Noted for its capabilities in corporate structuring, Abou Jaoude & Associates Law Firm’s recent caseload encompasses joint ventures involving dual-currencies. Often advising financial institutions, Carlos Abou Jaoude
is knowledgeable of the energy, media, and telecoms sectors, while Souraya Machnouk
is notably experienced in cross-border transactions. Simon El Kai is well-regarded in the pharmaceuticals sector, while Ibrahim Barraj often advises retail and investment banks.
Commercial, corporate and M&A in Lebanon
Abou Jaoude & Associates Law Firm
Practice head(s):
Carlos Abou Jaoude; Souraya Machnouk; Simon El Kai; Ibrahim Barraj
Testimonials
‘They are a professional team who are innovative and updated on the new laws and regulations.’
‘Availability, knowledge, professionalism, and efficiency.’
‘They are experts in M&A, and they have knowledge in a wide spectrum of business requirements.’
‘The team have demonstrated exceptional competence.’
‘They are prompt in their communication, ensuring that the client receives timely and accurate legal counsel.’
‘Souraya Machnouk keeps abreast of the latest legal developments, which allows her to provide cutting-edge advice that is both practical and effective.’
‘A knowledgeable and professional team.’
Key clients
Amazon
Adobe
Starbucks
Subway
PWC
Orange Telecoms
Richemont Group
Moderna
Laboratoires Pierre Fabre
The Body Shop
Elie Saab Group
Thomson Reuters Corporation
Fadaat Media Group
ALMAZA Group
Benta Group
AJA Group
Malia Group
Work highlights
- Advised the NYSE-listed US technology company, NCR Corporation on a highly complex multi-jurisdiction strategic corporate reorganisation pursuant to the split of the group’s ATM and commerce operations.
- Advised American multinational coffee chain Starbucks, on the highly complex regulatory framework governing products packaging and food safety in Lebanon.
- Advised renowned international luxury fashion house Elie Saab on a strategic joint venture with the leading regional luxury retail group ABA (Ali Bin Ali) for the expansion of the brand in Monaco.
Alem & Associates
Alem & Associates is a key port of call for real estate, telecoms, and pharmaceutical clients on corporate structuring, M&A, and shareholder agreements, Founder Mohamed Y Alem has vast experience in handling commercial and investment transactions, Rola Tabsh is well-regarded in the real estate sector, whilst Rola Tabsh boasts strengths in IP, franchising, and media law. Leila Alem Hammoud handles managing tax issues that arise from M&A transactions, while other key team members include Omar El Assir, Maya Tabet Chidiac, and Dolly Choucair.
Practice head(s):
Mohamed Y Alem; Rola Tabsh; Omar EL Assir; Leila Laila; Maya Tabet Chidiac; Leila Alem Hammoud; Dolly Choucair
Other key lawyers:
Youmna Gharzouzi
Testimonials
‘They are capable of analyzing any request and giving the right advice, direction, and legal support. The environment of the firm is very healthy and trusted. They have a strong network in Lebanon and on a regional basis as well. ’
‘They are always accessible and responsive, with a high standard of skills and legal knowledge.’
‘ They have specialized lawyers for different categories and are well synchronised.’
‘They are friendly yet straightforward and work by the book.’
‘We have dealt with Mohamed Alem, Youmna Gharzouzi, Leila Alem, Raymond Helou, and Rola Tabsh, they are all outstanding.’
‘What sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to providing a comprehensive, client-centred approach. The team’s deep understanding of the regional market dynamics, combined with its global perspective, makes them a uniquely strong force in navigating complex corporate transactions.’
‘The individuals are not only exceptionally skilled but also approachable and collaborative.’
Key clients
Lucid Investment Bank
DIV Capital SAL
Schlumberger
Work highlights
Badri and Salim El Meouchi LLP
Badri and Salim El Meouchi LLP operates a distinguished corporate and commercial practice, handling high-profile transactions involving multinational corporate structures and frameworks. Chadia El Meouchi handles corporate transactions involving PPPs, Carine Farran is versed in capital markets and M&A, while Walid Honein is highly knowledgeable of commercial law.
Practice head(s):
Chadia El Meouchi; Carine Farran
Other key lawyers:
Salim El Meouchi; Walid Honein; Zouheir El Baba
Testimonials
‘Badri and Salim El Meouchi LLP have an excellent standard.’
‘Chadia El Meouchi is in a league of her own, Walid Honein has immense experience, and Carine Farran is extremely responsive. ’
Key clients
CDCI International
Debbaneh Saikali Group Holding SAL
Deutsche Bank
Secil SAL
Ciment de Sibline SAL
Emaar Properties
EIB
Banque Misr Liban
Audi Saradar Private Bank
Pinsent Masons LLP
Clifford Chance LLP
Holdal Group
White & Case LLP
Work highlights
- Assisted an international renewable energy independent power producer on its acquisition of the majority shareholding of a holding company.
- Assisted a large cement company wishing to develop solar farms on meeting its energy requirements.
- Assisted an international energy company on restructuring their operations in the Lebanese market.
BLK Partners
BLK Partners is a key port of call for construction, hospitality, and healthcare clients on M&A, as well as joint ventures. Ziad El-Khoury leads the team and is skilled at corporate, regulatory, and commercial law matters, while Bassem Chalhoub is an expert in employment and labour law. Hadi Melki is another key individual aiding on a number of the firm’s mandates.
Practice head(s):
Ziad El-Khoury
Other key lawyers:
Bassem Chalhoub; Hadi Melki
Testimonials
‘Compared to other firms, they offer personalised solutions, strong industry knowledge, and a culture of improvement. They are highly responsive.’
‘Bassem Chalhoub truly excels in his expertise, dedication, and client-focused approach. His creativity, problem-solving skills, and impeccable collaboration set him apart from other lawyers we have worked with. We particularly value his integrity, leadership, and commitment to consistently deliver exceptional results.’
‘They have deep knowledge of Middle Eastern markets.’
Key clients
AT Kearney Holdings LTD
DSV Air and Sea DWC-LLC
KPMG- Avocats
Friedrich Boettner
DSV Solutions DWC-LLC
Cedarmount Aromatics SARL
EI Technologies Lebanon Sal
Work highlights
- Advised AT Kearney Holdings LTD on the successful acquisition of MSE.
- Advised Friedrich Boettner MD PC in revising the templates for Non-Qualified Stock Option (NQSO) agreements.
- Advised DSV Air and Sea DWC-LLC on drafting, reviewing, and executing contracts pertinent to the client’s business.
El-Aref International Law Office
El-Aref International Law Office‘s broad caseload encompasses M&A, venture capital, corporate governance, and private equity issues. Aref El-Aref advises a range of international companies, shareholders, and investors on project finance transactions, while Mohamad Ramadan is a key contact for technology clients.
Practice head(s):
Aref El-Aref
Other key lawyers:
Mohamad Ramadan
Testimonials
‘The team consistently delivers highly professional support and has been remarkably efficient in addressing our needs. We are extremely satisfied with the assistance provided by El-Aref International Law Office. Their responsiveness, practical approach, and strong commercial acumen stand out. In short, they help us achieve the outcomes we desire. I wholeheartedly recommend El-Aref International Law Office.’
‘Aref El-Aref is personable, approachable, and highly professional. His extensive knowledge allows him to offer insightful perspectives on various legal matters. What truly sets him apart, however, is his thorough analysis, instinctive grasp of commercial situations, and ability to understand the business imperatives, underlying factors, and potential outcomes, making him an invaluable sounding board for us.’
‘Expertise, collaboration, accuracy, and knowledge.’
‘I am working generally with Aref El-Aref and Mohamed Ramadan. They have the expertise to simplify the legal opinion and understanding of the case.’
‘They have a unique billing structure where they share risk with their clients. This is important to project developers.’
‘Hard working and creative. They are always available and work hard to find solutions for complex issues.’
Work highlights
Chedid Law Offices in association with Dentons
Chedid Law Offices in association with Dentons boasts a strong corporate and commercial practice, advising international clients on contracting, regulatory compliance, and tax issues. Elias Chedid is noted for his expertise in M&A, capital markets and private equity, while Zeina Chedid handles corporate law matters. Georgette Salamé handles regulatory work in the capital markets sector.
Practice head(s):
Elias Chedid
Other key lawyers:
Zeina Chedid; Georgette Salamé
Work highlights
HNS Legal
HNS Legal advises local and international clients on PPPs, M&A, and corporate restructurings. Jad Skaff, Ali El Maoula, and Joseph Nasrallah lead the team, with Skaff and Nasrallah both having extensive experience in corporate and financial cross-border transactions and joint ventures, while Maoula often handles foreign direct investments.
Practice head(s):
Jad Al Skaff; Ali El Maoula; Joseph Nasrallah
Other key lawyers:
Farah Wahab; Jenny Fares; Mia Chbeir; Julien Cordahi
Testimonials
‘The team is able to deal with diverse legal questions. The team is responsive, accommodating, and professional. ’
‘We work mainly with Jenny Fares and Jad Skaff. Both have thorough legal knowledge and a very pragmatic and practical approach to dealing with particular questions. They are friendly and respectful and we have a lot of confidence in their capacities. ’
‘HNS Legal has been extremely consistent in providing clear and structured legal strategy. Furthermore, HNS legal has been instrumental in helping us navigate the requirements of our uncommon organisational structure.’
‘We have been working closely with Jad Skaff who has been of tremendous support to our organisation especially when bespoke legal solutions have been required. Jad’s ability to see the bigger picture is a blessing.’
‘Julien Cordahi has been advising us on media and technology matters. His involvement in discussions relating to AI and data analytics has given our organisation the ability to plan with peace of mind for a critical pivot in our approach to the market.’
‘The HNS Legal team is a knowledgeable team which allows a smooth flow of accurate legal opinions.’
‘Ali El Maoula is extremely knowledgeable, pragmatic, and solution-oriented.’
‘The team is very focused, knowledgeable, responsive, and customer-centric.’
Key clients
Transmed
Amnesty International
CIBCO
IFFCO
Careem
Omatra Group
Sama
S-Com
Tri-Sat Communication Company
Halvest Holding
Halawani Consumer Products
Abchee Group
Shooting Stars
Addleshaw Goddard (Middle East) LLP
P.O. Tech: Paths of Technology
Tornet
CCHO
Initiativez Management Consultants
Habib Bank
DCAF
World Gate Capital
Bird and Bird
PwC Middle East
Middle East Industries and Machineries
Port Manager and Operator
Besins Healthcare
Dr. Costi
Chouiery Group
Siira
Art of Guitar
Roland Berger
Atlas Telecommunication
Thea Pharma
Ashurst Middle East
King & Spalding
Mint Creative Production
Diwan Videos
Work highlights
- Advised Management Solutions Expert on the sale of their business to Kearney.
- Advised Transmed on a series of acquisitions in the consumer goods and food service sectors throughout the Middle East.
- Advised Menzies Aviation on several transactions in Africa, the GCC, and Asia.
Obeid & Medawar Law Firm LLP
Obeid & Medawar Law Firm LLP‘s broad caseload encompasses corporate ventures, wealth management, as well as M&A. Amer F. Obeid leads the team and is a key contact for investors on concession acquisitions across the mining, telecoms, and infrastructure sectors, while Rachad Medawar‘s breadth of expertise spans shipping, labour, and insurance matters. Zeina Azzi is also a key figure, specialising in corporate structuring.
Practice head(s):
Amer F. Obeid
Other key lawyers:
Rachad Medawar; Zeina Azzi; Fouad Obeid
Testimonials
‘The firm values diversity and treats clients with professionalism and respect. I experienced the knowledge and the collaborative approach between all stakeholders.’
‘Rachad Medawar is my contact. His work stands out due to his follow-up and by making sure the job is running properly.’
‘They have strong teamwork work skills, which makes your work process easier.’
‘A great team, they are super professional and helpful.’
‘This practice is unique due to its profound regional expertise combined with an international perspective.’
‘What potential clients should know about the firm’s key strengths is its ability to manage large, intricate projects with efficiency and clarity. Whether it’s handling complex commercial disputes or structuring multi-jurisdictional transactions, the team’s focus on detail and strategic foresight is unparalleled. Moreover, their in-depth experience in dealing with regulatory bodies and government authorities adds a layer of confidence when dealing with sensitive or high-stakes matters.’
‘Amer F. Obeid is an amazing partner and despite his busy schedule, he is always there for his clients regardless of their size or the revenue they generate.’
‘I have dealt with the team on many occasions they are very helpful, patient, and professional, I highly recommend using their services on a daily basis.’
Key clients
Abdullah Qaissieh
Blue Bird Tech
Career Lab
Spaces investments and real estate development
Lead Development
H1 strategic management LTD
Black Onyx LTD
FPI Capital LTD
Avtotor LTD
Duqesa LTD
Wayyak LLC
Mirzi SFO
Collab Ventures
Adlux Furniture
Dilmun Venutures
Eazy Pay LTD
Endowment and Minor Fund Authority
Yas Projects
Design Lab experience
Carter and White
Elie Saab
Hashtag Consultancy
Worldwide Technology
Shoorouq Capital
Makram Hani
Abu Dhabi Sports Council
Dhaher Bin Dhaher Al Mheiri (ADGM)
Em Sherif LTD
40 Capital
Citizen L
DSV Logistics
Astrostone Holdings LTD
Alpha Wave International
Body Tree Studio
Buffalo Wings and Rings International LLC
Cambridge Medical Rehab Center
Chalhoub Group
Delta Konsult
Oros Management
The Emirates Family Office Association
Petropolymer Trading
Rotana Hotel Management Corporation
Al Barakah Investment Holding
BTG Pactual
Star Club
H Reserve
Royal Group
Sami Bou Azza
Greenfield Services
Shukur Holding Limited
Fujifilm
GTV
971 Hospitality
X12 Capital Limited
GAP CORP
Keyrus
Masaood al Masaood
Mohamed Al Zaabi
Sheikh Ali Alnuaimi
Nossair Benbrahim
Tarek Al Samman
Housetex
Add Mind SA
Advanced Lines Group
AEM Holding SAL
Aton Capital Markets Limited (ADGM)
Al Gharbieh For Restaurants and Food
Allied Enterprises LLC
B.O.T Bridge Outsource Transform SAL
Batco Group
Balkis SAL
Beyond your limits events LLC
Beyond your luck Offshore SAL
Bifem Paralu
Biosis Ventures
Blink Experience LLC
Buffalo Wings and Rings Mena Restaurant Management CO LLC
BWR International LLC
Chalhoub Group
Chez Sami SAL Holding
Clap Milano SA (Italy)
Clinique du Levant SAL
Crown Services SAL
Crystal Mountain SAL
Cumberland Insurance and Reinsurance SAL
DOT NGO
Ebtikar Venture Capital (ADGM)
Edenred SAL
Em Sherif SAL
Em Sherif Cafe SAL
Em Sherif By the Sea SAL
Eurofore SAL
French Consulate in Lebanon
Garlidoux SAL
GIL INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS I LIMITED
GIL INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS II LIMITED
GIL INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS III LIMITED
General TV Production FZ LLC
Global Blue SAL
Gulftainer SAL
Hussein Madi Foundation
INEVERT GLOBAL LTD
Inventis Corporation Offshore SAL
Infiouest LLC
Jordan Company for Lottery Development and Management
Lebanese Parliament
Legacy Line Family office
MCT FZE
M Group SAL
Maram Foundation (Lie.)
Maria Group SAL
Matic SAL
Medbox SAL
Megastores of Lebanon SAL – Virgin Megastores
Memerlab SAL
Menzies Middle East and Africa Offshore SAL
Mensa Brands
Middle East Venture Fund L.P or MEVF I
Middle East Venture Partners or MEVP
Nebula X Gaming SAL
Nebula X Gaming Ltd (UK)
PBM SAL
Quill Communication FZ LLC
RMB Group
Rosenza International LLC
Sauce Capital Investments SPV LTD
Seaiby Exchange House
Societe de Gestion Des Restaurants SAL
SOSV
Space Oddity Event Management
Stepahead Ltd
Tamayyaz Sal
Tayah Jewels
Team Nine Boats
The Bros
The Building Block Equity Fund Sicar
The Health Bank DMCC
The Impact Fund by MEVP
The Summit Lounge SAL
Total Care Lebanon SAL
Two Floors Restaurants and Café LLC
Wintergreen SAL
X12 holdings LTD
Yap Holding Limited (UAE+ UAE Freezones)
Zaarour Club SAL
Work highlights
- Advised on the structuring, drafting of documentation, and implementation of a transaction related to a sale of shares.
- Advised on the acquisition of the rights of the renowned Gordonstoun School.
- Negotiated a deal on behalf of Teamnine Boats for the manufacturing and acquisition of 13 boats, valued at 22 million US$.
MENA City Lawyers
Counting buyers, sellers, and private equity providers on its client roster, MENA City Lawyers often handles PPPs, venture capitalism matters, and joint ventures. Fady Jamaleddine advises on numerous project financings, whilst Mirvat Mostafa is skilled at drafting corporate consultations. Corinne Baaklini is the key individual for agency, franchise, and distribution agreements.
Practice head(s):
Fady Jamaleddine; Mirvat Mostafa; Corinne Baaklini
Other key lawyers:
Tala Jamaleddine; Karim Jamaleddine; Mohamad Chamas
Work highlights
Obeid & Partners
Praised as ‘attentive, patient, and transparent’, Obeid & Partners is a strong choice for cross-border M&A, as well as corporate and financing disputes. Ziad Obeid is praised for ‘his client-centric approach’ and co-leads the team with Marie Hayek, who is adept at private equity transactions.
Practice head(s):
Ziad Obeid; Marie Hayek
Testimonials
‘The team I worked with was both very punctual and careful.’
‘Attentive, patient, and transparent.’
‘In the realm of commercial and corporate law, Obaid & Partners excel with their comprehensive understanding of the complex business environment in Lebanon.’
‘Their dedication to client success and meticulous attention to detail make them an invaluable asset to any business.’
‘What truly sets Ziad Obeid apart is his client-centric approach. He is deeply committed to understanding the specific goals and concerns of his clients, ensuring that his legal strategies are aligned with their business objective.’
‘They stand out for their comprehensive knowledge as a full-service law firm, which I highly appreciate.’
‘We value their extensive experience in cross-border transactions and multilingual capabilities, which I consider essential when choosing a partner in the MENA region.’
‘Ziad Obeid shows an exceptional commitment to client service, and his proactive problem-solving and anticipation of client needs have made our cooperation very efficient.’
Key clients
Starbucks
Afreximbank – BMI Guinée
UBS
HOLCIM
KPMG
Sabre
Boa Vista Investimentos e Participações Ltda
Prada
Mohawk
National Bank of Greece S.A
TUV Nord
Rasma Legal
Rasma Legal is well-equipped to handle M&A, private equity ventures, and other complex corporate transactions in Lebanon and the Middle East. Mazen Rasamny leads the team and is experienced in corporate restructuring surrounding the banking, healthcare, construction, and telecoms sectors. Stephanie Naaman is knowledgeable of commercial, civil, and corporate law.
Practice head(s):
Mazen Rasamny
Other key lawyers:
Stephanie Naaman; Rita Abi Nader; Rita Rahme