Enhanced decision solidifies UAE's reputation as a favorable location for arbitration disputes
In a significant development, the Commission for the unification of Local and Federal Judicial Principles, based at the Federal Supreme Court in Abu Dhabi, has put an end to a long-standing contradiction regarding the signature requirement in UAE arbitration awards.
The decision, made on August 4, 2025, establishes a precedent that arbitration awards do not require signatures on every page to be enforceable under United Arab Emirates (UAE) law. This decision interprets the relevant provisions of the UAE Arbitration Law and is expected to reinforce the UAE's position as an arbitration-friendly jurisdiction.
The case in question concerned the validity of an arbitration award where not all arbitrators signed every page. The ruling by the Commission stated that the signature of the arbitrators on the final page of the arbitral award is sufficient for enforceability under UAE law.
Faisal Attia, an expert in arbitration at Pinsent Masons, affirmed the validity of the arbitration award in question and also stated that the decision establishes a precedent for future cases.
Before this decision, there existed contradicting judgments on this matter in the UAE. Some panels of the Court of Cassation held that all pages of an arbitration award must be signed, while others ruled that it is sufficient for arbitrators to sign only the final page.
The absence of signatures on intermediate pages does not invalidate the award if the final page is signed and the award is coherent and complete. The decision aims to streamline arbitration procedures and reduce unnecessary formalities.
The decision applies to arbitration awards in the United Arab Emirates. It is important to note that the award must clearly reflect the consensus of all arbitrators. The decision was solicited by the Commission of the unification of Local and Federal Judicial Principles for the purpose of unifying the application of the signature requirement.
This development is expected to bring clarity and consistency to UAE arbitration practice, further enhancing its reputation as a preferred destination for international arbitration.
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