Global Contract Law in the Middle East and North Africa

Book excerpt: This book comprehensively covers the interplay between cultural and legal globalization and the impact this has on contract law, with a particular focus on state contracts within the MENA region. The book discusses the roles assumed by Supreme Courts in Egypt and MENA countries in creating unified principles of international contract law in states’ contracts which are consistent with international commercial contracts’ principles. It makes a powerful argument for further harmonization of contract law in the area, and how this can be achieved. The book forms a case study of how international harmonization can be achieved through a number of routes, such as codification, digitalization of processes and contracts, private-public arbitration, and further use of international instruments. It also considers the implications of comparative European law, convention law, and other legal domains, particularly international standards, on contract law in the MENA region. The book suggests how international legal standards can be integrated within contract law, and how a harmonious contract law framework can thus be achieved. Through analyzing ICSID case law, the book argues that unification of contract law principles in the MENA region is a considerable step towards achieving legitimate expectations of foreign investors. It argues, further, that global contract law is underway. The book will be is of interest to students and scholars in the field of international contract law, public law, and international law in Egypt and MENA countries.