Starting point. Earlier this month, five international arbitrators joined together to form ArabArb, an association that aims to serve the US-based arbitration community with roots, affiliations, or interests in the Arab world.
“Years ago, we recognized a gap in our industry,” Randa Adra, a partner and one of the five founders of Crowell & Moring, said in a press release. “We are very proud to have decided to take advantage of this unique opportunity to unite Arab arbitrators in the US and beyond and create a supportive network for this community.”
Arab Friday’s mission is to promote the visibility of diverse and qualified counsel, arbitrators and experts particularly suited to resolving disputes related to the Arab world. The group works to create a forum for members to meet and collaborate with colleagues and to increase knowledge and understanding of international arbitration in relation to the Arab world.
Early work. ArabArb organized a launch event during New York Arbitration Week to introduce itself to the legal community, present its mission and welcome new members. The group plans to organize conferences and training seminars on topics relevant to the community, as well as provide mentoring opportunities and exposure to law students of Arab origin.
Next steps. Although the group is primarily based in the United States, it cooperates with members of the global international arbitration community, particularly those in Arab countries. In the future, the group plans to expand to other international arbitration centers.
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