Diwakar Agarwal > Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP > Dubai, United Arab Emirates > Lawyer Profile

Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP‘s TMT practice offers ‘in-depth industry knowledge‘ and significant breadth of expertise in delivering cross-border digital transformation projects, major technology business sales and acquisitions, and resolving high profile technology disputes. The ‘excellent‘ Melissa Forbes-Miranda leads the group and is renowned for her expertise in the technology sector, encompassing data, software licensing, fintech and cryptocurrencies. Philip Clarke offers substantial expertise in virtual assets, while Sandeep Dhama is a specialist in corporate matters in the technology sector. Diwakar Agarwal is also a key presence, especially in regards to emerging technologies such as blockchain.

Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP is well positioned to act on stellar cross-border deals in the Middle East and beyond, receiving instructions from longstanding clients as well as a growing list of new connections. Diwakar Agarwal is a private equity and venture capital-focused adviser with multi-jurisdictional expertise and Sandeep Dhama has expertise in capital markets and corporate restructuring. Melissa Forbes-Miranda is also noted. Managing associate Toufic Safie advises on M&A, joint ventures and large-scale projects, particularly in the tech sector.

Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP pulls together a strong offering in the projects space, drawing on the contentious expertise of team head Rania Tadros, the extensive financing capabilities of co-lead Rustum Shah, and transactional prowess of partner Diwakar Agarwal. Acting for domestic and international clients alike, the team bring their experience to bear on a range of  strategically significant cross-border ventures, particularly in the renewables and agricultural space, where the embedded technological expertise of the group is greatly valued. Managing associate Toufic Safie and associate Murtaza Hussain continue to be highly active. Former practice lead Nijoe Joseph left the firm in November 2023 to join Milavous Group.

Stephenson Harwood routinely advises India-based corporations, banks, high-net-worth individuals, and families on the full range of matters. The team, based primarily in London and Dubai, particularly stands out for its significant experience advising clients in India-related disputes, handling both international arbitrations and general commercial litigation. Kamal Shah, based in London, heads the practice and is a key name for contentious mandates. Diwakar Agarwal, in Dubai, takes point on complex M&A, private equity, and general corporate matters for clients in India.