CMS has advised on the largest student accommodation project to be developed under Abu Dhabi’s public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The international law firm provided counsel to the government’s central investment hub, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), on its joint project with Khalifa University to develop the facility.
ADIO and Khalifa University awarded the delivery of the project to KUnnected Living, a consortium comprising Plenary Group, BESIX Group, and Mazrui International.
The initiative encompasses a 23-year concession for the design, construction, financing, and maintenance of 3,260 student rooms and communal facilities spread across Khalifa University’s main campus and its Sas Al Nakhl campus.
ADIO is responsible for structuring and procuring all infrastructure projects executed through the PPP framework in Abu Dhabi.
Commenting on the deal, David Moore, CMS lead partner on the project, said: “This project exemplifies the strength and potential of public-private partnerships in delivering critical infrastructure. Our team’s expertise in navigating complex PPP frameworks has helped in bringing this project to commercial close, and we are proud to contribute to a development that will deliver top-ranked educational facilities and support the region’s growth in the education sector.”
Moore led the team alongside legal director Iona Hunter, with assistance from associate Sam Ridge.
In December 2023, a new law regulating PPPs was introduced to encourage private sector investment and participation in major infrastructure projects.
