceedings, without prejudice to the parties’ rights to seek interim or conservatory measures where appropriate.

Settlement agreements reached through arbitrateAD mediation may, where applicable, benefit from internation enforceability.