London remains the world's top international arbitration hub

London and Singapore have held onto their status as the world’s top arbitration hubs, according to White & Case’s latest international arbitration survey, with arbitration remaining the go-to method for resolving cross-border disputes.

London was the top pick for 34% of respondents, just ahead of Singapore and Hong Kong (both 31%).

London and Singapore were the only two seats ranked in the top five by respondents across all global regions, underlining their broad international appeal.

The findings highlight arbitration users’ continued focus on judicial reliability, legal infrastructure and proactive legislative reform.

The UK’s newly updated Arbitration Act, which came into force in February, reflects that focus - introducing reforms aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening London’s reputation as the leading venue for international dispute resolution.

By the numbers

• This year’s survey involved 2,402 questionnaire responses received and 117 interviews conducted.
• 87% of respondents prefer arbitration over other forms of cross-border dispute resolution.
• Top arbitration seats globally: London (34%), Singapore (31%), Hong Kong (31%), Beijing (20%), Paris (19%).

Regional trends

• London and Singapore both rank among the top five seats for each of the six regions in which respondents principally practice or operate.
• Asia-Pacific users favoured local hubs, with London the only non-Asian seat in the top five.
• North America picked New York and Washington DC among their top five preferred seats, while the Middle East also favoured Dubai.
• Europe leaned heavily towards regional seats, with Singapore again the only non-European choice.