01 Aug, 2026
The Saudi Center for Commercial Arbitration (SCCA) announces the entry into force of the 2026 Mediation Rules and the Small Claims Procedures, replacing the ODR Procedure Rules, to the 2023 Arbitration Rules, effective August 1, 2026. This announcement represents a further step in the SCCA’s efforts to update its institutional frameworks and procedural rules in line with the highest international standards and practice, while keeping pace with ongoing developments—particularly the recognition of the use of electronic means in the administration of arbitrations and mediations.
The revised SCCA Mediation Rules are the result of a comprehensive review process that included benchmarking against various international mediation rules, as well as incorporating insights from the SCCA Global Advisory Committee, which includes 15 distinguished experts and leading practitioners in the industry. In addition, a draft of the SCCA Mediation Rules was made available for public consultation to collect feedback and comments prior to adoption.
The second edition provides a more comprehensive and structured framework for mediation proceedings by clarifying the process for initiating proceedings, setting out the conduct of the proceedings in detail, regulating electronic sessions, defining the role of the mediator, and strengthening confidentiality and privacy protection provisions.
The SCCA Mediation Rules also introduce new provisions governing settlement agreements, including allowing their electronic signature and establishing clear mechanisms for terminating mediation proceedings when a settlement cannot be reached. Such termination may be effected through a written declaration issued by the mediator or any of the parties irrespective of party-agreed mediation periods, ensuring a swift and effective transition to arbitration where appropriate.
In parallel, the development of the SCCA Mediation Rules included updating the Mediation Fee Schedule to enhance clarity as well as simplify the calculation of the costs of mediation. The updated fees are designed to offer competitive pricing for parties while ensuring fair compensation for mediators.
Under the new Mediation Fee Schedule, the SCCA has retained its ad valorem approach for calculating administrative fees based on the amount in dispute. This approach is intended to maintain affordable fees for lower-value disputes, including preserving the existing fee for disputes valued at up to SAR 200,000, while providing competitive pricing for disputes in the mid- and higher-value ranges.
With respect to mediator fees, the SCCA has adopted a hybrid approach. For low-value disputes, mediator fees continue to be calculated on an ad valorem basis, while disputes in the mid- and higher-value ranges—where matters are typically more complex—are subject to an hourly rate approach. This approach strikes an appropriate balance between enhancing access to mediation and ensuring fair remuneration for mediators.
Regarding Appendix IV to the Arbitration Rules, the SCCA introduced the new Small Claims Procedures that replace and substitute the Online Dispute Resolution framework issued in 2018 (amended in 2021). The Small Claims Procedures apply alongside the SCCA Arbitration Rules, and its provisions prevail in the event of any conflict.
The Small Claims Procedures are specifically designed for lower-value disputes in which the aggregate amount in claims does not exceed SAR 200,000, providing a faster and more efficient arbitration track. Under the Small Claims Procedures, the SCCA Court shall promptly appoint a sole arbitrator, who shall issue the final award within 30 days from the date of appointment. The proceedings shall be conducted primarily based on written submissions and pleadings, unless the arbitrator determines that a hearing is necessary and to be conducted through electronic means of communication.
These updates reflect the SCCA’s commitment to facilitating access to its services across the entire spectrum of claim sizes, from high value / bet-the-company cases to micro/mass claims typically involving limited complexity that can be resolved through electronic means. This approach is consistent with the SCCA’s electronic administration of all cases through its advanced and custom-made case management system, which covers the full range of dispute resolution services provided by the SCCA to individuals, private, and public sectors.
