How do you start arbitration proceedings in Dubai?

To start arbitration in Dubai you first confirm you have a valid arbitration agreement covering the dispute, then follow whatever procedure that agreement and any chosen institution require. For an institutional arbitration such as one administered by DIAC, you commence by filing a request for arbitration with the centre that identifies the parties, the contract and arbitration clause, a summary of the dispute, the relief you seek, and your nomination regarding the tribunal, accompanied by the centre's required filing fee. The respondent then files an answer, the tribunal is appointed, and the case proceeds under the applicable rules. For ad hoc arbitration with no institution, the Federal Arbitration Law and your clause govern how proceedings begin, often through a written notice of arbitration. Strict attention to the contract's pre-conditions, such as any agreed negotiation or notice period before arbitration, is important because skipping a required step can create a jurisdiction challenge. Given the procedural detail involved, many parties instruct counsel from the outset. You can compare verified UAE arbitration professionals on LEXAI to guide the filing.