Dubai Arbitration Week 2026

Welcome and introduction

Speaker:

• Susie Abdel-Nabi, Partner and Head of the Commercial Arbitration and Litigation Group - Middle East, Clyde & Co

Panel one: “Due process paranoia” in construction arbitration?

As parties continue to strive for a faster and more cost-effective dispute resolution process, this session will examine whether modern construction arbitration continues to respond to that need or whether it currently risks losing its competitive advantage over litigation as a result of a fixation by Tribunals on due process.

This panel discussion will draw on practical experience from first-rate Arbitrator, Counsel and Expert individuals, who will discuss procedural efficiency in the arbitration process, focusing on expert evidence and picking up on Lord Neuberger’s comments at LIDW 2026 in which he encouraged arbitrators to be more courageous in managing the arbitration process.

Moderator: Alexa Hall, Partner, Energy and Construction, Clyde & Co

Speakers:

• Tom Anderson, Senior Associate, Energy and Construction, Clyde & Co
• Sean Brannigan KC, Barrister, 4 Pump Court
• Guy Elkington, Senior Managing Director, Ankura
• Sarah-Jane Fick, Head of Arbitration, Dubai Holding

Panel two: Procedural Efficiency in Commercial Arbitration

As clients continue to demand faster and more cost-effective dispute resolution, this session will examine the procedural tools, strategies and innovations available to parties and tribunals.

Through a discussion of summary disposal, interim measures, mediation and alternative procedural approaches, the panel will explore how disputes can be resolved more efficiently without compromising the quality or fairness of the process.

Moderator: Keith Hutchison, Partner, Arbitration and Litigation Group, Clyde & Co

Speakers:

• Sherif Alk, Director Arbitration & ADR Middle East, ICC
• Robert Lewsley, Senior Legal Counsel, Head, Disputes and Government Investigations Legal, Africa & Middle East, Standard Chartered Bank
• Lucy Nash, Legal Director, Arbitration and Litigation, Clyde & Co
• Tom Parkin, Senior Associate, Arbitration and Litigation, Clyde & Co