Alex Bevan is Shearman & Sterling’s Global International Arbitration Practice Group Leader and Head of the Abu Dhabi office. He also leads the firm’s Construction practice.

Alex specializes in complex international arbitration proceedings arising out of construction and development projects, investments, acquisitions and joint ventures. These disputes arise in a range of industries, in particular infrastructure, power, oil and gas and telecoms. He also regularly serves as Arbitrator in international arbitration proceedings.

Chambers Global notes that clients and peers have described Alex as “widely noted for his broad construction practice. He has regional experience of representing both contractors and developers in significant arbitrations, most notably in the energy and oil and gas industries. One client observed: ‘He is a tenacious advocate and the go-to guy for big-ticket disputes in the Middle East’”. He is also noted for having “extensive experience in international arbitrations, regularly representing major oil and gas clients”. Previous editions note that he is “extremely able” a “go-to guy for major international arbitrations”, and “a strategic thinker and a persuasive advocate” with “excellent relationship-building skills”. Chambers UK describes him as a “clinical cross-examiner” with “invaluable strategic thinking”. He has also been described as “outstanding – shrewd, hardworking and able”. Alex is recommended in The Legal 500 EMEA and The Legal 500 UK.

Alex Bevan is recognized as Global Elite Thought Leader in Who’s Who Legal – Construction 2022, which reports that he is “Simply one of the best in the industry” with a “huge amount of experience representing clients in the infrastructure, energy, and oil and gas sectors”. “He is intelligent and focused on successfully representing and positioning his construction industry clients”, “Alex has a huge amount of experience representing clients in the infrastructure, energy, and oil and gas sectors” and “He has an excellent reputation”. Who’s Who Legal – Arbitration 2022 recognizes him as a Global Leader, the publication notes that “He has built up one of the best international arbitration practices in the construction field” and “Alex is bright and tough and knows the industry”. Previous editions note that Alex Bevan “gets some of the biggest instructions and is experienced beyond his years in mega-project disputes”.

• A Middle Eastern company, as project owner, in a series of disputes with two sets of international EPC contractors in respect of a major water desalination project. The law of the Middle Eastern State applies and the contracts provide for ICC arbitration seated in that State.
• A European energy company in disputes arising out of three projects for the design, supply and installation of energy substations in high profile urban development projects in Dubai. The contracts are governed by the Laws of Dubai and the Federal Laws of the UAE.
• Turkish industrial group, Claimant in ICC arbitration against Russian entity arising out of a major urban development project in Moscow. Geneva seat, English law.
• Turkish contractor Enka Insaat ve Sanayi AS in an ICC arbitration in London and English Supreme Court proceedings against insurance group Chubb in respect of Russian power project.
• A large energy multinational in a complex construction dispute worth over $1 billion with a contractor in connection with a megaproject for an oil and gas facility in Central Asia. The dispute includes issues of delay and defects. English law applies.
• A Middle Eastern company in the aviation sector in seven LCIA arbitrations against a European aircraft components supplier. London seat, English law.
• A Middle Eastern company in the aviation sector, Claimant in an LCIA arbitration in Jeddah against a Middle Eastern aviation services partnership concerning unpaid contractual entitlements. Jeddah seat, KSA law.
• A seismic survey company in a dispute concerning termination of an oil exploration project in Saudi Arabia.
• A Middle Eastern energy company, Claimant in an ICC arbitration against a Middle Eastern insurance company arising from the termination of an insurance policy. Abu Dhabi seat.
• A GCC National Oil Company (NOC) in relation to claims made under a contract for the construction of refinery facilities in the Middle East.
• A Middle Eastern fund, Respondent in an ICC arbitration in Paris arising from a sports sponsorship agreement. Over €530 million at stake.
• An Asian State-owned entity and its joint venture partners in a dispute with a Middle Eastern State-owned entity arising from an EPC contract for the construction of a large petrochemical project.
• A contractor regarding interim project claims against Employer for extensions of time and adjustments to the Contract Price. Claims arise principally from a series of design changes imposed by the Employer.
• An international joint venture, Claimant in an ICC arbitration against a Middle Eastern State-owned company arising from a contract for the design & build of a major infrastructure project in the Middle East. Approximately $600 million at stake.
• Advice to an international joint venture as project owner in a dispute with a contractor arising out of a contract for the supply of heavy equipment in connection with a construction project for a large scale oil and gas production facility. The dispute concerns allegations of delay and defects. English law.
• A Middle Eastern real estate developer in relation to the construction of a large mall in the Middle East. The contract provides for DFIC-LCIA arbitration.
• A European contractor, Claimant in an ICC arbitration against a Middle Eastern owner arising from a contract for the conversion of a simple cycle power plant to combined cycle technology. London seat, English law.
• A European contractor and its subsidiary in a dispute before a Dispute Adjudication Board against a Middle Eastern owner arising from a contract for the construction of combined cycle technology power plant. London seat, English law.
• Two international construction contractors, Respondents in ICC arbitration brought by a Middle Eastern State entity arising out of the development of a world-class medical facility in the Middle East. Law of the Claimant’s State, London seat. Over $3.7 billion at stake.
• International consortium of contractors, Claimants in ICC arbitration against a Middle Eastern State arising out of the design and construction of an airport. Law of the Middle Eastern State. Close to $1 billion at stake.
• European contractor, Claimant in ICC arbitration against a US supplier in relation to a renewables project in the Middle East.
• Major Asian conglomerate in a dispute with a Middle Eastern LNG producer regarding our client’s potential liability related to a gas pipeline failure.
• North Asian company in LMAA arbitration arising from a contract to build an offshore construction vessel. London seat, English law.
• Middle Eastern luxury goods retailer in connection with a warranty claim (for a material adverse change) asserted by a private equity investor and arising from a share purchase agreement. English law.
• Middle Eastern investor in a dispute with a Eastern European country arising from a concession agreements to develop, maintain and operate high speed rail and high speed road networks.
• European consortium, Claimant in ICC arbitration arising out of the construction of a nuclear power plant in Finland. Stockholm seat, Finnish law. Over €6.1 billion was at stake.
• Indian industrial conglomerate, Respondent in ICC arbitration arising out of an agreement for the construction of an industrial gases facility in Oman. Bahrain seat, Omani law.
• U.S. engineering firm, Claimant in LCIA arbitration under the UNCITRAL Rules in connection with a fire at an oil refinery in Lithuania. London seat, Lithuanian law.
• Middle Eastern State-owned company in a series of disputes with EPC Contractors and offtakers in connection with the construction and operation of power and water desalination plants. Law of the Middle Eastern State.
• Spanish investment bank, Claimant in two LCIA arbitrations in connection with the expropriation of an electricity distribution concession in Argentina. London seat, English and New York law.
• Syndicate of Spanish and US investment banks, Claimants in LCIA arbitration in connection with the expropriation of an electricity distribution concession in Argentina. London seat, English law.
• Spanish investment bank, Claimant in two LCIA arbitrations in connection with financing arrangements made for the Dominican Republic. London seat, English and New York law.
• U.S. chemical engineering company, Defendant in consolidated ICC arbitration against consortium concerning the construction of 3 plants for the production of polymer in Argentina, Spain and The Netherlands. New York seat, Argentine/Spanish/Dutch/Tennessee law.
• Swedish investors, Claimants in ICSID arbitration against Romania arising under Sweden-Romania BIT.
• Indian pharmaceutical company, Respondent in LCIA arbitration against Spanish supplier in connection with a contract for the sale of drug intermediaries. London seat, English law.
• Brazilian investment bank, Claimant in LCIA arbitration against a Swiss entity concerning a series of acquisitions in the Brazilian elevator industry. London seat, English and Brazilian law.
• Two European companies, Respondents in SIAC arbitration initiated by a South East Asian company in relation to a Share Purchase Agreement. Singapore seat, Singapore law.
• Indian entity, Respondent in SIAC arbitration arising out of the acquisition of a travel business.
• European pre-shipment inspection company, Claimant in UNCITRAL arbitration against South American State under bilateral investment treaty in connection with expropriation of investment. Laws of South American State.
• Turkish consortium, Claimant in ICC arbitration against Republic of Turkey concerning 30-year electricity distribution concession. Geneva seat, Turkish law.
• Middle Eastern telecoms operator, Respondent in an ICC arbitration arising out of a joint venture in Tunisia. Paris seat, Tunisian law.
• Middle Eastern telecoms operator, Claimant in two ICC arbitrations arising out of a joint venture in Yemen. London seat, Yemeni law.
• Middle Eastern telecoms operator, Respondent in LCIA arbitration arising out of a telecoms joint venture in Algeria. London seat, English law.
• African State-owned oil company in UNCITRAL arbitration against a US energy company under long-term oil and gas sale and purchase agreement. London seat, English law.

Experience As Arbitrator Includes:

• President of tribunal in dispute arising out trading agreement. Geneva seat, Swiss Centre Rules.
• President of tribunal in dispute arising out of oil & gas project in Middle East. DIFC seat, DIFC-LCIA Rules.
• President of tribunal in dispute arising out of telecoms project in Middle East. DIFC seat, DIFC-LCIA Rules.
• President of tribunal in dispute arising out of urban development project in Middle East. DIFC seat, DIFC-LCIA Rules.
• Co-arbitrator in dispute arising out of design contract. London seat, LCIA Rules.
• Co-arbitrator in dispute arising out of tax treatment of receivables under concession agreement. ICC Rules, Istanbul seat, Turkish law.
• Co-arbitrator in dispute arising out of application of penalties payable under long term licensing agreement. ICC Rules, Istanbul seat, Turkish law.
• Co-arbitrator in dispute arising out of contract for supply of mechanical works in Middle East. Dubai seat, DIAC Rules.
• Co-arbitrator in dispute arising out of design and construction contract. DIFC seat, DIFC-LCIA Rules.
• Co-arbitrator in dispute arising out of design and construction contract. Dubai seat, LCIA Rules.
• Sole arbitrator in dispute arising out of agreement for the sale and purchase of commodities. ICC Rules, London seat.
• Sole arbitrator in dispute arising out of contract for design and construction of electricity substations. ICC Rules, Abu Dhabi seat.

Professional Affiliations

• Co-Chair, SIAC User’s Middle East Council
• Member, ICC UAE Commission on Arbitration & ADR
• Member, LCIA
• Member, ADGMAC Panel of Arbitrators
• Member, International Arbitration Institute (IAI)
• Member, Swiss Arbitration Association (ASA)
• Member, Spanish Arbitration Club (Club Español del Arbitraje)

Speaking Engagements

• “The increasing role of expert evidence in infrastructure disputes: A necessary evil?”, 9^th ICC MENA Conference on International Arbitration, Webinar, 24 February 2021 (Moderator)
• “The pendulum swings both ways: use and abuse of variation provisions in construction contracts,” International Bar Association (IBA) Construction Webinar, 17 November 2020
• “The impact of the UAE Federal Arbitration Act: two years on from its enactment, has it had the intended effect?”, The Dubai Arbitration Week (DAW), GAR Interactive and DIFC-LCIA, Webinar, 16 November 2020
• “Tactical Considerations for Commencing an Arbitration,” SIAC / ADGM Arbitration conference 2020, Abu Dhabi, 5 February 2020
• “The GAR Live Debate,” 5^th Annual GAR Live, Abu Dhabi, 28 January 2020 (Judge)
• “Innovation in arbitration: What does it take to promote useful change?”, Dubai Arbitration Week 2019, 17 November 2019
• “Oil & Gas Disputes - Past, Present and Future,” Emirates Maritime Arbitration Centre (EMAC), Chamber of Commerce and Industry, during ADIPEC 2019, Abu Dhabi, 12 November 2019
• “This house believes the rise of new regional arbitral seats and institutions will change international arbitration for the better,” 2^nd Annual Who's Who Legal Future Leaders: Arbitration Conference,” London, 26 June 2019 (Moderator)
• “Claims Management in Oil and Gas Infrastructure Projects,” 4^th Annual GAR Live, Abu Dhabi, 5 February 2019
• “The GAR Live Inquisition – Can Experts Be Relied Upon?”, 3^rd Annual GAR Live, Abu Dhabi, 7 February 2018

Accolades

• Alex Bevan frequently represents contractors and developers in construction arbitrations. His broad regional experience also encompasses joint venture, investment and other commercial disputes. Bevan is Shearman’s global head of arbitration and also heads its Abu Dhabi office. “Alex is an exceptional lawyer.” “He’s highly competent and experienced in acting for Middle Eastern government entities.” Chambers Global – Middle-East-wide – Dispute Resolution 2023
• Alex Bevan is Shearman’s global head of international arbitration, as well as managing partner of its Abu Dhabi office. Well regarded for his construction arbitration practice in the UAE, he is also regularly called upon to assist with oil and gas cases in addition to high-value contractual disputes. Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Dispute Resolution 2023
• Alex Bevan is a highly regarded lawyer with experience in an array of contentious construction issues, including arbitrations arising within the oil and gas sector. He also advises clients on claims relating to EPC contracts and extension of time matters. He splits his time between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Construction Dispute Resolution 2023
• “Alex is a very strong practitioner and arbitrator” “He handles some of the largest disputes around the Middle East” “He possesses all the traits and skills of a star arbitration practitioner” – Who’s Who Legal – Arbitration – Global Leader 2023
• Alex Bevan frequently represents contractors and developers in construction arbitrations. His broad regional experience also encompasses joint venture, investment and other commercial disputes. He heads Shearman’s Abu Dhabi office and also spends a considerable amount of time in Dubai. In 2021 he took on the role of global head of arbitration. “He is very active in the region and has strong expertise when it comes to Oman-related cases.” – Chambers Global – Middle East-wide – Dispute Resolution 2022
• “Alex Bevan is Shearman’s global head of international arbitration, as well as managing partner of its Abu Dhabi office. Well regarded for his construction arbitration practice in the UAE, he is also regularly called upon to assist with oil and gas cases as well as high-value contractual disputes.” “Alex Bevan is a standout practitioner and has a stellar reputation. He’s a great team player: really intelligent and client-friendly.” “He’s a real class operator in his domain.” “He’s very organised, efficient, very good to work with and really knows his stuff. He ticks all the boxes.” – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Dispute Resolution 2022
• Alex Bevan is a highly regarded lawyer with experience in an array of contentious construction issues, including arbitrations arising within the oil and gas sector. He also advises clients on claims relating to EPC contracts and extension of time matters. He splits his time between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. “Alex Bevan is very experienced in the region. We are confident his advice can be heavily relied upon.” – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Construction: Dispute Resolution 2022
• Alex Bevan is “simply one of the best in the industry” with a “huge amount of experience representing clients in the infrastructure, energy, and oil and gas sectors” – Who’s Who Legal – Thought Leaders Global Elite 2022
• “He has built up one of the best international arbitration practices in the construction field”, “Alex is bright and tough and knows the industry” – Who’s Who Legal – Arbitration – Global Leader 2022
• Alex Bevan is well regarded for his construction arbitration practice and is regularly called upon to act for clients in the oil and gas sector. Commentators regard him as “a thought leader in international arbitration,” explaining that “he has the experience, the background and a commendable depth of knowledge.” – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Dispute Resolution 2021
• Alex Bevan is described by market commentators as “excellent,” and has experience in an array of contentious construction issues, including arbitrations arising from the oil and gas sector. He also advises clients on claims relating to EPC contracts and extension of time matters. – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Construction: Dispute Resolution 2021
• Alex Bevan frequently represents contractors and developers in construction arbitrations. His broad regional experience also encompasses joint venture, investment and other commercial disputes; clients appreciate that “he thinks strategically, is highly dedicated and is very focused on our business objectives.” He heads Shearman's Abu Dhabi office and also spends a considerable amount of time in Dubai. – Chambers Global – Middle East-wide – Dispute Resolution 2021
• “He gets some of the biggest instructions and he is experienced beyond his years in mega-project disputes”, “Mr Bevan has a very good reputation and is a highly competent arbitration practitioner.” – Who’s Who Legal – Arbitration 2021
• Alex Bevan represents government entities and contractors in a slew of construction arbitrations. He is highly noted for his work for oil and gas clients. His recent work includes representing OHL International and Contrack in an ICC arbitration brought by a Middle Eastern state-owned company in relation to the development of a medical facility. – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Construction: Dispute Resolution 2020
• Abu Dhabi office head Alex Bevan has extensive experience in international arbitrations, regularly representing major oil and gas clients. He is noted as a practitioner who “knows his stuff” and is praised for his “very measured” approach. He is regularly appointed by contractors in regard to extension of time claims and a range of other disputes. – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Construction: Dispute Resolution 2020
• Alex Bevan is widely noted for his broad construction practice. He has regional experience of representing both contractors and developers in significant arbitrations, most notably in the energy and oil and gas industries. One client observed: “He is a tenacious advocate and the go-to guy for big-ticket disputes in the Middle East.” – Chambers Global – Middle East-wide – Dispute Resolution 2020
• Alex Bevan enjoys “a very good reputation” in the international arbitration market. One peer says, “He gets some of the biggest instructions and is experienced beyond his years in mega-project disputes.” – Who’s Who Legal – Arbitration 2020
• Alex Bevan is “simply one of the best in the construction industry”, according to impressed peers. – Who’s Who Legal – Construction 2020
• Clients find Alex Bevan of Shearman & Sterling LLP “excellent and accessible,” most notably in relation to his expertise in construction disputes. He has undertaken significant infrastructure cases, and is commended by peers for his advocacy. – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Dispute Resolution 2019
• Alex Bevan has been described by clients as “highly able and very experienced.” He is noted for his wealth of experience in major international arbitrations in the Middle East and is managing partner of the firm's Abu Dhabi office. – Chambers Global – United Arab Emirates – Construction: Dispute Resolution 2019
• Based in the Abu Dhabi office, Alex Bevan is described by his clients as “very dynamic and approachable.” He is most commended for his construction arbitration experience, having represented both contractors and sponsors across a number of cases. – Chambers Global – Middle East-wide – Dispute Resolution 2019
• Alex Bevan is “an outstanding lawyer” who is recognised as “a top name” for construction-related arbitration. – Who’s Who Legal – Future Leaders – Partners – Arbitration 2019
• “Alex Bevan ranks as one of the go-to construction lawyers in the UAE. Market commentators laud him as ‘a top-tier lawyer’ and ‘one of the premier practitioners in international construction arbitration’.” – Who’s Who Legal – Global Leaders – Construction 2019