By Ali Al Hammadi
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has announced the graduation of the first group of certified private mediators specialising in civil and commercial disputes. This milestone marks a significant step in promoting alternative dispute resolution and supporting Abu Dhabi鈥檚 vision of a modern, investor-friendly legal environment. The training programme, which saw 21 mediators complete its inaugural cohort, forms part of the Department鈥檚 efforts to enhance access to amicable settlement services and reduce reliance on traditional litigation. Officials said this approach not only eases the burden on the courts but also helps accelerate dispute resolution, creating a more efficient and attractive business landscape..Abu Dhabi Prosecution launches smart services package as part of 鈥淶ero Bureaucracy鈥 initiative. Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, said the programme was developed under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Judicial Department in Abu Dhabi. 鈥淥ur goal is to build a robust legal ecosystem rooted in innovation, excellence, and international best practices,鈥 said Al Abri. 鈥淭his programme equips mediators with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to handle civil and commercial disputes effectively, ensuring fairness and professionalism.鈥 Participants completed 31 training sessions over 49 hours, covering core areas such as the stages of mediation, principles of neutrality and confidentiality, and the mediator鈥檚 civil and professional responsibilities. The curriculum also included guidance on communication techniques to engage disputing parties constructively and foster mutual understanding. Al Abri added: 鈥淭he training combined theoretical learning with hands-on exercises to prepare mediators to lead sessions confidently and draft clear, legally binding settlement agreements.鈥 Mediators were also trained on the legal framework governing mediation, both locally and internationally, as well as the procedural requirements for recording settlements. The programme featured practical case studies, real-life scenarios, and insights into how technology can be used to conduct remote mediation sessions鈥攁 capability that has become increasingly important in recent years. By investing in specialised training for private mediators, the Department aims to advance Abu Dhabi鈥檚 standing as a hub for investment and innovation. The initiative aligns with broader strategies to diversify judicial services and create a legal system that supports the emirate鈥檚 economic aspirations. Officials highlighted that the graduation of the first cohort reflects the Department鈥檚 commitment to providing high-quality dispute resolution options and empowering the private sector to play an active role in resolving conflicts efficiently. 鈥淎lternative dispute resolution contributes to social stability and economic prosperity,鈥 said Al Abri. 鈥淲e are proud to see this new group of mediators ready to support individuals and businesses in finding fair solutions to their disputes.鈥 The Judicial Department confirmed that further training rounds will follow to expand the pool of qualified mediators and ensure the continued development of alternative dispute resolution services in Abu Dhabi.