The International Chamber of Commerce Qatar (ICC Qatar) has developed a new “programme of action” for its Arbitration and ADR (alternative dispute resolution) Commission as part of its efforts to support the local business community.
ICC Qatar chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani said: “Our vision at ICC Qatar is to foster the development of trade and investment between Qatar and the international business community by using the unique International Chamber of Commerce network.”  
“A key focus of our work is to ensure that all businesses operating in Qatar have access to the best possible dispute resolution mechanisms administered in the most efficient manner,” added Sheikh Khalifa, who has played “a critical role in promoting ICC Qatar as a bridge between the government and businesses.”
ICC Qatar also aims to drive a business-friendly environment in the country and act as the voice of international businesses in the local community.   
The ICC Qatar Commission works closely with the Paris-based ICC International Secretariat in drafting and revising various rules for dispute resolution, including the ICC Rules of Arbitration, ICC ADR Rules, ICC Dispute Board Rules, and the ICC Rules for Expertise.
The commission works with regional and international bodies to research the most efficient, cost-effective, and up-to-date modes of dispute resolution.  
The new programme of action was presented on Thursday with an introduction on “ICC Arbitration: Understanding the Basics” followed by a commission meeting. ICC Qatar has appointed Squire Patton Boggs’ Doha office managing partner Charbel Maakaron to head the commission.
Maakaron has been involved with Qatar Chamber and ICC Qatar for many years, actively promoting Qatar and ICC business initiatives.
In February, Maakaron led Squire Patton Boggs to partner with ICC Qatar to host the “International Arbitration Conference on Energy Disputes” under the patronage of HE the Minister of Energy and Industry Mohamed bin Saleh al-Sada.
“We’ve had the privilege of supporting ICC Qatar for many years, so the opportunity to lead the arbitration commission at such an exciting time in the country’s development is a special distinction. “My focus will be to work with young Qatari lawyers in my role promoting ICC arbitration in Qatar and to create an even stronger base of experienced Qatari attorneys within the ICC community,” Maakaron said.