Kuwait Issues 108-Article Arbitration Law, Repealing 1995 Law
Kuwait published Decree-Law No. 120 of 2026, a 108-article arbitration law that replaces the previous arbitration chapter and repeals the 1995 law.
Kuwait published Decree-Law No. 120 of 2026 on arbitration in the Official Gazette on October 18, following its issuance on October 13.
The law comprises 108 articles and replaces the arbitration chapter in the Civil and Commercial Procedures Law, repealing Law No. 11 of 1995. It regulates the rules governing arbitration agreements, arbitrators, arbitration tribunals, approval of state contracts, and the enforcement of arbitral awards.
Its articles grant existing arbitration centers one year to adjust their status, while pending cases remain subject to the previous framework.
The update aims to reduce the time required to settle commercial disputes and improve the business environment, as arbitration is viewed as a faster alternative to court litigation.
What do these terms mean?
Arbitration: A method for resolving disputes outside of court, decided by a third party known as an arbitrator based on the agreement of the parties.
Decree-Law: A text issued by the head of state in cases specified by the constitution, carrying the force of law.
Enforcement of arbitral award: Procedures to compel the losing party to execute the decision of the arbitration tribunal through official authorities.
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