Michael has extensive experience in both international arbitration and commercial litigation across a range of sectors and jurisdictions. He typically acts in complex, multijurisdictional “bet the company” cases and regularly appears as an advocate. Regional award enforcement and asset preservation are also key areas of focus.

Michael has particular experience in DIFC law and the DIFC Court, having acted in some of the highest claim value and most technically complex cases before both the Court of First Instance and Court of Appeal. He has also been involved in drafting critical DIFC legislation.

Michael also acts as supervisory international counsel in local court cases (in the UAE and the broader GCC region).

From 2014 to 2015, Michael was the Associate to the President of the Court of Appeal of the Supreme Court of Western Australia. At University, Michael received first class honors, the Jean Rogerson Scholarship for graduating top five in his honors class, and various other subject prizes.

In 2025, Michael was awarded Associate to Watch in Chambers Global, which recorded that “Michael Stewart draws high praise from commentators, who note his impressive powers of analysis in addition to his capabilities in written and oral advocacy. He is well versed in arbitration and has further strengths in DIFC Court litigation.” Clients and peers submitted that:

“Michael Stewart is extremely conscientious, responsive and robust with his legal analysis. He understands the broader commercial issues and is always focused on achieving the best outcome for clients.”

“Michael is phenomenally hard-working.”

“Michael Stewart is technically very good and one to watch.”

Michael was similarly listed as a Key Lawyer in The Legal 500 2024 and 2025, with clients noting that: “Michael Stewart is a rising star in [DIFC disputes and Dubai arbitration]. Super bright in his assessment of any case and the best points for argument.” The 2025 edition of The Legal 500, recorded that “co-head [of commercial disputes] Michael Stewart is noted for his strong track record in regional award enforcement, professional negligence claims, and fraud matters”. Clients and peers said:

“Michael…is fantastic. He is incisive, efficient, comes up with great ideas and, most importantly, is an absolute pleasure to work with.”         

“Michael Stewart is the consummate professional.”

“Michael Stewart know the UAE (and wider MENA) market exceptionally well.”