Wissam F. Dagher

Wissam is one of the most prominent lawyers in UAE litigation and arbitration, with over two decades of expertise in advising clients through complex multi-jurisdictional disputes.

With his in-depth understanding of the interplay between onshore and offshore jurisdictions, Wissam seamlessly integrates substantive legal analysis with commercial business considerations. He serves a diverse clientele, from global conglomerates to regional enterprises and local companies, across a wide array of sectors and jurisdictions. His advice is particularly sought after in shareholders’ conflicts, commercial disputes, banking and finance, construction and infrastructure projects, and sophisticated white-collar crime matters.

Wissam crafts strategies that adapt and evolve as disputes unfold, frequently considering local cultural nuances and regional insights to achieve positive outcomes. Over his career, he has spearheaded multi-million-dollar arbitrations under the AAA-ICDR, DIAC, ICC, ADCCAC, SIAC, as well as ad hoc proceedings governed by the UNCITRAL Model Law. These cases have been seated in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Istanbul, Muscat, Paris, New York, London, Casablanca, Zurich, Singapore, and Tokyo. Beyond arbitration, Wissam advises clients through complex financial fraud investigations, often uncovering critical evidence and negotiating settlements that minimise exposure and maximise recovery.

Leading one of DLA Piper’s most diverse and dynamic disputes teams, Wissam promotes an environment of collaboration and excellence that consistently delivers strong results to his clients. He is results focused, with a relentless drive to deliver solutions to his clients in a very efficient manner.

Wissam has been repeatedly acknowledged in directories like Legal 500, where he is described as “…active across onshore courts, arbitral tribunals and offshore courts.”