GAR Awards: Ciarb’s 2025 President crowned ‘best prepared and most responsive arbitrator’
Image: Global Arbitration Review. Taken at the 2026 GAR Awards, Paris.
Professor Dr. Mohamed Abdel Wahab C.Arb FCIArb, Ciarb’s 2025 President, has won the award for ‘best prepared and most responsive arbitrator’ at the 2026 GAR Awards ceremony in Paris.
Mohamed, a Founding Partner at Zulficar and Partners and an internationally renowned leader in the field of arbitration who also delivered last year’s Alexander Lecture, was presented the award by Thomas Parigot, a partner at Gaillard Banifatemi Shelbaya Disputes.
Mohamed said: “I am deeply honoured to have received this prestigious award that represents an important milestone. I am also truly overwhelmed by the sentiments and messages received from friends, colleagues, and peers from across the globe. To feature among peers of great international stature and stellar reputation who previously received this award resonates far beyond individual excellence.
To me, the conferral of this award is a moment of collective elevation; it casts a spotlight on the depth of talent emerging from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and other relatively under-represented regions. It also demonstrates that intellectual leadership in international dispute resolution is neither geographically nor culturally confined. This recognition rebalances narratives, cements values of diversity and inclusion, and inspires generations of practitioners to participate with confidence on the global stage.
There are many outstanding arbitrators and counsel across Africa and beyond. Our global community includes practitioners of exceptional intellect, talent, integrity, and dedication. Each one is contributing to the advancement of our field and to the rule of law. This award is a reminder that distinction lies not in standing above peers, but in standing among them, committed to the same noble causes and values. This award widens the horizon for outstanding practitioners from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other regions to be seen, recognised, and celebrated not only regionally but on a more global level.”
Congratulations to Mohamed for this well-deserved recognition, and congratulations to all those who were nominated, and to all the winners.
The 2026 GAR Awards ceremony was held on 26 March at the Pavillon Gabriel as part of Paris Arbitration Week.
Read about Mohamed’s reflections on his year as Ciarb President.
