QICCA Conciliation Rules 2026 - scope, confidentiality and process at a glance

The Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA) has issued new Conciliation Rules, in force from 1 February 2026, which apply to cases registered on or after that date. Conciliation in the context means the same as mediation, with the Rules defining ‘conciliation’ as ‘any process, whether referred to by the expression ‘conciliation’, ‘mediation’, or any expression of similar import, whereby the parties request a third person or persons to assist them in their attempt to reach an amicable settlement of their dispute’. 

Application of the Rules

Where parties have agreed to submit disputes to conciliation under the QICCA Rules, the Rules apply irrespective of whether the underlying relationship is contractual or not. Notably, the Rules also accommodate disputes referred to expert determination, subject to any modifications necessary to reflect the nature of expert determination, until dedicated Expert Determination Rules come into force.

Confidentiality and Disclosure

Information received by the conciliator from a party is kept confidential unless that party consents to disclosure. Unless otherwise agreed, confidentiality extends to all matters relating to the proceedings and to any settlement agreement, save where disclosure is required by law or is necessary for implementation or enforcement.

Agile Procedure – including remote hearings

The conciliator may conduct the proceedings as deemed appropriate, including by using means of virtual communication that do not require the parties’ physical presence. Conduct is guided by objectivity, fairness and justice, with equal treatment of the parties and a full and equal opportunity to present their cases.

Recourse to other proceedings

Each party undertakes not to commence arbitral or judicial proceedings on the matters under conciliation while the conciliation is ongoing, except where necessary to preserve its rights.

Duration and escalation

The conciliator will use best efforts to reach settlement within the agreed period or, absent agreement, within 30 days of receipt of the file from the Center. If the dispute is not settled within 60 days of commencement, any remaining matters will proceed to arbitration under the QICCA Arbitration Rules, unless the parties agree otherwise.

Conclusion 

QICCA’s updated Conciliation Rules form part of a broader effort to provide modern, reliable alternatives to litigation. They set a flexible, efficient and transparent framework aligned with international best practice, aimed at timely resolution and improved service quality. The changes are intended to support commercial parties and strengthen Qatar’s business environment.