ICC UAE: Operational Updates for Arbitration Cases – ADGM Office Closure

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Court has adjusted operational arrangements for its case management office in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) due to ongoing regional developments. The primary focus remains the safety of ICC staff and ensuring business continuity for international arbitration proceedings.

Currently, the physical office at ADGM is closed, and all staff members are working remotely. Despite the office closure, the ICC Court is maintaining full operational capacity to handle ongoing and new arbitration cases.

Communication Protocols

Parties involved in ICC arbitrations administered by the ADGM office are advised to utilize specific communication channels. General inquiries should be directed via email to ica12@iccwbo.org or by phone at +971 50 500 3705, +971 56 333 2781, or +971 50 156 4627.

For matters related to pending cases, all communication should continue to be channeled through the ICC Case Connect platform. The ICC strongly encourages parties to contact the office via email or phone before dispatching any correspondence – including arbitral awards – intended for hand delivery, courier, or postal service. This ensures proper receipt and processing of critical documents.

Filing New Arbitration Requests

New requests for arbitration, including all supporting documentation and exhibits, must be submitted electronically through ICC Case Connect. This streamlined process ensures secure and efficient handling of new filings.

Applications for emergency arbitrators, along with accompanying exhibits, should be submitted via email to emergencyarbitrator@iccwbo.org. This dedicated email address facilitates a rapid response to urgent requests for interim measures.

Hearing Arrangements and ADGM Hearing Centre

All meetings previously scheduled to grab place at the ADGM office will now be conducted virtually. This shift to virtual meetings minimizes disruption and maintains accessibility for all participants.

Parties with hearings scheduled at the ADGM Hearing Centre are advised to contact the centre directly for updated information and arrangements. The ICC Court is coordinating with the ADGM Hearing Centre to ensure a smooth transition and continued availability of state-of-the-art facilities for arbitration proceedings. Contact information for the ADGM Hearing Centre can be found at https://disputeresolution.adgm.com/.

ICC’s Commitment to Continuity

The ICC Court emphasizes its commitment to minimizing disruption and maintaining the integrity of its arbitration services during this period. The organization recognizes the importance of providing a reliable and efficient dispute resolution mechanism for businesses operating in the Middle East, the Gulf region, and beyond.

The establishment of the ADGM case management office in December 2020, as a fifth overseas opening following Hong Kong (2008), New York (2014), Sao Paolo (2017), and Singapore (2018), underscored the ICC’s dedication to expanding its global reach and providing localized support to its users. The UAE’s prominence as a frequent location for parties involved in ICC-administered arbitrations – ranking 8th and 9th in 2018 and 2019 respectively out of 142 and 147 countries – further highlights the strategic importance of the ADGM office.

The existing activities of the ICC Middle East and North Africa (MENA) representative office, established in ADGM in 2017, have been integrated into the ICC Court’s new case management structure. This integration strengthens the ICC’s presence in the region and enhances its ability to serve the needs of its users.

The ICC and ADGM have as well committed to collaborative promotional activities, training programs, and educational initiatives aimed at strengthening arbitration standards and dispute resolution services in the MENA region. Both organizations will continue to facilitate the hosting of arbitration hearings and meetings at the ADGM Arbitration Centre.

The ICC expresses its gratitude for the understanding and trust of all parties involved in ICC arbitrations and reaffirms its dedication to providing world-class dispute resolution services. Those interested in receiving the latest ICC news can sign up for email alerts here.