Sharjah:H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Judicial Council, participated in a panel discussion titled "Alternative Dispute Resolution An International Perspective" at the Expo Centre Sharjah. The event was part of the cultural activities accompanying the Sharjah International Book Fair 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, the panel focused on the significance of evolving the justice system to incorporate comprehensive models of dispute resolution beyond traditional litigation. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed emphasized the necessity of embracing global advancements to build stable societies, highlighting the role of flexible alternatives in reaching consensual solutions, accelerating dispute resolution, and reducing court burdens.
Judge Ali Shamis Al Madhani, Deputy Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts, discussed the progression towards diverse dispute resolution mechanisms, citing arbitration as a recognized alternative. He stressed the importance of strong frameworks for arbitration and called for greater involvement of state institutions in early dispute resolution to alleviate court caseloads.
Dr Bana Yousuf Buzaboon, a psychological expert, emphasized the role of alternative dispute resolution in family conflicts, focusing on preserving family stability and minimizing harm to children. She advocated for individualized interventions that respect cultural considerations and urged the adaptation of international practices to local customs.
Dr Imad El-Din Hussein, a consultant at the Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy, highlighted the importance of an integrated legislative framework. He noted that global competitiveness relies on diverse dispute resolution options, advocating for mediation to avoid lengthy litigation and citing Italy's model of mandatory mediation for certain disputes.
The session concluded with an initiative by Hind bint Kalban, a visually impaired student, to provide the Personal Status Law in Braille, aiming to enhance access to legal knowledge for people with disabilities and promote equal opportunities in the legal field.