On 17 June 2025, the Kingdom of Bahrain signed a historic Host Country Agreement with the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA). This agreement makes Bahrain the first Arab and Middle Eastern country to host a PCA representative office. It was signed by H.E. Nawaf bin Mohammed Al Maawda, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs, and Waqf, on behalf of Bahrain, and H.E. Dr. Marcin Czepelak, Secretary-General of the PCA. The signing was a highlight of Dr. Czepelak's official visit to Bahrain.
This landmark agreement marks a significant development for international dispute resolution in the region. It establishes a legal framework for PCA-administered arbitrations, mediations, and other proceedings to be held in Bahrain. Bahrain will provide facilities and services--such as office and meeting space and secretarial services-- as needed for PCA-administered proceedings, which may be offered at no cost to the disputing parties. The Agreement also grants privileges and immunities to arbitrators and other participants in PCA-administered cases, making PCA services more accessible to parties in the Middle East and beyond.
During his visit, Dr. Czepelak toured the Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution (BCDR) premises. The visit allowed the PCA Secretary General to examine the BCDR's advanced facilities, which could serve as a future venue for PCA proceedings. He was accompanied by Professor Marike Paulsson, Secretary General of the Council for International Dispute Resolution for Bahrain and Vice-Chair of the BCDR's Board of Trustees. Dr. Czepelak was welcomed and met with Ahmed Husain, CEO; Fatima Alwardi, Operations Director; Fatema Al Zayed Al Jalahma, Senior Case Manager, and other staff members of the BCDR.
Professor Marike Paulsson referenced the existing cooperation agreement between the BCDR and the PCA, signed in 2013, and emphasized the significance of the recently signed Host Agreement in strengthening collaboration between the PCA and Bahrain. She explained how this will boost Bahrain's role as a regional and international hub for arbitration and alternative dispute resolution.
