Republic of India (Appellant/Defendant) v Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (Respondent/Claimant)

Monday 11 – Tuesday 12 and Thursday 14 May 2026 Before Lord Justice Males Lord Justice Phillips Lord Justice Miles By Appellant’s Notice filed on 20 October 2025 the Appellant appeals a decision of the High Court, delivered on 20 June 2025 following trial and the pursuant order being made on 29 September 2025. The dispute arose out of a failed aluminium and bauxite project in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh involving the Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA) and the Government of India. In 2007, RAKIA signed an agreement with the state government which led to the creation of a joint venture company, ANRAK Aluminium Ltd. RAKIA. In 2008, ANRAK entered into an agreement with a state-owned mining company to secure a supply of bauxite. However, the project faced strong opposition due to environmental concerns, tribal land issues, and political pressure. In 2016, the state government cancelled the bauxite supply agreement, bringing the project to an end. RAKIA then started international arbitration against India under the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between India and the UAE, seeking USD 273 million in compensation. The key issue was whether the tribunal had jurisdiction under the BIT. The High Court overturned the tribunal’s decision.