What happened to DIFC-LCIA arbitration after Dubai Decree 34 of 2021?

Dubai Decree No. 34 of 2021 restructured arbitration in Dubai by consolidating the emirate's arbitration institutions into the Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC). As part of that reform, the bodies that previously administered arbitration in Dubai, including the DIFC-LCIA Arbitration Centre and the Emirates Maritime Arbitration Centre, were dissolved and their functions transferred to DIAC. This created uncertainty for parties whose existing contracts still referred to the DIFC-LCIA. The general approach following the decree has been that DIAC took over the administration of such cases, applying its own framework, while parties remain free to agree otherwise. If your contract names the DIFC-LCIA, the practical question is how that clause now operates and which rules and seat apply, which can affect appointment of arbitrators and procedure. Because the transition can raise jurisdictional arguments, it is worth getting a clear read on your specific clause before a dispute escalates. You can compare verified UAE arbitration professionals on LEXAI who can advise on contracts affected by Decree 34 of 2021.