What we say about the firm's legal practice in Saudi Arabia
Banking and finance
Within Banking and finance, Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is a first tier firm,
Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is ‘the go-to firm in Saudi Arabia for banking work’, and its lawyers are ‘the most commercial in town’. A significant reshuffle saw Mohamed Hamra-Krouha relocate to Abu Dhabi in 2011, but the arrival of financial regulation partner Tim Plews and counsel Paul Latto from London in 2010 ensured continuing top-end capability. Recent deals include advising Al-Ittefaq Steel Products’ minority shareholders on the restructuring of SAR7.5bn of debt facilities and liabilities. Team head Abdulaziz Al-Abduljabbar is ‘the leading light in Saudi’.
Capital markets
Within Capital markets, Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is a first tier firm,
Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP handles a good mix of equity and debt deals. The consensus is that ‘while other international firms may be cheaper, none come close on legal knowledge and commercial expertise’. The team specialises in complex pathfinder mandates, and recently advised Bank Al Jazira on issuing a SAR1bn subordinated sukuk comprising a hybrid mudaraba/murabaha structure – this was significant for being the first sukuk issuance by a fully shari’ah-compliant bank in Saudi Arabia.
Corporate and M&A
Within Corporate and M&A, Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is a first tier firm,
Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP draws praise for its ‘excellent responsiveness and business-friendly attitude’. Highlights included advising Norwegian solar energy company NorSun on the sale of its 50% shareholding in a Saudi joint venture. Mike Taylor, who splits his time between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is praised for his ‘initiative and strong team leadership’. Tim Plews and Khalid Al-Abdulkareem are also recommended.
Dispute resolution
Within Dispute resolution, Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is a first tier firm,
Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP remains ‘the most sophisticated practice in the market’, providing ‘strong litigators, ADR capability and excellent political relationships’. Commercial litigation, property disputes and employment issues are all strong areas.
Projects and energy
Within Projects and energy, Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is a first tier firm,
Al-Jadaan & Partners Law Firm in co-operation with Clifford Chance LLP is ‘a highly credible offering in the Saudi market’, and its involvement in a project ‘ensures that the deal is executed commercially and efficiently’. The group advised the financiers on the phase two financing of a $10.8bn integrated aluminium complex, sponsored by Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma’aden) and Alcoa Inc. Mohammed Al-Jadaan and counsel Paul Latto are highly recommended.