The MENA Mediation First Pledge is a pioneering regional initiative that invitesbusinesses across the Middle East and North Africa to commit to "Mediation Before Litigation" – adopting mediation as their primary step inresolving commercial disputes. This transformative campaign aims to establishDubai as the mediation hub of the MENA region while creating a cooperativedispute resolution landscape that enables business progress and strengthenscommercial relationships.

Vision Statement: Launch the Middle East's pioneering corporate commitment initiative where businesses pledge to consider mediation as their first resort before litigation or arbitration, transforming the regional dispute resolution landscape and establishing Dubai as the mediation hub of the MENA region.
‍

The Business Case for Mediation

Quantitative Benefits (Based on International Experience)

• 60-80% Cost Reduction compared to litigation or arbitration
• 70-90% Time Savings in dispute resolution
• 85%+ Success Rate in mediation settlements
• 90%+ Relationship Preservation post-mediation
  ‍

Strategic Advantages

• Competitive Edge – Preferred partner status with other signatories
• Risk Management – Predictable dispute resolution processes
• ESG Compliance – Demonstrate sustainable business practices and responsible governance
• Market Access – Gateway to mediation-friendly business network
• International Recognition – Position as a forward-thinking, globally-minded organization
  ‍

Operational Benefits

• Confidentiality – Private resolution protecting corporate reputation
• Flexibility – Tailored solutions meeting specific business needs
• Control – Parties maintain decision-making authority
• Creativity – Innovative solutions beyond traditional legal remedies
  ‍

Core Commitment Statement

"We recognize that mediation is a flexible and constructive approach to resolving disputes. By joining the MENA Mediation First Pledge, we commit to considering mediation as our first resort before pursuing litigation or arbitration, thereby preserving business relationships, minimizing disruption, reducing costs, and achieving faster resolution of commercial disputes."
‍

ComprehensivePledge Commitments

1. Mediation First Commitment

• Consider mediation as the first resort for resolving all commercial disputes
• Engage in good faith mediation before initiating litigation or arbitration proceedings
• Actively promote mediation awareness within the organization and business network
  ‍

2.Contractual Integration

• Insert mediation clauses in agreements and contracts whenever appropriate
• Include escalation procedures that prioritize mediation before formal dispute resolution
• Standardize mediation-first policies across all business relationships
  ‍

3.Organizational Development

• Embed mediation-first policies into corporate governance frameworks
• Provide mediation awareness training for staff and executives
• Share success stories and best practices with the pledge community
• ‍

4. CommunityParticipation

• Engage in MENA mediation events and educational programs
• Support mediation development in the regional business ecosystem
• Collaborate with fellow signatories to advance mediation culture
  ‍

ESG andSustainability Leadership

The MENAMediation First Pledge directly supports Environmental, Social, and Governance(ESG) objectives by:

• Environmental Impact: Reducing paper consumption, travel, and resource usage  associated with lengthy litigation processes
• Social Responsibility: Preserving business relationships and maintaining employment stability through faster dispute resolution
• Governance Excellence: Demonstrating commitment to transparent, efficient, and ethical business practices
• Stakeholder Value: Protecting shareholder interests through cost-effective dispute management
• Sustainable Business Practices: Contributing to a more cooperative and sustainable business ecosystem in the MENA region
  ‍

Recognitionand Certification Framework

CertificationLevels

• Bronze Status – Basic pledge commitment and training completion
• Silver Status – Active mediation implementation and staff training
• Gold Status – Demonstrated results and community leadership
• Platinum Status – Regional mediation ambassadors and mentors
  ‍

Annual MENA Mediation Excellence Awards

• Pioneer Award – First 50 organizations to sign the pledge
• Innovation Award – Most creative mediation program implementation
• Impact Award – Highest number of successful mediations
• Leadership Award – Outstanding promotion of mediation culture
  ‍

Marketing Benefits

• Pledge Logo Usage – Demonstrate commitment to stakeholders and clients
• Website and Directory Listing – Feature on the Mediation Hub MENA website as a signatory of the pledge and premium placement in mediation-friendly business directory which The Mediation Hub will develop.
• Social Media Recognition – We will announce your commitment across our social media channels, highlighting your leadership in sustainable dispute resolution
• Case Study Features – Highlight success stories in publications and social media
• Speaking Opportunities – Platform at regional business events and conferences
  ‍

How to Join the MENA Mediation First Pledge

Becoming a signatory is straightforward and fully supported:

Simple Stepsto Participate:

1. Express Interest – Contact us at info@mediationhub.ae or reach out through our social media channels
2. Review & Sign – Receive the pledge document and sign as an official corporate policy
3. Integration Support – Our team provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the implementation process
4. Community Engagement – Join our network of forward-thinking organizations and participate in regional events
   ‍

Join the Movement

The MENA Mediation First Pledge represents more than a commitment to efficientdispute resolution – it's a declaration of leadership in creating a morecooperative, sustainable, and prosperous business environment across the MiddleEast and North Africa.

By joining this pioneering initiative, your organization becomes part of a transformative movement that prioritizes relationship preservation, cost efficiency, andsustainable business practices. Together, we're not just resolving disputes –we're building the foundation for the region's economic future.

‍

Ready to Lead?

Contact us today to become a founding signatory: 📧 info@mediationhub.ae
🌐 Follow us on social media for updates and announcements
📱 Join the conversation and be part of the mediation-first revolution

The MENA Mediation First Pledge – Building bridges, not walls in commercial disputes.

MENA Mediation First Pledge - Mediation Before Litigation.pdf