Eversheds Sutherland advised Saudi Water Partnership Company on financial close of Ras Mohaisen Desalination Project
The global law firm, Eversheds Sutherland has advised Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC), the procurer for critical water and wastewater infrastructure in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on the successful financial close of the Ras Mohaisen Independent Water Plant (IWP) project, a major new desalination facility located in Al‑Qunfudhah in the Makkah region.
The reverse osmosis plant marks a significant milestone in strengthening long-term potable water security for the Makkah and Al‑Bahah regions. Initial production is scheduled to commence in 2028, with full operational capacity targeted for 2030. The total project cost is estimated at SAR 2.57 billion (USD 685 million).
In alignment with the Kingdom’s localisation objectives, the project mandates local content participation of 40% during construction, 50% during the first five years of operation, and 70% thereafter. The plant’s scope also includes 17 kilometres of overhead transmission lines, a 132/33 kV substation, and a 30 MW solar power plant.
Eversheds Sutherland advised SWPC through a cross-regional, multi-disciplinary team, drawing on extensive expertise across projects, financing, and regulated utilities. The transaction was led by Ashley Halewood (Partner, Head of Projects Middle East), with support from Adite Aloke (Principal Associate), Saed Obeidat (Associate), and paralegals Sama Ali and Mohamed Al Ali.
Ashley Halewood, Partner and Head of Projects Middle East, commented,
“We are delighted to support SWPC on this strategically significant project, which plays a vital role in strengthening water security and sustainable infrastructure delivery across the Kingdom. This milestone reflects the strength of our regional projects platform and our commitment to advising on transformative, large-scale infrastructure developments.”
The Mohammed AlDhabaan & Partners Eversheds Sutherland team was led by Abdulatif Al Heraish (Partner) and included Leen Al Moaiqel (Associate), Nawaf Al Jasser (Associate), and Ali Al Araifi.
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