‘Michael Turrini is an absolute rock star, not just with regards to dispute resolution, but also in avoiding disputes by providing top quality support during contractual drafting and negotiation. His ability to leverage knowledge gained during disputes is indispensable and worth its weight in gold.’
Biography
Michael has over 20 years of experience representing clients in construction disputes and arbitrations in the Middle East.
Michael advises on international arbitrations under all forums and rules, litigation, dispute board proceedings and alternative dispute resolution.
Michael is ranked as a Leading Individual for construction disputes in Legal 500 UAE 2023, and is also ranked as Leading Individual for Dispute Resolution and Construction in Legal 500 Qatar 2023. Michael has also been acknowledged in the Private Practice Powerlist for Middle East Arbitration by The Legal 500, 2023.
Michael's experience includes advising in relation to projects concerning airports, large scale highway projects, power, oil and gas, water, rail, waste disposal, cooling plants, commercial developments and large-scale hotel developments.
Experience
Representing a Middle East government in ICC / adhoc arbitrations arising from the construction of an international airport and regional airports (FIDIC form of contracts).
Representing a Middle East government in DAB proceedings arising from the construction of an international airport in the Middle East (FIDIC form of contracts).
Representing an Employer in numerous arbitrations related to the construction of major highway in the Middle East (FIDIC form of contract).
Representing Employers in arbitrations related to the construction of 5 star hotels in the Middle East.
Representing Employers in arbitrations related to the construction of commercial towers in the Middle East.
Representing Employers in arbitrations related to the construction of large scale shopping malls in the Middle East.
Representing a Middle Eastern Employer in an ad-hoc arbitration with a contractor relating to a water treatment plant.
Representing an Employer in an ICC arbitration related to the construction of a large scale residential development in the Middle East.
Representing a subcontractor in an ICC arbitration against the main contractor in relation to a gas project in Egypt.
Representing a subcontractor in relation to an arbitration with a main contractor airsing from the construction of a hospital in Middle East.
Representing an Employer in multiple disputes arising from the construction of a petrochemical facility in the Middle East.
Representing an Employer in an ICC arbitration arising out of a contract for construction of a bridge in Africa. The contract was based on the FIDIC Red Book.
Representing a Contractor in relation to disputes against the Employer arising from a contract for construction of a hydropower project in Africa. Contracts were based on the FIDIC Silver Book.
Representing an Employer in a DAB proceeding arising out of the construction of a rail project in Africa.
"Michael Turrini is an absolute force in the legal profession."
"Michael Turrini is great with clients and very good at getting things done."
"Michael Turrini's attention to detail is phenomenal."
Dispute Resolutions (Expertise Based Abroad), Qatar, Chambers Global 2026
"I can say that Michael Turrini's ability to manage complex cases is incredible. Michael is constantly thinking of his clients and how to push forward the best strategy on their behalf."
Construction: DR, UAE, Chambers Global 2026
"Michael Turrini is widely recognised for his exceptional professionalism and strategic foresight in handling complex construction disputes across the Middle East."
Construction, UAE, Legal 500 EMEA 2026
"Michael Turrini is an excellent lawyer!"
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration and International Litigation, UAE, Legal 500 EMEA 2026
Band Two, Construction: Dispute Resolution, UAE, Chambers Global 2026
'Spotlight', Construction (Foreign Expertise), UAE, Chambers Global 2026
'Spotlight', Dispute Resolution (Expertise Based Abroad), Qatar, Chambers Global 2026
'Leading Partner', Dispute Resolution, Qatar, Legal 500 EMEA 2026
'Leading Partner', Construction (including disputes), UAE, Legal 500 EMEA 2026
'Leading Partner', Projects, Real Estate and Construction, Qatar, Legal 500 EMEA 2026
