3 Cairo

This chapter evaluates the merits of Cairo as a venue for international arbitration proceedings. It discusses the history and development of arbitration in Egypt; the processes and rules involved as well as the role of courts in the conduct of arbitration proceedings; and rules for arbitral awards. It concludes that Cairo has become an attractive venue for international commercial arbitration since the promulgation of the Arbitration Act, inspired by the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law. The Egyptian courts are generally favorable to arbitration. They exercise minimal control over awards in actions for setting aside. The desirability of Cairo as a venue for international arbitration is further enhanced by the existence and activities of the Cairo Centre, which administers proceedings at very competitive rates compared with other arbitral institutions, and regularly updates its rules to reflect best international arbitration practices. The Centre also offers all the facilities required in connection with modern arbitration proceedings.