Muscat Arbitration Days conference begins

Muscat— Deliberations of the first edition of "Muscat Arbitration Days" conference commenced today. Organized by Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre (OAC), the conference was inaugurated under the patronage of Abdul Salam Mohammed Al Murshidi, Chairman of Oman Investment Authority.

The two-day conference aims to enhance the position of the Sultanate of Oman as a regional and international center for dispute settlement by hosting leaders of regional and international arbitration centers, an elite group of speakers, and decision-makers in this field. It also seeks to expand the partnerships of Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre locally and internationally to bolster its competence.

Dr. Khalid Salim Al Saidi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre, pointed out that convening the conference stems from a clear vision of the Centre, which is based on enhancing its role as a leading institution in supporting the arbitration and dispute resolution system and developing the legal environment that meets the needs of economic and investment development in the Sultanate of Oman.

In his opening remark, he stated that the Sultanate of Oman, with its modern and developed legal system and ambitious economic vision, fully realizes the importance of arbitration. Therefore, it has considered arbitration a fundamental pillar and one of the targets of "Oman Vision 2040," which aims to build a competitive, knowledge-based economy that attracts investment and is centered on the principle of the rule of law, institutional efficiency, and sustainable development.

The conference discusses a range of specialized topics in the field of arbitration, including arbitration in the maritime sector, arbitration in the oil and gas sector, arbitration in insurance, and arbitration in finance and contracts. Additionally, it addresses legislative developments, the role of arbitral institutions, and the future of arbitration in light of the digital transformation.

Muscat Arbitration Days conference is expected to constitute a leading professional platform that gathers experts and specialists, thereby enhancing the development of the arbitration system in the Sultanate of Oman and solidifying its position as a pivotal hub for commercial arbitration at both regional and international levels.

During the opening session, Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre signed some Memoranda of Understanding with institutions and commercial arbitration centers in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Arab, and Asian countries. These MoUs focus on enhancing cross-border cooperation, developing institutional capabilities, and elevating the status of the Sultanate of Oman as a reliable and influential arbitration center in the region.

Through these Memoranda of Understanding, Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre and its partner institutions commit to exchanging best practices, supporting training and capacity building, encouraging knowledge exchange regarding procedural innovation, and creating opportunities for joint programs and events.

These partnerships will enhance the international presence of Oman Commercial Arbitration Centre, expand access to global expertise, and contribute to building a more interconnected, efficient, and modern arbitration ecosystem, in line with Oman Vision 2040.

The conference features 45 speakers from inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman, representing an elite group of presidents and representatives of international arbitration centers and specialized experts, across 11 dialogue sessions addressing the latest developments in commercial arbitration and dispute resolution.

The opening of the conference was attended by some ministers, senior officials and specialists in the legal and investment sectors.