Saudi Arabia’s arbitration framework is entering a new phase. The Country Report of the Saudi Center for Commercial Arbitration (“SCCA”), published in July 2026 (“Report”), analyses 967 Court of Appeal decisions issued between January 2023 and June 2025 and compares the Saudi Arbitration Law with the UNCITRAL Model Law and the proposed Draft Saudi Arbitration […]
Saudi Construction Arbitration in Practice: Claims and Remedies under the Civil Transactions Law and the Enforcement of Awards
Construction and engineering disputes play a major role in Saudi arbitration. In 2025, these cases made up 47% of those registered with the Saudi Center for Commercial Arbitration (“SCCA”), making it the top sector.[1] This is because large projects often involve many parties, interrelated contracts, detailed technical records, and strict schedules. Arbitration works well for […]
The Iran Conflict and Arbitration Disputes
In addition to its human toll, the current conflict involving Iran creates immediate commercial and legal challenges for companies operating in the Middle East. It directly affects contract performance, payment flows, shipping, energy supply and dispute resolution. In sectors such as energy, infrastructure, commodities and maritime transport, these impacts are already tangible, appearing in delayed […]
International Arbitration in Saudi Arabia: A Rising Hub in the Middle East
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leading jurisdiction in the Middle East for international arbitration. Driven by its Vision 2030 economic diversification agenda, the Kingdom has undertaken significant legal and institutional reforms aimed at fostering an arbitration-friendly environment aligned with global best practices. This article provides an overview of the legal framework, […]
Claiming Interest in Arbitrations in the Middle East
Sharia law shapes the legal frameworks in the Middle East. Traditionally, it was the primary uncodified source of law in the region. However, throughout the 20th century, many Middle Eastern countries developed their own Civil Codes, which continue to be rooted in Sharia principles. One of the key areas where Sharia law exerts substantial influence […]