Sharjah has taken a major step toward becoming a global leader in solving business and legal conflicts. The emirate has officially launched the Sharjah International Commercial Centre for Arbitration and Conflict Resolution (SICCA). This new institution aims to offer fast, fair, and friendly ways to resolve disputes — without the need for lengthy court cases.
This move is not just good for Sharjah, but for the entire UAE and the region. The goal is to help companies, investors, and individuals settle their differences in a peaceful and professional environment.
A New Path for Justice in the Region
The announcement was made during a high-profile event in Sharjah attended by government officials, legal experts, business leaders, and international guests. The center will operate under the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), further reinforcing the emirate’s focus on supporting the business community.
The SICCA aims to solve commercial disputes — such as disagreements between companies or between a business and a customer — using arbitration and mediation. These methods are becoming more popular around the world because they save time and money compared to going to court.
What makes SICCA special is that it plans to blend international best practices with local values and legal frameworks. This makes it both globally competitive and regionally relevant.
Why Arbitration and Mediation Matter Today
In today’s fast-paced global economy, conflicts between businesses or between companies and individuals can lead to big losses in time, money, and reputation. Traditionally, such cases would go through courts, which often means years of waiting and high legal fees.
Arbitration and mediation offer a better path. In arbitration, both sides agree to let a neutral third party make a decision. In mediation, the goal is to help both sides reach an agreement themselves. Both are private, faster, and often cheaper than traditional legal methods.
With the launch of SICCA, Sharjah is promoting a smarter, more peaceful way of doing business and solving problems — one that is already common in many advanced economies.
Supporting Business, Boosting Investment
Sharjah has always been known for its welcoming business environment, strategic location, and well-connected infrastructure. The establishment of SICCA adds another feather to its cap.
By providing a reliable and professional arbitration center, Sharjah is sending a strong message to global investors: “We are ready to support you, even in tough times.”
This is especially important in today’s world, where companies look not only at profits but also at legal safety when choosing where to invest or set up operations. SICCA helps ensure that if something goes wrong, there’s a fair system to sort it out — quickly and professionally.
Regional and Global Appeal
The SICCA is not just for people in Sharjah or the UAE. It aims to become a leading arbitration center for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and beyond.
The center will bring together a team of top-level experts, judges, and legal minds from around the world. It will also follow international standards such as those of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).
In doing so, Sharjah hopes to attract global attention and become part of the world’s major legal networks — standing side-by-side with cities like Geneva, London, and Singapore, which are known for their arbitration centers.
Training and Development for Future Leaders
Another key focus of SICCA is to train and develop local talent in the field of arbitration and mediation. The center plans to organize workshops, legal training programs, and certifications for young Emirati professionals and law graduates.
By doing so, Sharjah is building not just a center — but a whole ecosystem for conflict resolution that will serve future generations. The aim is to grow a strong base of trained mediators, arbitrators, and legal advisors who can support the region’s evolving needs.
This is in line with the UAE’s long-term vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy and a global hub for innovation and professional services.
Backed by Strong Leadership and Vision
The launch of SICCA is a clear reflection of the forward-thinking leadership in Sharjah. Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Sharjah has consistently focused on education, culture, and community-driven progress.
The creation of an international arbitration center fits perfectly with this vision. It shows how the emirate is constantly finding new ways to grow while staying true to its values.
The leadership believes that justice, trust, and dialogue are essential for any successful society. SICCA is designed to bring those values into the world of business and law, in a practical and powerful way.
Encouraging a Culture of Peaceful Dialogue
Perhaps the most important message behind SICCA is this: conflicts don’t always have to end in courtrooms.
By promoting mediation and arbitration, Sharjah is encouraging a culture where people talk, listen, and find common ground. This can have a ripple effect across the region — showing that even in disagreement, there can be respect, dignity, and resolution.
The center hopes to change mindsets and create new habits for resolving issues — not only in business but also in wider society.
A Bright Step Into the Future
Sharjah’s new arbitration center represents more than just a legal facility. It is a bold step toward a smarter, fairer, and more connected future. With its commitment to justice, quality, and innovation, SICCA is poised to make a big impact — locally, regionally, and globally.
As businesses become more international and disputes more complex, the world needs centers that can keep up. With SICCA, Sharjah is proving that it is ready to take on that challenge — and lead the way.
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