Kirsten O’Connell

Kirsten O’Connell is a partner in Allen & Overy’s Dubai office. She has 20 years’ experience, and has been based in the Middle East for over a decade. She has extensive experience advising clients in connection with complex construction projects, including in the avoidance and resolution of disputes. She has advised clients in the energy and infrastructure sectors in connection with contract administration and dispute resolution on major projects across the Middle East. She is also experienced in investor-state disputes, having defended host States against significant claims in ICSID proceedings, and having advised both States and investors in connection with potential claims and defences. She also has substantial experience in both institutional and ad hoc arbitrations in both common and civil law jurisdictions across a range of different market sectors. She regularly appears as advocate before international tribunals arguing complex cases with large sums at stake.