Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Free Consultation: 1 hour
The United Arab Emirates, specifically Abu Dhabi, is abundant in oil and gas reserves, making it an integral part of the global oil, gas, and energy marketplace. As such, the legal framework is tailored to manage these significant resources. Oil, Gas & Energy laws cover areas like contract formulation, operations advising, financing, legislative compliance, dispute resolution and environmental safeguards.
Given the complex nature of the oil, gas, and energy sector and the fact that it is governed by vast local and international regulations, legal assistance becomes necessary. Companies might seek legal advice to ensure agreement compliance, to navigate through joint ventures, mergers or acquisitions or to counter disputes relating to oil, gas or energy projects. Individuals, particularly those whose land areas might be of interest for oil drilling or gas exploration, also require legal help to understand their rights and compensation matters.
The main laws governing oil, gas, and energy in Abu Dhabi are the Constitution of the UAE and Law No. 1 of 1984 regarding the reorganization of the government. As per these laws, natural resources, including oil and gas, are public assets. The state reserves the exploitation rights, but private sector involvement is invited under concession agreements that define the legal, financial, and operational aspects of the partnership. The UAE's Supreme Petroleum Council oversees all oil and gas related operations in the country.
The ownership of oil and gas resources lies with the state, and they are considered public assets.
Foreign companies can participate in oil, gas, and energy projects, but only via concession agreements or joint ventures with the government.
A concession agreement is a contract between the state and a foreign company that allows the company to explore and produce oil and gas in a specified area for a certain period.
The Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 for the Protection and Development of Environment is the key law concerning environmental protection in the oil and gas sector.
In case of any conflict, the dispute may go to arbitration, the Abu Dhabi courts, or the courts of any other jurisdiction agreed upon in the contract.
The Supreme Petroleum Council and the Department of Energy in Abu Dhabi are key governmental resources for anyone requiring legal advice in the oil, gas, and energy sector. Also, the Federal Electric and Water Authority (FEWA) provides comprehensive information related to energy law.
If you need legal assistance in the field of Oil, Gas & Energy in Abu Dhabi, you are advised to consult with a Dubai-based legal expert who has deep knowledge of such laws. They can provide specific advice based on your situation and can guide you through the complex network of regulations, contracts and agreements within this sector.
