Al Tamimi & Company has an established presence in the UAE, as well as strong cross-border capabilities. The full-service offering covers corporate structuring work, commercial arrangements, M&A transactions, and establishment and ongoing administration of entities, both onshore and in free zones. Managing partner Samer Qudah leads the team and has extensive experience advising on structuring and restructuring matters for clients in the UAE and across the wider Middle East region. Richard Catling is noted for his broad expertise in corporate transactions, as is senior associate Anna Robinson. Andrea Tithecott leads on the firm’s commercial work and heads the regulatory practice. Nick Watson, who was previously at Trowers & Hamlins LLP, has recently joined the firm's Dubai office as the regional head of the corporate commercial practice.
Commercial, corporate and M&A in United Arab Emirates
Al Tamimi & Company
Practice head(s):
Samer Qudah
Other key lawyers:
Richard Catling; Andrea Tithecott; Rasha al Ardah; Gulsun Ozmen; Izabella Szadkowska; Noff Al-Khafaji; Nick Watson
Testimonials
‘Al Tamimi team are the gold standard. They are extremely dependable in their understanding of the legal framework and the solutions they provide.’
‘Samer Qudah and Rasha al Ardah are absolutely the best lawyers I have met anywhere in the world. Both are extremely responsive, thorough and accurate.’
‘A solid knowledge of the local laws coupled with a practical approach when providing legal advice, providing a good insight into the realities of how laws and regulations are actually implemented by courts and authorities on the ground. They also act expeditiously when there is an urgency in a legal matter.’
Key clients
Queens Gambit Growth Capital
Team Nigma Group
Emirates School Establishment
Ava Risk Group
Panarae FZ-LLC
Brookfield Asset Management Private Institutional Capital Adviser (Canada) LP
Global Infrastructure Management LLC
NH Investment & Securities Co. Ltd
Ontario Teachers Pension Plan
Raffles Infra Holdings Limited
SNAM S.p.A
Galaxy Pipeline Assets Bidco Limited
Dubai Islamic Bank PJSC
The Future Investment Initiative Institute
Global Ventures
BLME Holdings plc
Gate Capital
Damac Properties Dubai Co PJSC
Chongqing Terminus Technologies Co. Ltd
Yas Marina Circuit
RCS Sport S.p.A.
Reed Exhibitions FZ-LLC
Riot Games Limited
Wanbao Mining (Hong Kong) Limited
Anglo Arabian Healthcare Investments LLC
Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo (Holdings) Co WLL
Work highlights
- Represented Queens Gambit Growth Capital on its USD 1.5 billion business combination with SWVL, a tech-driven transportation service that uses fixed schedules and locations for pickups and drop-offs.
- Advised the promoter group on the disposal of a majority interest in the newly incorporated Abu Dubai Global Markets holdco of the business of Team Nigma, which is a franchised e-sports team, for a transaction value of USD 10.2m.
- Advised DSOA and DAFZA on drafting the Dubai Law No. 16 of 2021 on the establishment of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority.
Allen & Overy LLP
Allen & Overy LLP is a recognised market leader, with the team regularly advising regional and international clients on large-scale transactions across the UAE and wider Middle East region. Practice head David Foster has extensive experience advising a variety of clients on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions, as does Khalid Garousha. Abu Dhabi-based Ibrahim Mubaydeen and Nicholas Stuart have significant expertise across a broad range of corporate transactions, as does Ben Ward and Zeid Qursha, both of whom are based in Dubai. Judith Kim specialises in commercial contracting and project development in the oil and gas sector and senior associate Emma Ghaffari focuses on transactions in the private equity space.
Practice head(s):
David Foster
Other key lawyers:
Khalid Garousha; Ibrahim Mubaydeen; Nicholas Stuart; Ben Ward; Zeid Qursha; Judith Kim; Emma Ghaffari; Christian Parker
Testimonials
‘The Allen & Overy M&A team in Dubai is technically strong, super-responsive, and able to work across geographies and effectively manage local counsel for cross-border transactions.’
‘Zeid Qursha is everything a client wants in a partner. He is pro-active, knowledgeable, confident, polite, and can effectively marshal internal and external resources.’
‘David Foster is very accessible, with an ability to explain complex issues in an easy to understand manner. A highly effective and respected negotiator.’
Work highlights
- Advised CDPQ on an investment of USD5bn in three of DP World’s flagship UAE assets.
- Advised Mubadala on the sale of 67% of the shares in Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) to Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA).
- Advised Hassana Investment Company in connection with the acquisition by a consortium comprising BlackRock Real Assets and Hassana of a 49% interest in Saudi Aramco’s gas pipeline network
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance has a preeminent corporate and M&A practice, with specialist partners based across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It primarily advises sovereign wealth funds, government-related entities, financial institutions and corporates active in a broad spectrum of sectors. The group is co-headed by Mohammed Al-Shukairy, who has extensive experience advising on major M&A deals, and Mike Taylor, who primarily focuses on transactions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Jason Mendens is experienced with transactions in the GCC and Africa and Deniz Taz specialises in cross-border M&A and restructurings. Counsel Daniel Boyle has a track record advising private equity and corporate clients. Jack Hardman was recently promoted to partner.
Practice head(s):
Mohammed Al-Shukairy; Mike Taylor
Other key lawyers:
Jason Mendens; Deniz Tas; Daniel Boyle; Jack Hardman
Key clients
Mubadala Investment Company PJSC
Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC
DP World
Saudi Aramco
Aldar Properties PJSC
Emirates NBD Bank PJSC
Abu Dhabi Finance
Abu Dhabi Retirement Pensions & Benefits Fund
AXA S.A.
Bahrain Petroleum Company B.S.C.
Work highlights
- Advised Hassana Investment Company, the investment arm of the Government of Saudi Arabia, on its US$15.5 billion co-investment with Mubadala and other investors in Saudi Aramco’s Gas Pipelines.
- Advised DP World on the sale of a minority stake in its strategic UAE assets to CDPQ for US$5 billion.
- Advised TAQA on its acquisition of a controlling stake in Masdar.
White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP’s M&A offering is well regarded, with a number of dedicated specialists based in the region. It advises clients active in a wide range of sectors, though it has particular expertise in the technology, real estate, infrastructure, and energy sectors, as well as acting for sovereign wealth and private equity funds. Abdulwahid Alulama specialises in cross-border transactions, corporate governance, and commercial deals. Sami Al-Louzi is noted for his expertise acting on M&A transactions in the UAE and Saudi Arabia markets. Steven Worthington has significant experience advising corporate and financial sponsor clients. Marcus Booth heads the firm’s private equity offering. Ali Shaikley left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Abdulwahid Alulama; Marcus Booth; Steven Worthington; Sami Al-Louzi
Other key lawyers:
Sonia Abdul-Rahman; Stefan Mrozinski; Anisah Giansiracusa
Testimonials
‘Very competent team. Always available and very user friendly.’
‘Very innovative billing structure to align interests with the client.’
‘Strong global network as a firm to be able to bring subject matter experts during the transaction.’
‘Anisah Giansiracusa – very competent and user friendly. Takes the lead on calls and negotiations, and always well prepared.’
Key clients
Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners
Abu Dhabi Financial Group
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company
Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority
ADES International Holding Limited
Agthia Group PJSC
AlKhabeer Capital
Alpha Bank S.A.
Amazon
Arabian Contracting Services Company JSC
Basalt Infrastructure Partners
CI Capital Holding S.A.E
DP World
EFG-Hermes
Emirates NBD Capital
ENBD REIT Plc
Etisalat
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
GFH Financial Group
Goldman Sachs
GSO Capital Partners
International Holdings Company PJSC
J.P. Morgan Securities plc
Kentech Corporate Holdings Limited
Kuwait Food Company
Ma’arif Holding Company for Education and Training
Majid Al Futtaim Holding
Mubadala Investment Company
National Bonds Corporation
Oak Hill Advisors
Paradise Capital
Ports Customs and Free Zones Corporation
RIMCO Investments
Rothschild & Co.
Saudi Arabian Oil Company
SHUAA Capital
Strategic Value Partners
United Arab Chemical Carriers Limited
UTICO FZC
Arkan Building Materials
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority PJSC
Work highlights
- Advised on the sale by Hassan El Ali of 100% of the shares of ZMI Holdings to ADNOC, the Abu Dhabi government’s energy and petrochemicals holding company. The transaction is valued at approximately $1.5 billion.
- Advised Yellow Door Energy on the sale of a majority stake to UK private equity firm Actis.
- Advised DP World on its US$1.2 billion acquisition of syncreon, a US-based logistics provider with a global presence through 91 sites in 19 countries and revenue of US$1.1 billion.
Clyde & Co LLP
Clyde & Co LLP has particular expertise in the healthcare, education and technology sectors. It handles a broad range of mandates, with particular strength advising on commercial contracts. Practice head Naji Hawayek has extensive experience acting on M&A deals in the region. Ben Smith specialises in foreign direct investment into the UAE and Stephen McKenna focuses on M&As and joint ventures. Ross Barfoot is noted for his expertise in corporate education matters, whilst Roshanak Bassiri Gharb has strength in regulatory issues as well as public and marine M&A mandates. In June 2023, Nora Al Muhamad and Darren Harris joined from PwC.
Practice head(s):
Naji Hawayek
Other key lawyers:
Ben Smith; Stephen McKenna; Ross Barfoot; Roshanak Bassiri Gharb; Philip O’Riordan; Abhimanyu Jalan; Jonathan Silver; Nora Al Muhamad; Darren Harris
Testimonials
‘The team is very knowledgeable, clear when introducing or explaining concepts, and thorough in providing all possible legal actions.’
‘Naji Hawayek is an excellent lawyer, works as a true partner and advisor with extensive knowledge and strategic advisory. He is also very well-connected and maintains a good network of likeminded people.’
‘Darren Harris is an experienced transactional lawyer who is a pleasure to work with. He is able to strongly advocate his clients’ positions whilst still taking a commercial approach.’
Key clients
Eradah Capital LLC
Abu Dhabi Health Services Company PJSC
RSA Insurance Group Ltd
Intact Financial Corporation
Egis Projects S.A.
The National Investor
Al Najah Education LLC
Mapei SPA
Babilou Investment LLC
Knuru Capital Limited
Select Investments Limited
Shuaa Capital
VTTI Terminal Support Services B.V.
Arata International FZCO
British Business Group Abu Dhabi
Deloitte LLP
Reigate Grammar School
DLA Piper
DLA Piper handles a full range of strategic transactions for financial institutions, global enterprises, and emerging start-ups, with particular expertise in the technology and healthcare and life sciences sectors. Will Seivewright, who has significant experience advising on public and private M&A transactions, co-heads the team alongside Jamie Ryder, who also heads the IP and technology practice and has strong experience in the media, sports and entertainment space. Richard Hughes and Thérèse Abou-Zeid are noted for their strength advising on multi-jurisdictional M&A deals across the GCC region.
Practice head(s):
Will Seivewright; Jamie Ryder
Other key lawyers:
Richard Hughes; Thérèse Abou-Zeid
Testimonials
‘Pragmatic, responsive, competent.’
Key clients
ADNOC Global Distribution Company LLC
Stillfront Group AB
Work highlights
- Advising ADNOC on the acquisition of 16 retail fuel stations in the Central Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at a purchase price up to USD 8 million.
- Acted for Stillfront on its acquisition of 100% of the share capital in Jawaker FZ LLC, an online gaming business based in the UAE with operations in Jordan. The total upfront consideration was USD 205 million, on a cash and debt-free basis, part of which was paid to the sellers in shares issued by Stillfront.
Baker McKenzie LLP
Baker McKenzie LLP has an active corporate and commercial practice, and is particularly well regarded in the consumer goods and retail transactions space. The group is co-led by Omar Momany, who focuses on public and private M&A, corporate restructuring and disputes, and joint ventures, alongside Osama Audi, who advises on M&A, venture capital and investment fund matters. Hani Naja has been engaged in various corporate structuring matters and Adnan Doha has broad corporate expertise across a range of sectors. Abeer Jarrar focuses on equity capital markets and M&A transactions.
Practice head(s):
Omar Momany; Osama Audi
Other key lawyers:
Hani Naja; Adnan Doha; Abeer Jarrar; Borys Dackiw
Testimonials
‘Adnan Doha gave practical, sensible legal advice that took into account key commercial considerations. The drafting was clear, concise and pitched at precisely the right level for this deal.’
‘Strong knowledge coupled with a pragmatic commercial approach.’
Key clients
Ripples Capital Limited
AirCarbon Pte. Ltd.
Mohamad Bin Salman Foundation
Tawal
Spitaleri Group
Saudi Venture Capital
Tanmiah Food Company
Dar Al Takaful PJSC
Wipro Limited
Al Muqarram Group of Companies
Getz Bros & Co (BVI) Inc.
AP Ventures Limited
Gulf Insurance Group K.S.C.P.
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
Allegion Investments (UK) Limited
Gulf Marketing Group
Seddiqi Holding
Taaleem Education
Deliveroo
Emaar Group
Emirates National Oil Company
Sayacorp Capital
UltraTech Cement Limited
Esterad Investment Company BSC
Work highlights
- Advised Ripples Capital Limited, the world’s leading cloud kitchen company, on the USD 415 million Series C venture capital round led by SoftBank, the largest-ever venture financing round in the Middle East and the first investment by SoftBank in a Middle-East based start-up.
- Advised Gulf Marketing Group, a leading family-owned retail company in the Middle East, on the acquisition of the Geant, Monoprix and Franprix franchise from Dubai Holding and Meraas.
- Advising Saudi-listed poultry giant, Tanmiah Food Company, on the sale of a significant interest in two businesses to US-listed global proteins giant, Tyson Foods. In addition to the acquisition and joint venture agreements, the transaction included a suite of commercial agreements relating to the businesses.
Hadef & Partners LLC
Hadef & Partners LLC advises on a full spectrum of corporate and commercial matters. Ahmad Sergieh and Yasser Omar head the corporate teams in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, respectively, and both have significant experience advising on cross-border transactions. Managing partner Sadiq Jafar specialises in inward investment, joint ventures, and M&A matters. Victoria Woods leads the commercial group, and is particularly active in the retail, leisure and hospitality and digital media sectors, while James Dunne rounds off the leadership team. Patrick Tweedale is also noted for his M&A expertise.
Practice head(s):
Ahmad Sergieh; Yasser Omar; Victoria Woods; Sadiq Jafar; James Dunne
Other key lawyers:
Patrick Tweedale; Paul Wynne
Testimonials
‘Hadef & Partners is a professional firm to deal with on the other side of transactions, and practical and commercial in negotiations.’
‘Patrick Tweedale is an excellent transactional lawyer. His technical legal skills combined with a commercial approach to getting deals done make him highly recommended.’
‘Hadef & Partners is a business partner to clients rather than a service provider. They understand clients’ businesses very well and they appreciate the business relationship.’
Key clients
Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC
Q Holding PJSC
Abu Dhabi Department of Government Support
Saadiyat Development and Investment Company
G42
Ethmar Holdings
Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC
Multiply Group PJSC
Response Plus Holding PJSC
United Fidelity Insurance Company PJSC
Ras Al Khaimah Cement Investment Company PJSC
International Holding Company
National Takaful
Impala Terminals Group S.à r.l.
Prometheus Group
Ahmad Tabari
The Farjam Collection Ltd.
Invictus Investment Co PLC
King & Spalding LLP
The corporate, finance and investments group at King & Spalding LLP has broad sector expertise across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, including in the energy and infrastructure, food and beverage, and healthcare sectors. Nabil Issa leads the team, and has particular expertise acting for Saudi governmental and quasi-governmental clients. James Stull offers funds and asset management expertise, whilst Macky O’Sullivan, who was recently promoted to partner, is particularly active in the venture capital space. Simon Rahimzada departed to Ashurst LLP in late 2022.
Practice head(s):
Nabil Issa
Other key lawyers:
James Stull; Macky O’Sullivan
Key clients
Cerberus
The Western Union Company
STV
Saudi Investment Recycling Company
General Dynamics
EWTP Arabia
iKcon Holdco Limited
Global Ventures Ltd
Riyad Capital
Arcapita
Bateel Group
Mizuho Gulf Capital Partners
Saudi Power Procurement Company
Abu Dhabi Capital Group
Gulf Investment Corporation
GIC Singapore
L Catterton
BEEAH Group
Middle East Paper Company
Select Investment
Saur SAS
Besix Group
Gulf Islamic Investment Company
GLD Partners
Penny Software
Rua Growth Fund
Azmeel Contracting Company
Nazer Group Company Limited
Shorooq VC Partners Ltd
Impact Capital Company
Wadi Makkah
Gleeds
Derayah Financial
Al Faris Food Industries Ltd and Al Faris Trading Limited
Seedra Investment Company
WPP
Al Dobowi
Foundation Holding
Flat 6 Labs
Dar Al Arkan
Quara Holding
Egis
Latham & Watkins LLP
Latham & Watkins LLP has a well-regarded corporate practice, with the team regularly advising on both the buy and sell side of M&A transactions. Its expertise spans a broad range of sectors, though it is particularly active in the technology, healthcare and energy industries. Practice head Chris Lester has extensive experience advising on public and private M&A transactions across the wider Middle East region. Eyad Latif was recently promoted to partner and specialises in cross-border M&A. Omar Maayeh focuses on corporate transactions in the technology venture capital space.
Practice head(s):
Chris Lester
Other key lawyers:
Eyad Latif; Omar Maayeh
Testimonials
‘Eyad Latif and Omar Maayeh’s knowledge of law in this region is impeccable. They offer practical solutions and play a spot on advisory roles for several VC funds.’
‘Eyad Latif and Omar Maayeh are quick, detail-oriented, and very practical in their approach. They are excellent advisors.’
‘The Latham & Watkins team is highly skilled and professional. They deliver the required work in a timely manner. The work can be easily provided to the client from several departments without any complications.’
‘The team are always present when needed and they always make the time to understand the client’s needs and adhere to them.’
‘Eyad Latif and Omar Maayeh provide high-level advice and engagement in the work required at any given time.’
Key clients
OCTAL
Silver Lake Partners
POSRocket
SIG Combibloc
Jawaker
EIG
Chimera
Tamara
Sequoia Capital
Linklaters
Linklaters’ UAE corporate team is well versed in handling M&A and corporate transactions for an impressive client base, which includes large corporates, financial sponsors, and government-related entities. The group is co-led by Nicholas Edwards and Scott Campbell from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, respectively. Edwards focuses on advising regional and international clients on cross-border M&A transactions in the energy and infrastructure sectors and Campbell has a track record handling complex M&A and equities deals in the region.
Practice head(s):
Nicholas Edwards; Scott Campbell
Key clients
DP World Limited
SHUAA Capital
Emirates Telecommunications Group Company PJSC
Meraas Holding LLC
Emaar Properties
Emaar Malls
The Mawarid Investment Group
Bytedance Pte. Ltd.
NEOM
SABIC Agri-Nutrients Company
BRF Foods GmbH
TAQA
Mobile Telecommunications Company Saudi Arabia
Saudi Electricity Company
Ahli United Bank
Work highlights
- Advised Emaar Properties PJSC, the largest integrated and diversified real estate company in the MENA region, on its statutory merger with Emaar Malls PJSC.
- Advised Meraas Leisure and Entertainment LLC on its acquisition of 100% of DXB Entertainment PJSC, which involved the first-ever all-cash tender offer in the UAE and successful completion of the first-ever ‘squeeze out’ process in the UAE.
- Advised SHUAA Capital PSC on the sale of its indirect 20% shareholding in Mirfa International Power and Water Company to a subsidiary of Sojitz Corporation.
Akin
Akin has a dedicated corporate practice, with the team advising a number of sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, and investors. It is noted for its strength in sovereign investment-related mandates, and is particularly active in the TMT, leisure and tourism, and defence sectors. Wael Jabsheh leads the group and has extensive experience in the region advising on domestic and cross-border M&A, joint ventures, and private equity matters. Associate Mazen Baddar has broad corporate and commercial transactional expertise.
Practice head(s):
Wael Jabsheh
Other key lawyers:
Mazen Baddar
Testimonials
‘The team is highly professional with in-depth knowledge in the subject matters, and delivers on time with high quality.’
‘The team understands the client’s business, thinks strategically, and addresses issues from a practical point of view.’
Baker Botts L.L.P.
The corporate team at Baker Botts L.L.P. is recognised for its strength in advising overseas investors seeking to expand into the UAE and wider Middle East region. It also has particular expertise in the franchising space, with the team advising on a number of high-profile corporations. The group is co-headed by Haitham Hawashin, who has extensive experience in cross-border public and private M&A deals, and Mark Bisch, who focuses on joint ventures, contracting, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance matters.
Practice head(s):
Mark Bisch; Haitham Hawashin
Other key lawyers:
Hassan Elsayed; Stephen Matthews; Shakir Mabrur
Testimonials
‘The Baker Botts team has the mentality of helping clients solve problems, whether through pure legal analysis and more often than not, business guidance. They don’t just look at issues through the legal lens, but offer a comprehensive view of overall risk to your business.’
‘Mark Bisch stands out because of his dedication to being a sounding board and sparring partner for the client. His responsiveness is astounding.’
‘Hassan Elsayed has very deep knowledge and understanding of local law, and the practical viewpoint for how to actually get things done.’
‘Very good team, always available, and very diversified resources.’
‘Haitham Hawashin and Shakir Mabrur are excellent in supporting clients. They are very professional and look to the best of the interest of their client.’
‘What makes this practice unique is the combination of Mark Bisch and Hassan Elsayed who have been practicing together in Dubai since the mid-1990s. They have seen it all in Dubai and they are able to provide extremely practical, relevant, local practice advice.’
‘Very personalised approach with a lot of attention to the client experience.’
‘Very proactive approach to instructions, dealt with very swiftly and concisely. Particularly good experience with Mark Bisch.’
Key clients
Derayah Financial
Eshraq Investments
Halliburton
McDermott International
Shuaa Capital psc
Black & Veatch
Oxford Nanopore Technologies
Yas Holding LLC
GFH Financial Group BSC
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton showcases strong multi-jurisdictional M&A expertise, with the team regularly advising sovereign wealth funds and pension funds, as well as international corporates and investors, on M&A transactions in the UAE and the wider MENA region. Gamal Abouali specialises in M&A, capital market transactions and projects and Chris Macbeth has a broad commercial practice that covers cross-border M&A and private equity-related matters. Lynn Ammar was promoted to partner in January 2022.
Other key lawyers:
Gamal Abouali; Chris Macbeth; Lynn Ammar; George Taylor
Testimonials
‘There is a solid level of consistency of the legal service (both in terms of quality of advice and the collaboration) across different offices and jurisdictions. The engagement with the key partners is always proactive and personal.’
‘The firm is very innovative as demonstrated by ClearyX, the firm’s platform for AI and data-driven legal services.’
‘Chris Macbeth is an exceptional corporate partner.’
Key clients
Mubadala
OCI N.V.
Ministry of Oil, Republic of Iraq
Fertiglobe plc
Brookfield
Work highlights
- Advised OCI N.V. and its subsidiary OCI Intermediate B.V. in the sale of a 15% stake in OCI’s methanol business to ADQ and Alpha Dhabi Holding for a total consideration of $375 million.
- Advised the investment funds managed by affiliates of Brookfield Business Partners in the acquisition of 60% of Magnati, the payment solutions business of First Abu Dhabi Bank.
- Advised the Ministry of Oil of the Republic of Iraq and two Iraqi state-owned companies on the gas growth integrated project with TotalEnergies, which involved total investments announced at $27 billion.
Dentons
Dentons has a substantive corporate offering that is particularly active in the energy, defence, TMT, real estate, and healthcare sectors. With the firm’s wider regional network, as well as strong local and international expertise, it is also able to assist in cross-border transactional matters. Practice head Iain Black has significant experience acting on M&A and joint venture mandates in the region. Catherine Beckett has a broad practice, covering M&A transactions alongside equity capital markets and business establishment matters.
Practice head(s):
Iain Black
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive and always provides the full picture with respect to a certain matter. Their attitude is very professional.’
Key clients
National Central Cooling Company
Alamar Foods DMCC
BASF
Children’s National Medical Centre
Delta Partners
DHL
DMCC
DWTC
Gulf Capital
MENA Infrastructure Fund
Redington International
Sharjah Islamic Bank
Sweetheart Kitchen
Snam
Delivery Hero
Work highlights
- Advising Tabreed in relation to its new joint venture with IFC, a member of the World Bank Group.
- Advising Tabreed on the purchase of the shareholding of Mubadala Infrastructure Partners Limited in the Maryah Island district cooling facilities in Abu Dhabi.
- Advising Delivery Hero on their participation in Dubai-based buy-now pay later platform Tabby’s series B investment round.
Eversheds Sutherland LLP
Eversheds Sutherland LLP handles a broad range of corporate and commercial transactions for both public and private sector clients. Zeid Hanania leads the corporate arm of the group, and is particularly active in private equity, M&A and joint venture mandates. Steve Jennings is also noted for his experience in these areas. Geraldine Ahern leads the commercial side and has significant expertise advising on contractual structuring matters, distribution and franchising arrangements, and drafting bespoke commercial contracts.
Practice head(s):
Zeid Hanania; Geraldine Ahern
Other key lawyers:
Steve Jennings
Testimonials
‘The Eversheds corporate team is a hardworking one with talented individuals.’
‘Zeid Hanania is very strong with an excellent technical background, strong connections in the region and, crucially, bilingual for the Middle East.’
‘Steve Jennings is an upcoming star who is very responsive, diligent and focused.’
Key clients
VFS Group
Savola Group
Gulf Capital
Olive Rock Partners
Levant Capital
Al Faisaliah Group
Arabian International Healthcare Holding Co.
Eaton
Savola Foods Company
Cedar White Bradley
Nestle
Michelin
Cotecna Inspection SA
Work highlights
- Advised Savola Food Company on the US$260m of leading snacks manufacturer Bayara Holding from Levant Capital and other shareholders.
- Advised Air Products on the acquisition of hydrogen assets in the UAE and Bahrain from Air Liquide.
- Advised Arabian International Healthcare Holding Company on its strategic acquisition of a controlling stake in Innovative Care Company.
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP has an active corporate M&A practice in the UAE and wider Middle East region. Its client base includes international investors, sovereign wealth funds, and state-owned entities, and it is particularly active in the areas of energy and infrastructure, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and TMT. Practice head Chris Walters is regularly instructed on multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions, joint ventures and investments. Senior associate Anna Szyndler is noted for her broad corporate expertise.
Practice head(s):
Chris Walters
Other key lawyers:
Anna Szyndler; Andrew El-Khoury
Key clients
Lagardère Travel Retail
Aramex
International Holding Company
Uber
Marubeni
Provis Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advised Lagardère Travel Retail on its acquisition of a majority share and controlling interest in HWH’s food and beverage operations at Dubai airport, by way of a share deal.
- Advised Aramex PJSC, a leading global provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions, on its sale of a leading records and information management provider in the MENA region, Information Fort, to Iron Mountain Limited.
- Advised IHC in connection with its acquisition of 75% of Abu Dhabi Vegetable Oil Company.
Norton Rose Fulbright
The corporate, M&A, and securities practice at Norton Rose Fulbright is headed by Adjou Ait Ben Idir, who has significant experience advising local and international clients on inbound and outbound cross-border transactions. Zubair Mir, who recently joined from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, and Kayaan Unwalla have additional expertise advising sovereign wealth fund and government entities on international investments and M&A transactions. Counsel Shahrzad Askarpour is noted for her experience advising on multi-jurisdictional M&A mandates.
Practice head(s):
Adjou Ait Ben Idir
Other key lawyers:
Zubair Mir; Kayaan Unwalla; Shahrzad Askarpour; Jonathan Burton
Testimonials
‘Norton Rose stands out because their partners and the team are very responsive. They listen to the clients and understand the clients’ needs and the commercial rationale behind it.’
‘They provide clients with information and judgement that help the client make the decision. It is not common to see such a good business sense for the entire team including both partners and senior associates.’
‘Jonathan Burton’s availability, legal knowledge and commercial sense are impressive. He is a good resource in Middle East, both in the legal industry or in the financial industry.’
‘Adjou Ait Ben Idir is highly knowledgeable, well-respected in the local market, and effective at getting deals over the line.’
Key clients
Royal Group
International Holding Company
Total SA
Tawazun
Arise
Oman International
Public Investment Fund
Saudia Airlines
Pure Health
AIG
AXA XL
First Gulf Bank
Asteco Property Management
Public Investment Fund
Etisalat
Injazat
bp
Howden
Work highlights
- Advised Abu Dhabi listed, International Holding Company on its USD 2 billion investment into Adani Group.
- Advising Bybit on its entry into the UAE market, including setting up of new locations for its technology and software business, investment arm and establishment of headquarters in the UAE free zones DWTC and DIFC.
- Advised Africa Transformation & Industrialization Fund Limited Partnership on the purchase of shares held by OLAM International LTD in Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms, Arise Infrastructure Service and Gabon Special Economic Zone Infrastructures SA.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP’s corporate offering is particularly active in the healthcare and life sciences sector, as well as in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Mohammad Tbaishat heads the team from Dubai, with significant expertise advising on M&A, private equity matters and joint ventures. Senior associate Christopher Neal focuses on advising multinational clients on their operations in the UAE and wider GCC region, whilst Alexandra Aikman is noted for her role in developing the firm’s commercial practice.
Practice head(s):
Mohammad Tbaishat
Other key lawyers:
Christopher Neal; Alexandra Aikman; Nathalia Elhage; Kate Iliff
Testimonials
‘A preferred choice of practitioners in the UAE. General all-round capacity to deal with multifaceted issues in corporate, funding, and litigation matters.’
Key clients
NMC Healthcare LTD
Speedy Hire PLC
Lion Group
Advanced Technology and Development
Sanabil Investments
National Center for Privatization
Work highlights
- Advising the NMC Healthcare in respect of it USD 7.1 billion restructuring, allowing the NMC group (being the largest private healthcare group in the UAE) to forgo bankruptcy and continue operating
- Advising Sanabil Investments on a number of investments in the region, including e-commerce market place Sary and fintech company Tamara.
- Advising NASDAQ-listed Lion Group in relation to its indirect acquisition of a UAE crypto-trading business.
Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard handles a broad spectrum of corporate and commercial transactions. Practice head Andrew Johnston specialises in cross-border M&A, joint venture, and private equity mandates. Lowri Llwyd has particular expertise in the retail, TMT, and education sectors, and Owen Richards regularly acts on M&A and investment mandates within the MENA region. Hardeep Plahe and Fraser Dawson recently joined from Gibson Dunn; they have expertise across a broad range of corporate transactions, while Ibrahim Siddiki is likewise a new name, having arrived in March 2023 from Bracewell LLP.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Johnston
Other key lawyers:
Lowri Llwyd; Owen Richards; Fraser Dawson; James Whittam; Mhairi Cruickshank; Ibrahim Siddiki
Testimonials
‘They work great as a team, with good partner support and a great junior team.’
‘Fraser Dawson has proven to be a strong engagement partner, and Andrew Johnston is always a strong leader.’
‘Impeccable delivery with exceptional service.’
‘Lowri Llwyd gives exceptional legal advice and is a fantastic commercial partner. She has also built a team of knowledgeable associates who are great to work with and anticipate our needs.’
‘James Whittam and Mhairi Cruickshank are both really strong in delivering well thought out drafts of the legal docs.’
‘The AG team give outstanding legal advice, but more than that they provide exceptional commercial advice with a deep understanding of local laws and practices.’
‘Always pragmatic, practical and responsive, with good commercial understanding of clients’ businesses.’
‘The team at Addleshaw Goddard is very responsive and know how to adapt quickly to each matter. They are excellent negotiators and know how to get to their target while letting go just a little.’
Key clients
3S Investment Limited
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company for Distribution PJSC
ADS Securities LLC
Agility
United Projects for Aviation Services Company
Al Boom Marine
Scope Investment
AJWGK Limited
HLD Group
Al Futtaim Group
Altro Limited
Aldar Properties
Amiga Group EMEA Ltd
AJWGK Limited
ARY Digital
ASCA Capital
AVEVA
Schneider Electric
Bios Middle East
Blue Ocean Terminals Limited
British American Tobacco Middle East
Carlyle Group
Carus Animal Health
Cavendish Maxwell Real Estate Valuation Services LLC
CedarBridge Capital Partners
Cobham Satcom
Coffee Planet LLC
Cognita Limited
Coty Inc.
Coty Middle East FZCO
Dassault Aviation
Diageo
DP World
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
El Grocer Limited
Element Materials Technology
Emirates Flight Catering
Emirates Integrated Technology Company
Estée Lauder Middle East
Exterran Corporation
Farfetch
Finasi Group
Fircroft Engineering Services
G4S plc
GEMS Education
Global Hotel Alliance
Great Lakes Africa Energy
Guggenheim KBBO Partners Limited
Gulf Capital
Hawk Limited
Hoare Lea
IFFCO
InfraCo Africa
J.K. Cement Works (Fujairah) FZC
John and Maura Kent
Kasamar Holdings
Kids First Group
Klinger Ltd
Knoma LTD
Kraft Heinz MEA LLC
Max’s Group
Mizuho Gulf Capital Partners
Moorfields Eye Hospital
Multiplex Construction
Newsgroup International
Carma International
Oman Flour Mills
Owners of Seashell Nursery
Phanes Group
Phenna Group
Polyeco Waste Management
Green Evolution
Reckitt Benckiser
Rhipe Limited
ResMed
RJ O’Brien
Sami Alom
Chat Time Café LLC
Earnest Insurance LLC
Signify International B.V
Sovereign Group LTD
TA Associates
Talria Limited
The Carlyle Group and Ideal Holding Limited
The Shareholders of International Electromechanical Services Co. L.L.C
Total Processing
Traffic Digital Group
Val Morgan Australia Pty Ltd
Viking International Limited
Al Waha Land L.L.C.
WSP Opus
Yum!
Work highlights
- Advised Cognita Limited, a global private schools group, on the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Horizon International School LLC and the entire issued share capital of International Management Ventures LLC, which operates Ranches Primary School and Ranches Nursery.
- Advised DP World on Canadian investment group CDPQ’s USD 5 billion investment in three of its flagship UAE assets, Jebel Ali Port, Jebel Ali Free Zone and National Industries Park, and in relation to its joint venture with British International Investment (formerly CDC Group) to invest in origin and destination ports, inland container depots, economic zones and other logistics assets across Africa.
- Advised Waha Land L.L.C. on its on-going disposal of 17 leased warehouse buildings at the Al Markaz Industrial Development to Peninsula Real Estate Management for AED555 million.
Afridi & Angell
The corporate and commercial team at Afridi & Angell is experienced in M&A, joint ventures, restructuring, and commercial contracts. Bashir Ahmed, who has extensive experience advising on cross-border corporate transactional and competition matters, co-leads the group with Charles Laubach, who has particular strength in government procurement matters. Danielle Lobo is noted for her experience in M&A and private equity transactions and Abdus Samad focuses on transactional and corporate advisory matters.
Practice head(s):
Bashir Ahmed; Charles Laubach
Other key lawyers:
Danielle Lobo; Abdus Samad
Testimonials
‘Very good impression of the firm. It gives clients’ strategic approaches, and short, quick answers.’
‘Charles Laubach is experienced, mature, and gives strategic answers.’
Ashurst LLP
Ashurst LLP’s corporate transactions and international projects group acts on both sell-side and buy-side transactions and has strong capabilities in joint venture work. The team is co-led by Simon Fraser, who has extensive experience advising on cross-border and domestic M&A transactions, alongside David Charlier, managing partner of the firm’s Middle East offering. Stuart James has particular expertise advising on corporate and general commercial transactions in the energy and infrastructure sectors, and Simon Rahimzada joined the firm in late 2022 from King & Spalding LLP.
Practice head(s):
Simon Fraser; David Charlier
Other key lawyers:
Stuart James; Simon Rahimzada
Testimonials
‘Simon Fraser is a key name of note.’
Key clients
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
Sojitz
ADES Investments Holding Ltd
Geltec Inc. Pte. Ltd.
Kuwait Petrochemical Company
Petrochemicals Industries Company K.S.C
Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners
American Securities
Abu Dhabi Pension Fund
Schlumberger
Brookfield
KPI
KUFPEC
Venice Energy
Work highlights
- Advised a regional investor on its initial bid to acquire an interest in an entity holding rights to Saudi Aramco’s gas pipeline system within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (overall transaction value exceeding US$15.5bn).
- Advised ADES Investments on the US$516m takeover of the DIFC domiciled and London listed ADES International by a consortium entity jointly owned by ADES Investments, The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and Zamil Investments.
- Advised ADNOC in connection with its acquisition of a significant interest in Masdar, which involved conducting legal due diligence on Masdar’s portfolio of clean energy projects and investments across more than 15 jurisdictions.
Bird & Bird
Bird & Bird has particular expertise advising clients in technology-related sectors, as well as handling franchising and licensing agreements on the commercial side. It is also sought out by UAE government entities. Anders Nilsson heads the corporate and aviation practice from Abu Dhabi and Melissa Murray heads the commercial side from Dubai. Johannes Eisser specialises in M&A and joint venture transactions. Senior associate Surabhi Singhi is noted for her experience advising on corporate and regulatory matters.
Practice head(s):
Anders Nilsson; Melissa Murray
Other key lawyers:
Johannes Eisser; Surabhi Singhi; Eleonore Mayer
Testimonials
‘The knowledge of M&A law is second-to-none.’
‘A very calm and composed team. Innovative in its legal thinking, and very responsive.’
‘Johannes Eisser is a heavyweight M&A lawyer – methodical and composed, willing to go the extra mile and keep a calm head when timelines and pressure were exerted from other stakeholders.’
‘Johannes Eisser has a natural ability to break down complex legal issues and explain them to the layman.’
‘Strong knowledge and availability.’
‘Melissa Murray is very knowledgeable in franchising and business laws in multiple countries in the Middle East. She oversees and utilizes skilled associates to help provide us with effective and cost-efficient service.’
Key clients
Jebel Ali School
ATPI Travel LLC
Florin Court Capital
Burgerizzr
Darden Restaurants
Hustle n’ Flow
Mondofix Inc.
Sirius Aviation Capital
Takura AB
The Grooming Company
Dubai Cultiv8
Circle K Procurement and Brands Limited
Smoke’s Poutinerie International, Inc.
InterOil Group
Work highlights
- Assisted Jebel Ali School, a leading British curriculum school in Dubai, in a AED234 million transaction involving the transfer of the school and its operations to a subsidiary of Taaleem Holdings PSC.
- Assisted UK based hedge fund Florin Court Capital in setting up a fund management entity and a feeder fund structure in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), including day to day corporate and regulatory advice.
CMS
CMS has a substantial corporate and commercial practice, with particular sector expertise in the areas TMT, hospitality and leisure, and energy and infrastructure. John O’Connor heads the team; he has a track record advising on domestic and cross-border M&A transactions. Patrik Daintry focuses on international M&A, PE and joint venture transactions. Graham Conlon recently joined the Dubai team, and is well-regarded for his M&A expertise.
Practice head(s):
John O’Connor
Other key lawyers:
Patrik Daintry; Graham Conlon
Key clients
Aldar Properties PJSC
Investment Corporation of Dubai
STC Pay
TikTok
Etisalat
AWRostamani
EMPG
Dubai Electricity & Water Authority
Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA)
Medtronic
Eni
Weir Group
Hambro Perks/Oryx
Corinthia Hotels
Oman Hotel Tourism Company
Intercontinental Hotel Group
Hilton
Al Dahra Group
Work highlights
- Advising Aldar Properties on its $136m acquisition of Abu Dhabi Business Hub, a leading logistics business hub based in Abu Dhabi.
- Advising Weir Group on their $120 million acquisition of Motion Metrics, a global AI business active in the mining sector.
- Advising Gupshup, a leading conversational messaging platform, on its $100 million acquisition of Knowlarity Communications.
Dechert LLP
The corporate and securities team at Dechert LLP advises regional and international clients on the full investment life cycle, and has particular expertise handling corporate and financing transactions, as well as inbound and outbound M&A matters across the MENA region. Philip Dowsett leads the group, and has significant experience acting for private equity firms and sovereign wealth funds on M&A deals. Previous practice head Chris Sioufi left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Philip Dowsett
Testimonials
‘Very responsive, good commercial advice. Helpful with introductions.’
‘Good commitment and advice. They’re always there for their clients.’
Key clients
Amanat Holdings
Malabar Investments PLC
Tabby Inc
Alameda Group
OnTechnologies
Optilan Group
The Giving Movement
GMA
Tarjama
Gibson Dunn
Gibson Dunn has an active M&A offering, with the team advising a number of financial sponsors on the buy-side and sell-side of M&A transactions. It also has expertise in restructuring matters. Hanna Chalhoub was recently promoted to partner, and is noted for his know-how in cross-border transactions, covering acquisitions, dispositions, and joint ventures. Marwan Elaraby, Renad Younes, and Jade Chu have recently joined from Shearman & Sterling LLP.
Other key lawyers:
Hanna Chalhoub; Marwan Elaraby; Renad Younes; Jade Chu
Key clients
Abudawood Group
Agility Public Warehousing Company
Arcapita
Emirates NBD PJSC
Etisalat
Fajr Capital Limited
FTI Consulting Inc.
Forum Energy Technologies
Investcorp
Jadwa Investment Company
Kuwait Food Company (Americana) KSCC
Kuwait Investment Authority
Mumtalakat Bahrain Holding Company
Safanad
HFW
The corporate offering at HFW is co-led by Rula Dajani Abuljebain and Richard Lucas from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, respectively. It has particular expertise in international trade and commercial contracts, primarily acting for clients in the maritime, commodities, energy, and transport sectors. Tania De Swart has significant corporate and commercial experience and Vince Gordon is increasingly involved in corporate regulatory matters. Alexa Reid left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Rula Dajani Abuljebain; Richard Lucas
Other key lawyers:
Tania De Swart; Vince Gordon; Jemima McDonald
Key clients
Lancaster6 DMCC
Force 10 Limited
Aquarius Global Limited
Aspen Medical
Emirates Business Group
SAAB AB
Harris Corporation
Flight Centre Travel Group
Etihad Rail Company PJSC
Bahrain Airport Services
James Fisher & Sons plc
Aditya Birla Group
DOW Chemicals
Chedid Capital Holdings
Munich Re
Al Futtaim Willis
PPG Industries
ADNOC
Alstom Transport
Andritz AG
Hartree Partners
DP World
P&O Maritime
Work highlights
- Advised the Aditya Birla Group, an Indian multinational US$46bn conglomerate, on its proposed investment in Zand Bank, the UAE’s first digital bank.
- Advising Force 10 on all its joint venture and supply arrangements with Abu Dhabi’s EDGE Group.
- Advising Tribe Infrastructure Group, headquartered in the ADGM, Abu Dhabi on their corporate structure, regulatory issues and shareholder arrangements.
Hogan Lovells (United Arab Emirates) LLP
Hogan Lovells (United Arab Emirates) LLP has a full-service corporate offering, with the team advising on agency and distribution arrangements, regulatory issues, and compliance mandates. Imtiaz Shah leads the team from Dubai, with extensive experience acting on M&A transactions in the Middle East, particularly in the luxury retail space. Charles Fuller advises PE funds, financial institutions, corporations and sovereign wealth funds on a broad range of corporate transactions.
Practice head(s):
Imtiaz Shah
Other key lawyers:
Charles Fuller
Testimonials
‘The relationship driven approach of the practice and the culture that has been built around this philosophy make the team unique.’
‘A solution-oriented practice. The team always takes a problem-solving approach to legal matters rather than creating legal complexity.’
‘Imtiaz Shah stands out due to his deep understanding of both the commercial and legal aspects of M&A transactions and a thoroughly professional yet relationship driven approach towards his legal practice.’
Key clients
HRH Prince Alwaleed & Rotana Music
AS Group
Lockheed Martin
Caretech Plc
International Finance Corporation
ExxonMobil Corporation
Gulf Investment Corporation
Jabreen Capital
Brioni
Work highlights
- Advised HRH Prince Alwaleed’s Rotana Music in connection with the Warner Music Group’s agreement to buy a minority stake in the Rotana Music Group.
- Advised the AS Group on its acquisition of DMETCO-Bayti.
- Advised Kook Cloud Kitchen Company on their Series A funding round.
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP’s corporate offering primarily centres on the energy sector, advising clients on M&A transactions, commercial contracts, project financing and development, corporate restructuring, and regulatory and compliance matters. Managing partner Patricia Tiller leads the team from Dubai, specialising in commercial projects. David Pang has significant experience advising on cross-border M&A deals and private equity investments and Martin A. Skehill focuses on project finance, infrastructure development and government-related commercial work.
Practice head(s):
Patricia Tiller
Other key lawyers:
David Pang; Martin A. Skehill
Testimonials
‘Patricia Tiller is notable.’
‘Its reaction and service is good.’
Key clients
Emirates Global Aluminium PJSC
Petromal
Al-Waha Petroleum Company Limited
ENOC Link L.L.C.
Hoover Ferguson Group
Emirates National Oil Company LLC
Beema Insurance Services LLC
Endemaj Funds LLC
Everbridge Europe Limited
Disruptive Art Production LLC
Gerab National Enterprises
Middlesex University Law School
Work highlights
- Advising Petromal on various aspects of its joint venture with Israel’s Europe-Asia Pipeline Company, a joint venture entered into through a Petromal subsidiary known as MED-RED Land Bridge Ltd.
- Advised Emirates Global Aluminium PJSC in connection with ongoing commercial matters under some of the largest commodities sales agreements in the UAE.
- Advising Beema Insurance Services LLC on various corporate and commercial legal matters.
Ibrahim & Partners
Ibrahim & Partners advises on a wide variety of public and private M&A transactions, including those involving joint stock companies and UAE companies with international operations. Managing partner Ahmed Ibrahim co-leads the team from Dubai alongside Malack El Masry, who has extensive experience in the region advising on M&A deals, as well as a broad range of corporate, commercial, and structuring expertise.
Practice head(s):
Malack El Masry; Ahmed Ibrahim
Other key lawyers:
Mohamed Madi
Testimonials
‘Malack El Masry is knowledgeable not only about relevant local laws, but also about the local players involved, and takes a commercial approach.’
Key clients
Amanat Holdings PJSC
Dar Al Takaful
BH Mubasher PrJSC
Al Ramz Corporation PJSC
Dubai Holding Group LLC
Meraas
VPS Health Group
Wilo Middle East FZE
Work highlights
- Advised Dar Al Takaful PJSC on a merger transaction that is the first of its kind as the first merger in the insurance sector of the UAE. It is also the first merger across the two emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
- Advised Allianz Marine Logistics and Services Ltd on one of the largest merger and acquisition deals in the maritime offshore sector in the Middle East in recent years, with the acquisition of Allianz Marine by Shuaa PJSC through an acquisition finance by the National Bank of Fujairah.
- Advising Corys Environmental Investments on a joint venture with Cafu App DMCC (Dubai Branch).
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP has an active corporate and commercial practice, with a key focus on the defence and aviation, technology, healthcare, and energy and infrastructure sectors. Mark Gilligan leads the team from Abu Dhabi, with significant experience advising both private and institutional clients. Richard Knott specialises in transactional capital deployment and formation matters, whilst senior associate Joanna Maria El Khoury focuses on corporate mandates.
Practice head(s):
Mark Gilligan
Other key lawyers:
Richard Knott; Joanna Maria El Khoury
Testimonials
‘Richard Knott is a superstar quite frankly. Always keeps his eyes on the ball and is very approachable.’
Key clients
Fasset Holdings Limited
Mizuho Gulf Capital Partners Ltd.
Shuaa Capital
Trillium Flow Technologies
TVM Capital Healthcare Partners Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Trillium Flow Technologies, a global designer, manufacturer, and aftermarket services provider of engineered valves and pumps used in critical infrastructure, energy, and broader industrial applications, on the acquisition of Termomeccanica Pompe, an Italian-based global manufacturer and seller of industrial centrifugal pumps and supplier of related parts.
- Advised Shuaa Capital on the acquisition of a majority interest in Souqalmal.com, the Middle East fintech company focused on personal finance, wealth management and insurance businesses.
Shearman & Sterling LLP
Shearman & Sterling LLP is recognised for its expertise in the energy sector, specifically oil and gas. It handles a range of matters, including minority investments, acquisitions of controlling stakes or entire companies, and joint ventures, acting primarily for companies, financial institutions and governments. Andrew Steele has particular expertise in the financial services, energy, and natural resources sectors. Marwan Elaraby, Renad Younes, and Jade Chu recently departed the firm. Since publication, Kasia Lebiecki left the firm.
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Steele
Key clients
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
The Saudi Arabian Industrial Investments Company
NEOM Company
Chevron
Investcorp
The Dow Chemical Company
SUEZ, Itochu Corporation and Five Capital Fund I
Baker Hughes
Qatar Investment Authority
Mubadala
Mitsui & Co., Ltd
Ripplewood Advisors
Squire Patton Boggs
The corporate team at Squire Patton Boggs has broad expertise across a range of sectors, and is particularly experienced in handling cross-border M&A, joint ventures, privatisations, and restructurings. Matthew Powell heads the team, and is noted for his regional M&A market expertise.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Powell
Key clients
DP World
e&
LaPoste
Taiba Investments
Petro Rabigh
Saudi Arabian Industrial Investments
Ministry of Minerals and Industrial Resources, Saudi Arabia
Emirates Cable TV and Multimedia LLC
Octagon Dynamics General Trading Company LLC
Shard Capital
Work highlights
- Advising Emirates-based multinational telecommunications services provider Etisalat (now known as e&) on its proposed increase in its stake in Mobily, the Saudi Arabian telecommunications services company, by way of a partial tender offer. This is the first-ever proposed takeover under the KSA M&A regulations.
- Advised EVision on its acquisition and subscription, as part of a consortium with ADQ, to acquire 57% in Playco, the holding company for StarzPlay Arabia, the leading regional streaming and on demand television service provider.
- Advised Saudi Investment Recycling Company on its recently announced transaction with United Lube Oil Company to acquire 51% of Oil Collection For Waste Transfer Company Limited.
AMERELLER
AMERELLER advises international companies on a range of matters in the MENA region, including cross-border M&A with a focus on foreign inbound investments, joint ventures, and restructuring mandates. It has particular expertise in the automotive, manufacturing, and healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. The team is led by Jochen Murach, Christopher Gunson, Babak Namazi, and Jonathan Noble.
Practice head(s):
Jochen Murach; Christopher Gunson; Babak Namazi; Jonathan Noble
Other key lawyers:
Amer Jamoukha
Testimonials
‘Amereller is an international experienced law firm but with a focused and boutique feel to it. They take time to understand clients’ businesses and prioritise communication.’
‘Jochen Murach is an exceptional lawyer and a trusted advisor. He is experienced, pragmatic, and efficient.’
‘The firm’s focus on the Middle East is a unique selling point. The team combines its knowledge of how to serve European clients with its experience in dealing with parties and courts in the Middle East.’
‘The number and locations of the firm’s offices are equally impressive as is the network of contacts throughout the region with other lawyers and decision makers.’
‘Diverse team from different nationalities and backgrounds which helps to resolve regional matters with confidence. People are helpful and have strong analytical ability, they easily understand the business needs and look from different angles. Professional team.’
‘Strong understanding of clients’ businesses and needs, and providing risk-based assessments, make Jochen Murach different from his competitors.’
‘One of the aspects that makes them a valuable law service provider is the breadth and depth of experience that they have. This consistently results in creative and easy-to-implement solutions.’
‘Jonathan Noble is tremendously talented but is also wonderful to deal with. He possesses great creativity and a solutions-orientated way of working.’
Key clients
Kurita Water Industries Ltd.
Kurita Europe Gmbh
Kurita Middle East FZE
Marubeni Corporation
Klampfer Holding GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised Kurita Europe GmbH, part of Kurita Water Industries Group, on its joint venture with AquaChemie in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
- Represented Marubeni Corporation in the demobilization and decommissioning of the Taweelah A2 Power and Water Plant.
Anjarwalla Collins & Haidermota (AC&H)
Anjarwalla Collins & Haidermota (AC&H) has expertise in African and Southwest Asia cross-border corporate mandates, covering a full range of M&A transactions. Managing partner Atiq S. Anjarwalla leads the group and is particularly active in advising UAE clients investing in African markets. Adil Shafi is also noted for his expertise in corporate and securities transactions.
Practice head(s):
Atiq S. Anjarwalla
Other key lawyers:
Adil Shafi
Key clients
CPAS Management DWC-LLC
The Alliance Group, Africa
Minti Motorsport Limited
Betika Group
Atlas Group Limited
Skylines Group
Work highlights
- Acting for a privately owned group of companies that operates in the business and financial technology space across UAE and Pakistan, in connection with the acquisition of the entire shareholding of a hospitality technology company in the United Kingdom.
- Acting for a large pharmaceutical group with operations in South and Central Asia, Uzbekistan, and East Africa in connection with the redomiciliation of their holding company from Seychelles to Dubai, UAE.
- Acting for a privately owned group of companies, which operates in the business and financial technology space across the UAE and Pakistan, in connection with advising and assisting with its Series A fundraising exercise.
BonelliErede
Managing partner Marco De Leo heads BonelliErede’s Middle East offering and has particular expertise handling corporate and commercial transactions, including M&A and joint ventures, in the luxury sector. Beyond that, the practice also advises clients active in a range of other sectors, including energy, shipping, healthcare, and construction.
Practice head(s):
Marco De Leo
Key clients
International materials Inc.
Hitachi Rail STS S.p.A.
Luxottica Group
Essilor Luxottica Group
Work highlights
- Assisting Hitachi Rail STS S.p.A. in the management of the systems and integration contract for stage two of the UAE’s national railway network awarded by Etihad Rail.
- Advising International Material Inc. in connection with the activity of its branch in the UAE, including acting on the entire restructuring of operations and maintenance in the international material business.
- Assisting Luxottica Italy and Luxottica Middle East in connection with their day-to-date general corporate, commercial and contractual matters in the GCC.
Bracewell LLP
Bracewell LLP has particular expertise in joint venture and shareholder arrangements, commercial contracts, and corporate structuring mandates. It is particularly active in the defence, automotive, recruitment, manufacturing, and energy sectors. Christopher R. Williams leads the team and has extensive experience advising on corporate and M&A transactions across the Middle East. Kasia Lebiecki was a new arrival in September 2023.
Practice head(s):
Christopher R. Williams
Other key lawyers:
Amelia Bowring; Kasia Lebiecki
Testimonials
‘The ability to pull together a diverse team from different backgrounds and experiences, especially combining both KSA and UAE knowledge, is impressive.’
‘Their in-depth regional and commercial knowledge means clients can get a turnkey solution to GCC legal problems from professionals that bring together a wealth of experience from different countries, but with a local focus.’
‘Christopher Williams is an extraordinary partner that always has time to speak to clients and provide valuable advice that is always in the best interest of the client.’
‘Ameila Bowring is a fantastic associate. She’s been extremely helpful on a number of issues over the last year.’
Key clients
General Motors
Vertex Aerospace
TVG DWC LLC
Pilot Chemical
ChampionX
Dover Corporation
Khalid Yousuf Al Marzouq & Sons Group of Companies
Blu Stone Management
Alcazar Energy Partners
Amerapex Corporation
Allied Telesis
RP International
Cielo Talent
Cornerstone Partners
Brunswick Corporation
Dynatrace Middle East
Servita Consulting
United Service Organizations
Work highlights
- Advising General Motors on all commercial, corporate and employment mandates during the course of the past 12 months.
- Acting for KMGC with respect to its Venice subsidiary, which supports a number of international defence contractors regarding their operations in Kuwait.
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
The corporate and commercial team at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner handles a full range of matters across various sectors, though it is particularly active in the corporate real estate, technology and venture capital, defence and cyber-security sectors. David Nunn serves as the key contact, following the departure of Greg Nixon.
Practice head(s):
David Nunn
Testimonials
‘The quality of service and timeliness of execution is peerless.’
‘The level of responsiveness is very high, even outside of working days and hours.’
‘The corporate and commercial team at BCLP understand their client and in particular the issues facing in-house counsel. Their lawyers are friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.’
Key clients
Al Fardan Exchange
Binghatti Beverages Manufacturing LLC
Yokwe Technologies Group Limited
Kuwait Projects Company
Premier United Hospitality LLC
Dubai International Financial Centre Authority
Expo 2020 Authority
Novonix
Carpenter Technology
Empay
The Emirates Credit Information Company Limited
Masdar Green REIT (CEIC) Limited
Gregory & Jones Consulting Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for the Binghatti Group on the c.$60m sale of its UAE beverage production business to the Saudi publicly listed entity, Almarai.
- Advising Masdar Green REIT (CEIC) Limited in relation to the acquisition of seven separate income-generative real estate assets from Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company and associated debt financing relating to the same.
- Advising the Dubai International Financial Centre in relation to its corporate joint venture with a prominent UAE-based real estate developer for the development of ‘DIFC 2.0’, a mixed-use complex in a prime location in Dubai’s financial district.
BSA Ahmad Bin Hezeem & Associates LLP
BSA Ahmad Bin Hezeem & Associates LLP advises on a full range of corporate mandates, including purchases, spin-offs, and disposals of companies. It also handles M&A transactions, particularly relating to TMT, and it regularly acts alongside international counsel on cross-jurisdictional matters, offering local expertise. Jimmy Haoula, Rima Mrad, and Michael Kortbawi co-head the team.
Practice head(s):
Jimmy Haoula; Rima Mrad; Michael Kortbawi
Other key lawyers:
Nadim Bardawil; Lara Barbary; Mohammed Al Ahdal
Testimonials
‘The partners and associates are swift in their answers and are available to provide instant support.’
‘Rima Mrad is an excellent lawyer. She answers on the spot and provides innovative solutions. She has knowledge in a variety of business sectors and law specialties.’
‘The team is diverse and very knowledgeable. They are available at all times and responsive, and always have a pragmatic approach.’
Key clients
Meta (Facebook)
Delivery Hero/Talabat
Voltas Ltd
Halliburton Worldwide Limited
Valeo
Total Energies
Novo Cinemas
HCL Technologies
Cashew Payments
Kids First Group
Kalera AS
Philips
Acer
Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait
Weatherford International
RAK Ceramics
PWC
Work highlights
- Acted as DIFC counsel for UOG, a large shipping company, in the acquisition of a DIFC holding company, United Arab Chemical Carriers, which manages and owns a large fleet of ships and cargo vessels.
- Assisting Total Energies to facilitate their desired corporate structure, including advising them on all legal matters related to restructuring and providing a clear insight leading to the best decisions, exploring new deal options, and sustaining deal focus.
- Provided Meta with a legal analysis that breaks down the degree of risk posed to the Facebook platform for violations of advertising guidelines under applicable laws in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP
Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP has expertise in the logistics, infrastructure, TMT, financial services, and hospitality sectors. It advises on a range of corporate matters, including distressed M&A work. Practice head Jeremy Miocevic specialises in mid-cap private equity, M&A, and strategic corporate issues. Ibrahim Elsadig and Paul Bugingo provide cross-border know-how relating to the GCC region and Africa, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Jeremy Miocevic
Other key lawyers:
Ibrahim Elsadig; Paul Bugingo
Testimonials
‘Personal touch to the service.’
‘Ibrahim Elsadiq has always been a great guide in finding a legal solution with a commercial outlook.’
‘Longevity in the region of the partners has been key to maintaining an excellent working relationship.’
‘Jeremy Miocevic is a stand-out lawyer who can blend the law as written, with a practical application in local markets, across a wide variety of sectors.’
‘The team is very responsive and does everything to find a solution to all the cases. They approach each case not with standard solutions, but rather a tailored approach.’
‘The team always provides justified responses with clear explanations.’
‘Jeremy Miocevic and his team are knowledgeable and very familiar with the region’s laws.’
Key clients
Software AG
Al Mulla Capital Ltd
Sayacorp Capital Ltd
Daman Investments
Knauf RAK FZE
DHL
Gulf Commercial Corporation International
Binladin Contracting Group
Calatrava Middle East
Work highlights
- Advising on the port concession and joint venture between the State of Puntland and DP World for the management of a port in the State of Puntland.
- Advising on matters relating to the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund for Mozambique, which will be one of the largest funds in Africa.
- Advising on the restructuring of Knauf entities in the Gulf Region (UAE, KSA and Oman), and providing a streamlined corporate structure with tax efficiency.
Galadari, Advocates & Legal Consultants
Galadari, Advocates & Legal Consultants advises on the full lifecycle of commercial and corporate mandates across a variety of sectors, including banking and finance, insurance, and energy. The team is co-headed by Ziad Galadari, who has significant expertise in development projects across the Middle East, and Fadi Hassoun, who specialises in corporate finance and structuring matters. Ken Dixon left the firm.
Practice head(s):
Ziad Galadari; Fadi Hassoun
Other key lawyers:
Manish Narayan
Key clients
Hector VN Solution FZC
EVAI Ratings and Research DMCC
ATC Tires Pvt Ltd. India
Bhatia Brothers Group of Companies
Meraas
Energy Drilling
Government of Ajman
Dubai Properties Group
Tecom
Federal Customs Authority
Fujisoft
Action Group
PERMA-PIPE
Planet Pharmacy
Gulf Explosives
Umm al Quwain Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation
Government of Umm Al Quwain
Dubai Holding and subsidiaries
Nikai
Gulf Explosives
Shuaa Capital
Abu Dhabi financial Group
Unicredit SpA
Dubai Airports
Work highlights
- Advised the Government of Umm Al Quwain on the structuring of a transaction, issues pertaining to developmental rights on the land in question, and the negotiation of a project.
- Advised a European international online marketplace dealing with virtual assets on the different options available for setting up a crypto entity in one of the leading freezones in the UAE, ADGM and are currently guiding them in the process of regulatory approvals.
- Advised Action Group on the acquisition of the majority shareholding of a free zone establishment based in Hamriyah Free Zone carrying out oilfield equipment supply and maintenance services to Action Group.
Mayer Brown
Mayer Brown advises clients across a broad range of work, including cross-border transactions for clients moving into, out of, and within the Middle East. The group is co-headed by Tom Thraya and Jad Taha, both of whom have significant expertise in the Middle East acting for domestic and international clients on a range of corporate and commercial matters.
Practice head(s):
Tom Thraya; Jad Taha
Testimonials
‘High level of engagement and clarity of pricing.’
Key clients
Accenture
CNPC International
Danaher Corporation
Eastman Chemicals
Qatar Petroleum
Saudi Telecom
Lockheed Martin
Cruise Automation
First Abu Dhabi Bank
Commercial Bank of Dubai
Caterpillar
MAG Group FZ
Underwriters Laboratories
Caesars Entertainment
Jensen Hughes
Publicis Groupe
Lotus Motors
RJ O’Brien Capital Limited
Gemcorp Holdings Limited (UK)
Capri-Sun Beverages
Anchorage Investments
Allied Power
Paytabs
Deutsche Telekom
Baxter International
CIS
Triple Five Group (555)
Beckman Coulter
Ingram Printing Group
Woods Bagot
SinoEnergy Capital Holding Limited
Prince Saud Bin Majid Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Bin Butti International Holdings
Saudi Arabia Ministry of Communications & Information Technology
Mensheng Financial Leasing
Jana Capital
TAJ Group/Beside General Trading
Fendi SA
Cummins
IINN
Work highlights
- Representing Anchorage Investments in all legal aspects relating to developing its state-of-the-art Anchor Benitoite Project in Suez, Egypt.
- Advising on Cruise Automation’s strategic alliance with the government of Dubai (Roads and Transport Authority) to provide and operate a fleet of autonomous ride-hailing services in the Emirates.
- Representing Saudi Telecom (Bahrain) on a significant joint venture with Alcazar Capital for the development, construction and operation of a data centre in Bahrain.
PwC Legal Middle East
PwC Legal Middle East has a dedicated M&A and restructuring team that serves clients active in a broad range of sectors, though most notably in the retail, manufacturing, digital, financial services, and energy space.
Other key lawyers:
Gemma Kotak
Testimonials
‘The lawyers took a collaborative approach in what were quite complex transactions involving multiple jurisdictions.’
‘Their people are great to work with and they have an excellent office set up for hosting negotiations.’
‘Gemma Kotak is a highly organised and impressive junior lawyer.’
Key clients
Gymnation
Aramex
Oasis Capital and Investment LLC
Al Bwardy
Organic Food & Café
Al Futtaim
Clariba Solutions
PwC Middle East
Mapfre Asistencia Compañia Internacional De Seguros y Reaseguros, S.A.
Etive Consulting
Work highlights
- Advised the management team of Gymnation, the largest chain of gyms in the UAE, on the management buy-out of Gymnation.
- Advised the sellers of the Al Shirawi US Chillers Group, the largest independent global chiller and energy solutions provider in the Middle East, on the disposal of their shares in USCS to Dalkia, EDF.
- Advised the legal team of Albwardy Investment LLC on the restructuring of their corporate structure, with a focus on succession planning and optimising the business for future structuring deals.
Reed Smith
Reed Smith's corporate group is led by Adela Mues, who has significant transactional and regulatory expertise in the Middle East. The practice also has broad corporate expertise, covering matters relating to acquisitions, joint ventures and private equity investments, as well as fund formation, corporate restructuring, and the formation of regulated entities.
Practice head(s):
Adela Mues
Other key lawyers:
Sachin Kerur; Zahir Sabur
Testimonials
‘Very proactive and approachable team.’
‘Sachin Kerur and Zahir Sabur are fully aware of the laws in the jurisdiction.’
SCHLÜTER GRAF Legal Consultants
Boutique law firm SCHLÜTER GRAF Legal Consultants specialises in corporate and commercial matters, advising on a full spectrum of mandates, with particular expertise in the infrastructure, projects, and construction space. Andrés Ring, who has significant experience advising on joint ventures, M&A, and restructuring matters, jointly leads the team alongside Christoph Keimer.
Practice head(s):
Andres Ring; Christoph Keimer
Other key lawyers:
Mahmoud Shahawy; Usama Munir
Testimonials
‘Very client-focused team, with a wealth of knowledge and hands on approach. Very reasonable billing, great value for money.’
‘Andres Ring stands out with in-depth knowledge of the laws in the Middle East. He is well connected and able to deliver with his team on the spot.’
‘What makes Schlueter Graf’s practice unique is its people. The team at Schlueter Graf is diverse, and they intently listen to the client’s needs and provide tailor-made solutions.’
‘The team shows empathy to the client’s need and are also available on an urgent basis if required, which is highly commendable in this competitive market.’
‘The team and the lawyers at Schlueter Graf are well versed in their practice of law and are equipped with the skillset to provide tailor-made solutions on various aspects of corporate and commercial laws.’
‘Usama Munir has the ability to deliver quality work products in line with the practical and legal aspects efficiently.’
Key clients
Republic of Colombia
Power Mech Projects Limited
HOSPINORM PROJECTS GmbH
BASF FZE
Gulf Drug LLC
Unilever Gulf FZE
Schenker Middle East FZE
Baenninger Trading LLC
Beumer Group Middle East FZE
Puma Middle East FZ LLC
Work highlights
- Advising the Republic of Colombia on the planning and construction stage of its pavilion at the World Expo 2020 Dubai.
- Advising Unilever Gulf FZE on corporate and commercial laws in the Gulf region.
- Advising Power Mech Projects Limited on a project worth USD 15 million for erection, installation, testing, pre-commissioning & commissioning of two units at a 750MW power plant.
Stephenson Harwood
Stephenson Harwood handles a broad range of international inbound and outbound cross-border transactions, with expertise across a wide variety of sectors. Rania Tadros serves as managing partner, while practice co-leads Diwakar Agarwal and Sandeep Dhama have significant experience advising on M&A transactions and joint ventures in the region. Melissa Forbes-Miranda is the third co-head, with 15 years of experience in M&A, FDI and joint ventures, and the practice is also home to senior associate Toufic Safie who is particularly active in the finance, construction, shipping, technology and tourism sectors.
Practice head(s):
Sandeep Dhama; Melissa Forbes-Miranda; Diwakar Agarwal
Other key lawyers:
Toufic Safie; Rania Tadros
Testimonials
‘Sandeep Dhama has been a vital part of the formation of our company, diligent and aware of potential roadblocks. He is astute, calm and we are grateful for the leadership.’
Key clients
Al Dahra Group
Inspired Education
FENIX Networks
Knowcross Limited
Madison Pacific Trust Limited
S&P Global Platts
Lexim Trading DMCC
Work highlights
- Advising an Abu Dhabi quasi-governmental owned entity, on a transaction valued at AED6 billion, in respect of the sale of 50% of its stake in a group agriculture business to a sovereign wealth fund.
- Advised Madison Pacific Trust Limited, on the enforcement sale of a 51% stake in HG Storage International Limited to Tristar Transport (L.L.C.).
- Advising S&P Global Platts on its acquisition of two Middle Eastern flagship energy conferences (Middle East Petroleum & Gas Conference and the Fujairah Bunkering & Fuel Oil Forum) from Singapore-based Conference Connection.
Trowers & Hamlins LLP
Trowers & Hamlins LLP is particularly active in mid-market M&A work across a variety of sectors. Bill Jefferies leads the team from Dubai, and has extensive expertise advising on PE and M&A mandates, and Stephen Sullivan leads the corporate transactions team in Abu Dhabi. Also noted is Saleem Adam, who specialises in TMT-related commercial transactions.
Practice head(s):
Bill Jefferies
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Sullivan; Saleem Adam; Nick Green
Testimonials
‘Trowers & Hamlins keeps an eye on clients’ specific requirements, and remains in accordance with the applicable laws from the context setting and until the final advisory is issued.’
‘The team consists of high-quality professionals with a wide range of multiple subject matter experts, which is an astounding fact about the firm.’
‘The team have a good knowledge base, subject matter awareness, and their prompt responses helps clients’ to achieve goals efficiently.’
‘Trowers & Hamlins has ensured that advice is given from a perspective where the client can take a decision. They ensure that businesses who don’t understand the law or its implications very well are able to take decisions in the fast changing business landscape.’
‘They have been quick to acknowledge and give timelines which they adhere to. This gives visibility and understanding to businesses on how to set cadence for things related to these questions.’
‘Saleem Adam understands clients’ requirements from day one.’
Key clients
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
Al Waha Venture Capital Fund of Funds 1
Emirates Global Aluminium
Warba Bank KSCC
Addition L.P.
Watar Partners
Amodoria DMCC
Al Kifah Holding Company
SmartShift Logistics Solutions Private Limited
Waha Capital PJSC
Hyatt International
Waha Capital PJSC
Various G42 subsidiary entities
Athena Holding Limited
Work highlights
- Assisted Warba Bank KSCC in respect of a joint venture and inward investment project with Cortland LLC. The joint venture in this instance was structured as an English Limited Partnership.
- Advising Watar Partners International Limited (as investment manager) and WP PCC (as investment company) in relation to their asset management and investment activities.