What is the ADGM Arbitration Centre in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is a financial free zone in Abu Dhabi that operates as a separate common-law jurisdiction with its own laws and courts, distinct from the onshore UAE system. ADGM offers a modern arbitration framework based on international standards and hosts the ADGM Arbitration Centre, which provides hearing facilities and supports arbitrations seated there. Because ADGM is a separate jurisdiction, an arbitration seated in ADGM is governed by ADGM's arbitration regulations and supervised by the ADGM Courts, rather than by the onshore Federal Arbitration Law or the onshore courts. This common-law environment, with English as the working language, appeals to many international parties. Awards from ADGM-seated arbitrations can be recognised and enforced both within the UAE and abroad through the applicable enforcement gateways, including the New York Convention for cross-border recognition. Choosing an ADGM seat is a strategic decision that affects procedure, supervision, and enforcement. To weigh whether ADGM suits your contract, you can compare verified UAE arbitration professionals on LEXAI familiar with free-zone seats.