Doha, September 28 (QNA) - In line with its ongoing commitment to advancing alternative dispute resolution and promoting arbitration as an effective and fair mechanism for resolving disputes, the Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC), in collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb), organised the first Arabic-language intensive training programme qualifying participants for CIArb membership via the accelerated route in international commercial arbitration.

The programme offered an in-depth study of core topics, including the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration and the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules; the arbitration agreement and its legal effects; the commencement of proceedings and appointment of arbitrators; the duties of the tribunal and responsibilities of the parties; the tribunal’s jurisdiction and powers; procedural conduct (meetings, timetables, submissions, expert evidence, disclosure and hearings); costs management; the requirements for an enforceable award; and avenues for challenge and enforcement.

The workshop drew wide participation, including representatives of the State Cases Department at the Ministry of Justice, as well as a range of government and private entities in Qatar and leading Qatari law firms. It also welcomed experts and specialists from across the GCC, alongside representatives of prominent international consultancies in engineering, finance, technical, and legal fields, reflecting the importance of the programme in strengthening professional capabilities and practical practice in arbitration and dispute resolution.

Faisal bin Rashid Al-Sahouti, CEO of QICDRC, underscored the significance of the initiative, stating: “Offering internationally accredited training in collaboration with one of the world's leading arbitration institutions equips participants with rigorous, practice-ready qualifications. It supports the development of highly qualified arbitrators who will add tangible value to Qatar's arbitration sector. Such initiatives further enhance Qatar's standing as an attractive investment hub by reinforcing confidence in alternative dispute resolution, now the first choice for many international investors given its flexibility, efficiency, and fairness.”

This programme is part of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2017 between the Court and CIArb, which aims to provide high-quality resources to the legal community in Qatar and internationally, particularly specialised arbitration training delivered in both Arabic and English in line with international best practice.

The MoU represents a strategic partnership to elevate the quality of specialised training in arbitration and to build capacity among lawyers, accountants, engineers, expert witnesses and disputes consultants in Qatar. Under this partnership, CIArb collaborates with the Court to develop flagship programmes in arbitration and mediation, and to organise specialised events that reinforce Qatar's position as a regional and global centre for alternative dispute resolution.

The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators is one of the world’s leading institutions for training and accrediting arbitrators, with approximately 17,000 members across more than 40 branches worldwide, including a Qatar Branch dedicated to supporting the local legal community and strengthening capabilities in arbitration and dispute resolution in line with the highest international standards. (QNA)