The Abu Dhabi International Arbitration Centre (arbitrateAD) has appointed Maria Mazzawi as its Registrar, effective 17 February 2025. With over a decade of experience in international dispute resolution, Ms. Mazzawi brings deep regional expertise and a proven track record in arbitration across sectors such as construction, technology, media, and banking and as arbitrator in UAE-seated arbitrations. She is a native Arabic speaker, in addition to being fluent in both English and French.

A recognised leader in the field, Ms. Mazzawi has been listed in the Legal500 Middle East Arbitration Power Lists, is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and a member of its UAE branch committee. In her new role, she will oversee arbitrateAD’s Case Management Office, supporting the Centre’s growing caseload and reinforcing its position as a leading arbitration hub.

Ms. Mazzawi said: “I am excited to join the arbitrateAD and contribute to its mission of becoming a global leader in arbitration. I look forward to working with the Centre’s talented team and distinguished Court of Arbitration. I believe the Centre is well-positioned to capture a large portion of the arbitration market in the Middle East and beyond, and I look forward to contributing to its success.”

Gary Born, vice-chair of arbitrateAD’s Board of Directors, who was instrumental in the establishment of the Centre, says that “the addition of Ms. Mazzawi, with an impressive skill set and deep regional knowledge, to serve as Registrar is another important milestone for the Centre. We look forward to working closely with her.”

Maria Chedid, President of the Court of Arbitration of arbitrateAD and Arnold & Porter arbitration practice chair, welcomes Ms. Mazzawi and said: "The position of Registrar is of central importance to the Court’s functions. I am looking forward to working closely with Maria as she leads the Case Management Office’s work on the Centre’s rapidly growing caseload. I am also pleased that, with this appointment, the Centre takes a further step to promote the advancement of practitioners from the region."

Executive Director of the Centre, Kristin Campbell-Wilson, added: "We are delighted to welcome Maria. She brings extensive dispute resolution experience from private practice in the region and multi-language capabilities. She is an excellent addition to the arbitrateAD team."