Do I need an arbitration lawyer in Dubai and what do they do?

You are not legally required to use a lawyer to arbitrate, but for anything beyond a simple, low-value matter most parties do, because arbitration is procedurally technical and the stakes are usually high. An arbitration lawyer in Dubai helps at every stage: reviewing and drafting the arbitration clause, assessing whether you have jurisdiction to arbitrate, preparing the request for arbitration or the response, nominating suitable arbitrators, and managing disclosure, evidence, and witness or expert preparation. They present your case at the hearing, draft submissions, and argue points of UAE law and the applicable institutional rules, such as the DIAC Rules. They also handle the critical post-award stages: pursuing ratification and enforcement of an award you have won, or raising annulment grounds against an award you have lost, both of which have strict deadlines. Choosing counsel with genuine arbitration experience and familiarity with the relevant seat (onshore, DIFC, or ADGM) matters. To find the right fit, you can compare verified arbitration lawyers in Dubai and across the UAE on LEXAI.