EMAC is a specialised arbitration centre which has the potential to fill a geographic / time zone gap in the international arbitration market and meet some of the needs of regional and international companies operating in the maritime industry.

Dubai Decree No. 16/2016 was also issued on 20 April 2016 to establish the organisational structure of EMAC, which comprises a Board of Trustees who are each appointed for a renewable three year term, an Executive Committee and an administrative body. The Board of Trustees, which has a supervisory role, is headed by Sir Anthony Colman, Chairman, and Mr Majid Obeid Bin Bashir, Vice Chairman.  There are a further 13 Trustees, including Clyde & Co partner, and Head of Dispute Resolution (MENA), Chris Mills and other representatives from across the UAE maritime industry.