Katara Tech Forum highlights AI’s role in arbitration, digital justice

Doha hosted the 31st edition of the Katara Tech Forum, an event that gathered international experts to examine the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on arbitration, governance, institutional management and digital justice. Sponsored by the Carthage International Academy for Arbitration and Mediation and the Business Council, the forum included the Qatar International Arbitration Conference, which focused on the transition from traditional to smart management and digital justice.

The conference unfolded at Katara's Hall 15, drawing legal professionals, academics and technology specialists from Qatar and various Arab and international nations. Dr. Thamer Al-Qadi, Head of the Katara Tech Forum and Director of Katara's Information Systems Department, delivered the opening remarks. He stressed AI's shift from a mere technological tool to an active partner in decision-making and administrative and justice systems development.

Al-Qadi stressed that digital transformation goes beyond merely integrating advanced technologies. It also hinges on robust governance, secure infrastructure, data confidentiality and transparency. He cautioned that the rapid advancement of generative AI necessitates corresponding enhancements in legal and regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible technology deployment while upholding international data protection standards.

H.E. Sheikh Dr. Thani bin Ali Al Thani, Vice-Chairman of the Qatar International Center for Conciliation and Arbitration (QICCA), emphasized arbitration's role in bolstering Qatar's legal and investment landscape. He highlighted alternative dispute resolution mechanisms as offering flexible and effective solutions to commercial disputes, promoting institutional growth and investor confidence.

Sheikh Dr. Thani also announced the launch of Qatar's inaugural master's degree program in governance, a collaboration with Lusail University. The program aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to navigate evolving management challenges. Dr. Ines Ben Nasr, President of the Carthage International Academy for Arbitration and Mediation, underscored the importance of technological progress paired with effective governance, institutional transparency, and robust oversight mechanisms.

The conference featured three specialized sessions exploring the intersection of technology, governance, and legal practice.