Program Overview

Master in International Business Transactions and International Arbitration

About

The Master in International Business Transactions and International Arbitration (IBTIA) is designed to equip students with advanced legal and practical knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of cross-border commerce and dispute resolution in today's global economy. Rooted in academic excellence and international legal standards, this two-year programme trains future professionals in the core areas of international business law, focusing on transactional mechanisms and arbitration.

In a rapidly globalising world where legal systems intersect and business transactions span jurisdictions, this programme addresses the growing need for legal experts capable of managing sophisticated international deals and resolving disputes across legal traditions. The curriculum offers a robust, practice-oriented approach that blends doctrinal study with real-world insights, preparing graduates to thrive in law firms, corporate legal departments, arbitration institutions, and international organisations.

Students will gain in-depth knowledge of key areas such as:

• International commercial arbitration
• Contract law (civil and common law)
• Corporate law
• Tax law
• Compliance
• International sales and trade law
• Intellectual property
• Finance

Emphasis is placed on arbitration and litigation as core components of commercial dispute resolution. Through a unique balance of theoretical grounding and applied learning—including case studies, negotiation workshops, and legal writing seminars—students develop the skills to analyze, draft, and negotiate complex legal documents while mastering legal argumentation and research methodologies.

Programme Structure

Duration

• 2 years

First Year (M1)

The first year introduces the essential foundations of international commercial law, comparative legal systems, and dispute resolution techniques, including regional perspectives from the Middle East and insights into transport and trade logistics.

Second Year (M2)

The second year builds upon this foundation, integrating advanced transactional subjects and industry-relevant areas such as:

• Mergers and acquisitions
• Investment arbitration
• Private international law

Students may choose between completing a research-based thesis or an internship report, guided by a structured methodology seminar that supports academic writing and critical thinking.

Requirements

Admission Criteria

• Applicants are expected to possess a relevant undergraduate degree.
• Further details regarding specific requirements and procedures will be outlined by the institution.

Tuition Fees

The total tuition fee for the programme over the duration of two years is AED 166,400.

Accreditation

The curriculum follows the European ECTS system, and the degree is awarded by Université Paris Cité. This programme is accredited by the UAE Commission for Academic Accreditation and the High Council for Evaluation of Research and Higher Education (HCERES) in France.

Employability

Graduates of the IBTIA Master will emerge as globally minded legal professionals equipped with the critical judgment, negotiation expertise, and ethical grounding required to lead in international legal practice and commercial dispute resolution.

Networking Opportunities

Each class comprises a limited number of students from diverse international backgrounds. A rigorous admissions process ensures the academic quality of the programme and provides opportunities to build a valuable professional network among high-potential peers.

Programme Chair

• Prof. Olivera Boskovic, Head of Program

Delivery Language

• English

Application Deadline

• 28th August 2026

Sustainability Focus

The curriculum at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi will be instrumental in shaping and inspiring a new generation committed to global business initiatives, complementing the UAE's rapid and ambitious progress towards socio-economic sustainability.