Private Sector Participation in Power and Water Projects in Dubai: A New Legal Framework

Analysis

A new law for "private sector participation in the production of electricity and water" was enacted, which is an important template for private sector participation in utilities generally in Dubai and may be a catalyst for the development of legislation covering other sectors in Dubai, in which PPPs have a role to play

On 4 April 2011, a new law for "private sector participation in the production of electricity and water"was enacted in the Emirate of Dubai (Dubai Law No. 6/2011). The immediate driver for this law is no doubt the Al Hassyan Independent Power Project-currently out to tender and due to become Dubai's first independently-financed power project. However, the law is an important template for private sector participation in utilities generally in Dubai and may be a catalyst for the development of legislation covering other sectors in Dubai, in which PPPs have a role to play.