DIAC-Paris-Panthéon-Assas University Strategic Partnership

The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC), the foremost arbitral institution in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA), has entered into a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France’s premier and oldest law university, Paris-Panthéon-Assas University. This agreement aims to enhance education in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), facilitate knowledge sharing, and promote research initiatives focused on international arbitration.

Collaborative Initiatives

Under this agreement, both organizations will collaborate on various strategic initiatives. These include developing comprehensive arbitration training programs, co-hosting arbitration-related events, and conducting joint research. Such efforts aim to deepen the legal community's understanding and awareness of arbitration practices.

Educational Excellence and Expertise

Paris-Panthéon-Assas University is recognized as France's first and oldest law institution, with a significant presence in the 4EU+ European University Alliance. It boasts a diverse student body of over 23,000 and a faculty of 1,500 professors across four international campuses located in France, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Mauritius. This rich academic heritage, combined with DIAC’s thirty years of leadership in international ADR, makes this partnership a crucial factor in advancing the missions of both institutions to promote arbitration and legal excellence globally.

Commenting on the MoU, H.E. Dr Tariq Humaid Al Tayer said: "It is a privilege to partner with Paris Panthéon-Assas University, a leading global institution with a rich legacy in legal education and research. Together, we are committed to advancing the field of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution by fostering knowledge exchange and developing the next generation of leaders. Through this partnership, DIAC is dedicated to supporting the growth of ADR expertise and strengthening connections within the international legal community."

For his part, Prof. Guillaume Leyte, President of Paris-Panthéon-Assas University’s Dubai Campus, said: "It is a great honour for Paris Panthéon-Assas University to establish a partnership with DIAC. This prestigious centre – a symbol of the dynamism of the Emirate of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as a whole – and the first and oldest law university in France share a common interest in arbitration and alternative dispute resolution methods, and this promises to lead to fruitful projects. The University, both in Paris and here at its Emirati campus, is thrilled by the prospects opened up by this partnership, in terms of both education and research and greatly appreciates the warm welcome extended by DIAC's leadership."

Strengthening Global Arbitration

As the leading arbitral institution in MEASA, DIAC plays an essential role in furthering Dubai’s strategic goals as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33). By forming international partnerships like the one with Paris-Panthéon-Assas University, DIAC enhances the Emirate’s reputation in global arbitration. This collaboration ensures a solid legal framework that fosters economic growth and bolsters investor confidence.