Michael Tonkin
Michael Tonkin
BSc DipArb DipICIArb FRICS FCIArb FCIOB FDBF MAE QDR CArb
Michael Tonkin is an international arbitrator, charterer arbitrator, chartered quantity surveyor and chartered builder with over 30 years' experience in the resolution of complex construction, infrastructure, energy and commercial disputes. Based in Dubai, he sits as arbitrator in both domestic and international proceedings under a variety of institutional and ad hoc rules.
Michael has extensive experience across the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia, having acted in disputes involving major infrastructure projects, transportation systems, power generation facilities, oil and gas developments, real estate projects and industrial works. His appointments have included sole arbitrator, co-arbitrator and chair of tribunals in disputes ranging from modest claims to matters involving significant sums in dispute.
In addition to his arbitral appointments, Michael is a recognised expert in quantum and damages and has provided expert evidence before arbitral tribunals and courts worldwide. This dual perspective enables him to bring a practical understanding of complex technical, commercial and quantum issues to the conduct and determination of disputes.
Michael is a Fellow and current Deputy President of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) for 2026 and will become President in 2027, and is committed to promoting excellence, diversity of experience and effective dispute resolution across the global arbitration community.
BSc DipArb DipICIArb FRICS FCIArb FCIOB FDBF MAE QDR CArb
Michael Tonkin is an international arbitrator, charterer arbitrator, chartered quantity surveyor and chartered builder with over 30 years' experience in the resolution of complex construction, infrastructure, energy and commercial disputes. Based in Dubai, he sits as arbitrator in both domestic and international proceedings under a variety of institutional and ad hoc rules.
Michael has extensive experience across the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia, having acted in disputes involving major infrastructure projects, transportation systems, power generation facilities, oil and gas developments, real estate projects and industrial works. His appointments have included sole arbitrator, co-arbitrator and chair of tribunals in disputes ranging from modest claims to matters involving significant sums in dispute.
In addition to his arbitral appointments, Michael is a recognised expert in quantum and damages and has provided expert evidence before arbitral tribunals and courts worldwide. This dual perspective enables him to bring a practical understanding of complex technical, commercial and quantum issues to the conduct and determination of disputes.
Michael is a Fellow and current Deputy President of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) for 2026 and will become President in 2027, and is committed to promoting excellence, diversity of experience and effective dispute resolution across the global arbitration community.