The Al Habtoor Group is preparing to initiate an international arbitration claim in Washington over its investment dispute with the Lebanese government. The group has announced the appointment of the prominent law firm White & Case, recognized for its specialization in sovereign disputes and treaty-based investment arbitration, to represent them in this matter.
In its statement, the group confirmed that it has entered the final phase of preparations to commence international arbitration proceedings in the U.S. capital, in accordance with the dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in the bilateral investment treaty between the UAE and Lebanon, while complying with the applicable international frameworks for investment protection.
This decision follows the expiration of a six-month grace period stipulated in the treaty, during which no effective corrective actions or serious settlement proposals were presented, nor was there institutional communication capable of addressing the significant grievances and damages previously reported to the Lebanese authorities.
All of the Al Habtoor Group’s investments in Lebanon were made in good faith and in accordance with Lebanese laws and binding international obligations. The group has exercised considerable restraint and has long sought to resolve the dispute amicably, providing ample opportunity for resolution within the treaty framework.
However, the ongoing inaction, worsening institutional paralysis, and lack of effective remedial measures have left the group with no option but to pursue official international legal channels to enforce its rights and recover losses in accordance with established international legal frameworks.
The statement emphasized that the Al Habtoor Group remains open to any genuine and structured settlement initiatives that would restore its rights and compensate for incurred damages. Nonetheless, preparations for the arbitration claim in Washington have reached an advanced stage, underscoring that the protection of investors, adherence to treaties, and respect for international legal obligations remain fundamental pillars of economic credibility.
The statement further noted that the group’s actions are not only a pursuit of its rights but also represent a principled commitment to the rule of law and the sanctity and protection of foreign investments.
The Al Habtoor Group will continue to keep stakeholders and the public informed of developments as the arbitration proceedings progress.