Steel joins Dubai World Tribunal

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Sir David Steel, a Dubai International Financial Centre judge, has been appointed as the fourth member of the Special Tribunal related to Dubai World, the chairman of the tribunal announced on Monday.

Sir Anthony Evans said that the appointment of Sir David Steel would help ensure the efficient adjudication of disputes related to the settlement of the financial position of Dubai World and its subsidiaries.

Some 80 cases have been filed with the tribunal to date, which also includes Michael Hwang SC and Sir John Chadwick.

“With over four decades of experience, including a lifelong focus on commercial arbitration, he will unquestionably provide significant additional support to the Tribunal’s ability to hear and resolve disputes rapidly and to the very highest international standard,” Sir Anthony said.

Sir David was appointed in 2011 to the bench of the DIFC Courts, having previously served as Judge of the Commercial and Admiralty Courts, London from 1998 to 2011.

From 2004 to 2006, he served as the Judge in charge of the Commercial and Admiralty Courts. He also served as Chairman of the European Commercial Judges Forum from 2009-2011.

“I am honoured to accept this position at the Special Tribunal Related to Dubai World, and look forward to serving alongside my esteemed colleagues, who continue to successfully carry out the mandate of the Tribunal – establishing its reputation as a wholly transparent body that is committed to the fair and impartial application of the law,” said Sir David.

In addition to disputes adjudicated by the Tribunal, the associated Small Claims Panel hears primarily employment-related disputes.

The members of that Panel include: Justice Omar Al Muhairi, Justice Ali Al Madhani, Justice Dr Jamal Al Sumaity and Justice Abdulla Ahmed Alkaytob.