Introduction: Starting a Mediation in Dubai

Starting a Mediation in Dubai entails doubt. Entering a mediation can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. Whether you’re dealing with a commercial dispute, relationship breakdown, or workplace issue, many people carry concerns: Will I be heard? Will I be at a disadvantage? Will what I say be used against me later? This guide aims to explain the mediation process, emphasise the key roles of the mediator, and reassure you that the structure is designed to address these very fears.

1. What is Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential and voluntary process in which a trained impartial mediator helps parties explore their differences, understand each other’s perspectives, and work toward a mutually acceptable agreement.
Unlike court proceedings, the mediator does not decide who is right or wrong nor impose a solution. Instead, they facilitate dialogue, guide the parties to identify realistic options, and support them in crafting a resolution that fits their specific context.

2. The Role of the Mediator: Neutrality & Balance

Neutrality, Important when Starting a Mediation in Dubai

The mediator’s primary responsibility is neutrality. They are neither judge nor advocate. Their role is to ensure both sides speak, listen, and engage on equal footing.
In practice, this means the mediator will:

Manage speaking time so no one dominates the discussion.
Intervene when one party is feeling overshadowed or unable to express themselves.
Ensure that the process remains focused, respectful and balanced.

Facing Fears of Imbalance

One of the most common concerns entering mediation is the fear that the other side — perhaps more experienced, confident or supported — will dominate the process. Mediators are aware of this and actively work to prevent such imbalance:

If one party speaks much more, the mediator will invite the other to share their views and ensure they are heard.
If legal, technical or linguistic issues create a disadvantage, the mediator will slow the pace and ensure understanding for all.
If emotions or power dynamics threaten to derail the conversation, the mediator may break the session into private meetings (caucuses) to level the playing field.
You do not have to “fight for airtime”—the mediator sets the environment so each participant has a meaningful voice.

3. Confidentiality: A Safe Space for Dialogue

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of effective mediation. What is said in the process stays in the process. This allows you to speak candidly, explore options, make concessions, and test proposals without fear that your words will be used later against you.
Usually, confidentiality covers:

The content of the discussions.
Any documents, notes or offers shared during mediation.
This safeguard empowers open, honest dialogue — a key to reaching meaningful resolution.

4. Guidance Without Imposition

A mediator’s input is facilitative, not directive. They may:

Clarify complex issues or legal/ commercial realities.
Help reframe positions or shift perspectives when conversations stall.
Encourage creative options beyond the usual “win/lose” framing.
But at no point will the mediator impose a settlement. The power remains with you and the other party. This ownership of the outcome is often what makes mediated agreements more durable and cooperative than decisions imposed by courts or arbitrators.

5. How the Mediation Is Set Up: Starting a Mediation in Dubai

Opening Session

Typically, there is a joint opening where the mediator:

Explains the process, ground-rules, neutrality and confidentiality.
Invites each party to share their view of the issues, uninterrupted.

Private Sessions (Caucuses)

If needed, the mediator will meet each side privately to:

Explore deeper concerns or admitted flexibility.
Test settlement ideas without the other party present.
Address imbalance or emotional issues safely.

Joint and Private Session Flow

You may move between joint and private sessions until an agreement emerges or you decide more time is needed. The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to engage, and the progress made.

Timeline and Pace

Mediation can often conclude in a few hours; more complex cases may span several sessions over days or weeks. The pace is set by the parties — not imposed upon them.

6. What Happens at the End?

If you reach a settlement, it will typically be documented in writing — often as a settlement agreement that may be legally binding if you choose.
Even if no agreement is reached that day, mediation usually:

Clarifies the remaining issues.
Improves communication and understanding.
Lays groundwork for further negotiation or formal dispute resolution.
In short, mediation is rarely a wasted effort — it either resolves the dispute or advances it meaningfully.

Conclusion to Starting a Mediation in Dubai

Mediation offers a way forward — not as a concession, but as a constructive choice. With a neutral mediator, strong confidentiality, and a process designed to protect each party’s voice, you’re placed on an equal footing to shape the resolution.

At Rubert & Partners, we combine legal insight, mediation experience and a commitment to fairness. Whether you’re entering a commercial, family or workplace dispute, we are here to guide you toward resolution with dignity, clarity and control.

We hope this guide helps you understand the starting of mediation in Dubai and the UAE. If you have questions about your specific situation, we are here to assist.

For more practical content in English, explore our Publications and the Videos by our Partner, Maria Rubert.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Each situation is unique and you should seek tailored advice for your specific case.