The New DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Rules 2016

The DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre has issued its new rules which will apply to all arbitrations commencing on or after 1 October 2016

The DIFC-LCIA'S 2016 Rules

On 1 October 2016, the DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre ("DIFC-LCIA") released its new DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Rules (the "2016 Rules"). The 2016 Rules introduce: (1) a procedure for appointing an emergency arbitrator; (2) a procedure for consolidation of multi-party disputes; (3) measures to increase efficiency and avoid delays; and (4) sanctions to punish counsel for poor conduct. It is a key objective of DIFC-LCIA to administer cost effective and timely arbitrations. Since its re-launch in November 2015 Mohamed ElGhatit, its new Director and Registrar, has been tasked with carefully monitoring and administering cases to ensure they proceed as expeditiously and cost effectively as possible. The changes introduced by the 2016 Rules, which mirror the recent amendments to the LCIA Rules and reflect international