Image of Kirsten O'Connell

Kirsten O'Connell

Partner

Email

Kirsten.OConnell@aoshearman.com

Phone

+971 4 426 7133

Offices

Dubai

V-CARD
Kirsten has over 20 years’ experience representing clients in international arbitration proceedings, and has been based in the Middle East for 12 years.

Kirsten is a specialist in complex disputes arising out of major construction and infrastructure projects across a wide-range of sectors, including oil and gas, renewables, natural resources, defence and technology sectors.

Kirsten also has significant experience in investor-state disputes, having defended host States against claims arising out of complex construction projects, and having advised both States and investors in connection with potential claims and defences. She regularly appears as an advocate before international tribunals arguing complex cases with large sums and stake.

Kirsten has successfully represented clients in international arbitration proceedings under a variety of institutional and ad hoc rules. Kirsten also sits as an arbitrator and is a member of the Board of Directors of ArbitrateAD.

Expertise

Industries

Experience

Representative matters

  • A port operator in an ICC arbitration proceeding seated in London arising out of a FIDIC contract relating to the expansion of a container terminal in the Middle East.
  • UAE government entity in arbitration proceedings arising out of a public infrastructure project, where the contractor was seeking claims for over USD70m for compensable delay and outstanding payments.
  • Host State in ICSID proceedings brought by a foreign investor arising out of an infrastructure project.
  • A leading telecommunications company in DIAC arbitration proceedings brought by a subcontractor arising out of a commercial subcontract.

Leadership Positions And Professional Affiliations

  • Member of the New York Bar, 2005

Recognition

“I am always impressed with the first-class pragmatic advice and assistance she and her team provide”
Chambers Global UAE: Dispute Resolution 2024
“Kirsten O'Connell is a highly skilled professional who is capable of putting a range of diverse clients at ease”
Chambers Global UAE: Dispute Resolution 2024

Qualifications

Academic

Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, D.C. Juris Doctor, Magna Cum Laude, May 2004

Smith College, Northampton, MA Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude, with High Departmental Honors in Philosophy, May 1997

Disclaimer
A&O Shearman was formed on May 1, 2024 by the combination of Shearman & Sterling LLP and Allen & Overy LLP and their respective affiliates (the legacy firms). Any matters referred to above may include matters undertaken by one or more of the legacy firms rather than A&O Shearman.