Bahrain > Project finance
Project finance
Baker & McKenzie Limited advised Arab Banking Corporation as an agent in relation to a $203m term loan and credit facilities for the operation of a stainless steel manufacturing plant in Bahrain. The firm also represents The National Commercial Bank and Gulf International Bank. Team head Ian Siddell is ‘tenacious in negotiations’.
With a strong market presence, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer’s close contacts with the Bahraini government ensure that it is at the forefront of projects work advancing in Bahrain. Harnek Shoker is assisted by Joseph Huse’s regular visits to the jurisdiction. The firm has advised the government on a wealth of energy matters.
Nicholas Polley’s arrival has been a significant ingredient in Charles Russell LLP’s palpable increase in momentum. His team advises Bahrain Islamic Bank and Bahrain Real Estate Investment on shari’ah-compliant projects, including an airport in the MENA region. The team was also bolstered by the recent arrival of real estate expert Simon Green from Norton Rose (Middle East) LLP.
Norton Rose (Middle East) LLP saw the departure of Dominic Harvey to Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. and Simon Green to Charles Russell LLP, but has been recruiting at mid-level. The firm is instructed by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Works on a range of matters, including a wastewater plant in the Muharraq region and a proposed redevelopment of a plant at Tubli. Joanne Emerson-Taqi continues to lead an impressive construction practice.
Trowers & Hamlins has broad capability, including a real estate team headed by the ‘extremely professional, competent, and knowledgeable’ Abdul-Haq Mohammed and Paula Boast’s highly regarded construction group. The firm is instructed on prominent projects including Kuwait Finance House Bahrain’s new affordable housing project and the Manama Lagoon mixed-use development.
The ‘very reputable’ Hassan Radhi & Associates continues to be instructed on numerous project finance transactions for the Bahraini government. Jalil al Aradi is recommended.
‘Name in the market’ Hatim S. Zu’bi & Partners acted as Bahraini counsel for a syndicate of lenders in connection with the financing of a sewage plant in Muharraq. Another highlight saw the team instructed as local counsel to BG North America in relation to its bid fee of $1bn to Bahraini LNG Terminal Project.
Haya Rashed Al Khalifa Attorneys at Law & Legal Consultants has an established presence in the jurisdiction. Shaikha Haya Al Khalifa led the advice on a $135m sukuk offering in respect of the Bahrain Financial Harbour Project.
Qays H. Zu’bi, Attorneys & Legal Consultants acted as Bahraini counsel alongside Hatim S. Zu’bi & Partners in the financing of a new sewage treatment plant in Muharraq. The firm is also representing an international consortium in relation to a new natural gas refinery.