QICDRC Strengthens Legal Skills Through Specialised Training

The Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC) has concluded its 2026 Training Programme on International Commercial Courts, held from 20–22 October at Pullman Doha West Bay Hotel.

The three-day programme brought together 25 qualified lawyers and legal practitioners for a series of lectures, seminars and practical workshops focused on litigation before international commercial courts, with particular reference to the procedures and practices of the Qatar International Court and the QFC Regulatory Tribunal.

Delivered in English by experienced judges, legal practitioners, academics and members of the QICDRC Registry, the programme provided participants with practical insight into the legal frameworks, regulations and procedural rules governing cases, as well as the process for lodging appeals before the Court’s Appellate Division.

The programme addressed the principal stages of the litigation process, including urgent applications and the commencement of proceedings, defences and counterclaims, jurisdictional disputes, disclosure and case preparation, hearings and evidence, judgments, court orders and damages, costs and enforcement, appeals, and proceedings before the Regulatory Tribunal.

By examining the progress of ongoing cases and drawing lessons from discussions of previously heard cases, participants strengthened their understanding of courtroom procedure, oral advocacy, legal analysis and case strategy.

The sessions also addressed ethical and procedural scenarios encountered by lawyers practising before international commercial courts.

The Rt Hon. Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, President of the Qatar International Court, said: “International commercial courts have an important role in familiarising businesses and investors with their mechanisms and procedures.

This programme gives legal practitioners the opportunity to deepen their understanding of those procedures and principles through practical application and insight into the progress of ongoing cases, helping them develop the practical skills required to appear before these courts.”

Faisal bin Rashid Al-Sahouti, Chief Executive Officer of QICDRC, said:

“The training programme reflects QICDRC’s commitment to supporting the professional development of legal practitioners and familiarising them with court procedures.

This helps shorten the duration of proceedings and save time and effort for both litigants and judges, facilitating access to justice for all and improving the efficiency of the services the Court provides to the public.”

Umar Azmeh, Registrar of the Qatar International Court, said:“A clear understanding of the Court’s procedural rules is essential for the effective conduct of proceedings.

Through practical exercises and direct engagement with members of the judiciary, the legal profession and the Registry, participants were able to explore how those rules operate in practice and how they can be applied to support the efficient resolution of disputes.”

Participants also had the opportunity to exchange professional knowledge, engage directly with trainers and fellow practitioners, and establish new connections within the legal community.

Upon successfully completing the programme, participants received a QICDRC Litigation Accreditation Certificate, together with a digital badge for use on their professional online profiles.

QICDRC will continue to deliver professional development and knowledge-building initiatives that enhance legal skills, promote international best practices and support the continued development ofQatar’s legal community.