CEO MESSAGE

First, I would like to thank all the health personnel and everyone working on the frontlines who have endeavoured to provide the best health services and care since the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and whom we have to thank, after God, for curbing the spread of the virus.

At QICDRC, we sought to ensure that the judicial services provided during the exceptional circumstances arising from the spread of COVID-19 would not be affected. The Court continued to provide all of its services and held all hearings without interruption. Throughout the past few months, we all have remained committed to the delivery of timely judgments following a fair and cost-effective procedure, and have continued to expand our services. Regardless of our challenging circumstances, we have remained committed to the vision of our court and began offering the Pro Bono Service. We have also ensured that the rule of law is maintained and justice becomes accessible for all; a tremendous achievement by the QICDRC staff who have risen to the challenge, proved their competence in dealing with such circumstances, and showed flexibility in facilitating dispute resolution services.

Our specialist electronic case management system (e-Court), was the best and optimal option for all users to file claims, appeals and other miscellaneous applications online, and follow up on their proceedings. This is in addition to attending sessions remotely and without the need to personally come to the Court’s premises, which contributed to maintaining the continuity of the judicial process without interruption or delay. We look forward to continuing to provide world-class legal services in Qatar, and on behalf of the Qatar International Court team, we wish you health and safety.

- Faisal Al-Sahouti, CEO

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QICDRC INITIATIVES

Qatar International Court launches Pro Bono Legal Assistance Service

Innovative online hearing connects participants remotely during times of social distancing

Qatar International Court Encourages Use of eCourt

Qatar International Court hosts seminar on the Coronavirus and its impact on contractual obligations under Qatari law

The Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFoCC) published a Memorandum on 'Delivering Justice during the Covid-19 pandemic and the future use of technology'

COVID-19 UPDATE

In light of the decline in the Coronavirus spread in the State of Qatar, and in line with Phase 4 of gradual lifting of restrictions, the Court took all necessary measures to ensure the safe return of all employees to resume their duties from their workplace. At present, QICDRC offices (including the Court and Tribunal Registry) remain open and operational. We have resumed normal working hours, namely from 8:00am until 5:00pm, Sunday to Thursday. To ensure that our premises remain safe to access, we have implemented various measures in line with government advice, including those relating to managing social distancing.

Safety Measures Taken At The Arbitration Facilities

Safety Measures Taken At The Courtroom

Insofar as hearings are concerned, although physical attendance is now possible, subject to maintaining social distancing, the Court and Tribunal will continue to prioritise the use of audio and video links where appropriate. Case-related queries can be sent by email to Registry@qicdrc.gov.qa. For any urgent case related query, the Registrar may be contacted by telephone on: +97433609587. As for arbitrations at our premises, the QICDRC will resume its acceptance of bookings by parties wishing to hold arbitration sessions; however, a limited number of participants will be allowed to attend the sessions in order that social distancing guidelines can still be maintained. Queries relating to facilities bookings should be addressed to Info@qicdrc.gov.qa.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

World Health Organization

Government Communications Office

Ministry of Public Health

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