Z&Co. and LexisNexis Middle East convene experts to decode Saudi public sector partnerships

Z&Co., Saudi Arabia’s leading national law firm, gathered a full house at the Ritz-Carlton DIFC in September for a morning of practical insight into operating effectively within Saudi Arabia’s public sector. Held in partnership with LexisNexis Middle East, the session — “Navigating Public Sector Partnerships: Legal and Administrative Essentials” — explored how Vision 2030 is redefining the legal and administrative landscape for government projects. The morning blended legal analysis with practical discussion from both government and private-sector perspectives.

The first panel, moderated by Sultan Almasoud, Co-Head of Public Policy and Regulatory at Z&Co., framed the discussion around the structure and decision-making processes of Saudi public institutions. Sarah Gonem, Partner and Co-Head of Dispute Resolution, explored how administrative law shapes procurement, performance, and remedies — a framework rooted in public interest rather than commercial negotiation. Dr. Nermine ElShimy, Government Advisor at the Royal Commission for AlUla, discussed how Royal Commissions and Special Economic Zones are driving regulatory innovation, while Richard Defontaine, Head of Legal, Middle East & Africa, at GE Grid Solutions, shared lessons from engaging with state-owned enterprises. Martin Creek, Partner and Head of Transactions, examined how regulatory frameworks influence deal structures and project bankability.

The second panel, moderated by Sarah Sadek, Counsel at Z&Co., focused on post-award delivery. Osama Kurdi, Head of Tax Advisory and Disputes, addressed tax and e-invoicing challenges; Reina Hashash, Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial Advisory, highlighted how localisation, Saudisation, and cybersecurity have become key compliance measures; Rashed AlRashdi, Head of Legal at Osool Integrated Real Estate (GOSI), discussed oversight and governance from the state-owned company’s side; and Sarah Gonem examined trends in arbitration and enforcement in public-sector contracts.

The discussions highlighted that success in Saudi public projects depends on understanding how law, governance, and delivery intersect — and on navigating the institutions and regulations that shape outcomes on the ground.

For further information, including access to key materials shared exclusively with session attendees, please contact info@zamakhchary.com.