The Qatari businessman **Abdulhadi Mana Al-Hajri**, closely linked to the royal family of Qatar, has sparked **controversy** following the purchase of **10,000 hectares in the Argentine Patagonia**.
This mega-project, initiated in 2017 through **Baguales Acquisitions SA**, includes the construction of **three hydroelectric power plants** and a **luxury private residence** near Bariloche, in the province of Río Negro, as reported by [noticiasambientales.com](https://noticiasambientales.com/medio-ambiente/denuncian-que-los-incendios-en-chubut-y-rio-negro-fueron-intencionales/).
## The project: hydroelectric power plants and tourist complex
In **Meseta Baguales**, 50 km from San Carlos de Bariloche, Al-Hajri plans to build **three hydroelectric power plants (ChiBa I, II, and III)** on the Baguales stream, with a total capacity of **920 kilowatts**.
The generated electricity will supply the exclusive **Baguales Mountain Reserve** and the businessman’s private residence.
After the purchase of the 10 thousand hectares in Patagonia, he was granted a **water concession** in 2019 for 30 years, limited to the months from July to September.
## Controversies and environmental concerns
The project has sparked intense debate due to its potential impact on the region’s biodiversity, as mentioned in [noticiasambientales.com](https://noticiasambientales.com/energia/impacto-ambiental-de-chatgpt-el-costo-oculto-de-generar-imagenes-ghibli/):
**The project would affect** the **Villegas river basin**, native forests, and protected ecosystems. Ecologist organizations criticize the lack of environmental impact studies.
Local communities were not included in the planning, causing discomfort.
## The Baguales Complex and luxury in Patagonia
**Exclusive tourism**: With luxury lodges and a ski center, charges rates starting from **$1,500 per night**.
**Private residence**: Described as a “privileged refuge,” with views of the Andes mountain range.
## Who is Abdulhadi Mana Al-Hajri?
Abdulhadi Mana Al-Hajri is married to Sheikha Al-Anoud bint Mana Al Hajri, the sister-in-law of the Emir of Qatar. He is known for high-profile investments, such as the Ritz in London (£800 million) and a mansion in Istanbul (€100 million).
In 2022, Al-Hajri was accused of financing a terrorist group, although the claims were withdrawn in 2024.
## Debate: economic development vs. environmental conservation
While some consider the project an **economic opportunity** for Río Negro, others point out that the benefits could be concentrated on the investors, with no significant positive impacts for the region.
This case highlights the tensions between **environmental preservation** and economic interests in Patagonia, one of Argentina’s most sensitive areas.
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