As the Gulf region undergoes a transformative shift in its construction industry, driven by groundbreaking innovations and ambitious mega-projects, the spotlight on arbitration and disputes intensifies. This era of rapid development presents unique challenges and opportunities, making the Gulf's approach to managing disputes in the construction sector a subject of keen interest. Our panel will provide insights into how the Gulf is revolutionizing construction, focusing on the specific arbitration frameworks and practices that are emerging to support this sector's evolution. Through this discussion, we aim to highlight the Gulf's pioneering strategies in construction and their implications for arbitration in the region and beyond.
#YoungITATalks Online is a series of virtual events presented around the world, featuring talks, workshops or interviews that cover a wide range of subjects relating to arbitration. The #YoungITATalks series is designed for education, conversation and sharing knowledge and experiences among young practitioners.
About the Speakers
Ibrahim Ati, Moderator
New York City Bar Association, EU
Ibrahim Ati (organiser and moderator): Dual-educated legal professional with training in both civil and common law systems, having passed the New York Bar and obtaining an LL.M. in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the University of Southern California, he is one of the youngest members on the NY City Bar Association's Professional Discipline Committee. Vice-Chair in the American Bar Association’Young Lawyers Division.
Abdullah A. Alsaeed, Panelist
Latham & Watkins
Riyadh, Saudia Arabia
Abdullah A. Alsaeed, partner at Latham & Watkins in Riyadh, is renowned for his expertise in handling complex commercial disputes and advising on substantial regulatory projects within the construction sector and beyond in Saudi Arabia. His understanding of Shari’ah and Saudi law, coupled with his ability to navigate between Saudi and international legal frameworks, makes him a trusted advisor for clients looking to succeed in the Kingdom's dynamic market. Alsaeed's work significantly contributes to shaping the legal landscape of Saudi Arabia, especially in areas related to construction, regulatory reforms, and governance matters for government entities. Fluent in Arabic and English, his global perspective and local expertise offer invaluable insights into the evolving construction industry in Saudi Arabia.
Magda Kofluk, Panelist
Stephenson Harwood
Dubai, UAE
Magda Kofluk, serving as a managing associate within the Dubai dispute resolution team of Stephenson Harwood, brings more than a decade of legal expertise to the table, with a specific focus on the construction sector. With eight years dedicated to the Middle East, she has developed a profound understanding of the region's unique legal landscape. Magda specializes in handling complex arbitrations across construction, infrastructure, real estate, and energy sectors, offering strategic guidance on disputes concerning high-profile international projects like high-rise towers, infrastructure developments, and power plants. Magda also serves as the Chair of Young ITA for the MENA region, and her dedication extends through her active involvement with ArbitralWomen, ICC YAAF, CIArb, and the Women in Law Foundation, evidencing her contribution to the future of disputes in the MENA region.
Thomas R. Snider, Panelist
Charles Russell Speechlys
Dubai, UAE
Thomas R. Snider is a Partner and the Head of International Arbitration at Charles Russell Speechlys, Dubai, with a distinguished career in resolving complex disputes across key sectors including construction, infrastructure, and energy. A Harvard Law School graduate, Tom has been recognized globally for his expertise in commercial and investment arbitration. His contributions extend beyond practice; he has lectured future legal minds as a professorial lecturer at the George Washington University Law School.
His recognition as a Global Elite Thought Leader in arbitration, alongside accolades for his unparalleled clarity and precision in legal matters, is a testament to his profound impact on the field. His work, which extensively covers pivotal sectors such as construction, infrastructure, energy, and telecommunications, has not only showcased his versatility but has also cemented his status as a trusted advisor across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
His esteemed positions on the boards of several international arbitration centers further reflect his commitment to advancing the practice of arbitration worldwide.
Ilham Kabbouri, Panelist
Vinson & Elkins
Dubai, UAE
Ilham Kabbouri is an Associate at Vinson & Elkins, specializing in International Dispute Resolution & Arbitration with a keen focus on the construction sector. Based in Dubai, she brings extensive experience in handling high-value arbitrations and litigation for state-owned and private entities, particularly in complex construction disputes. Ilham's expertise encompasses a wide range of issues within construction projects, including contract disputes, delay claims, and defects liability, demonstrating her adeptness in navigating the intricacies of the construction industry's legal challenges. Her practice is not only limited to contentious matters; Ilham also provides strategic advice on non-contentious construction and engineering issues, helping clients to prevent disputes and efficiently manage legal risks associated with major infrastructure projects. Her contributions to developing arbitration frameworks in Africa and her advocacy for diversity in the legal profession underscore her commitment to enhancing the arbitration field globally, with a significant impact on the construction arbitration community. Her efforts were recognized in 2020 when she was named one of Africa’s Most Promising Young Arbitration Practitioners by the Association of Young Arbitrators.