Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants > Dubai, United Arab Emirates > Firm Profile
Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants Offices
AL GHUBAIBA STREET
PO BOX 7992
DUBAI
United Arab Emirates
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Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants > The Legal 500 Rankings
United Arab Emirates > Dispute resolution: local litigation Tier 2
Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants is particularly well-known for its representation in fraud and embezzlement cases as well as private client work, but is also active in work across a range of sectors. Ziad Galadari has a strong practice handling litigation arising from major infrastructure, real estate and construction projects; Ahmed Galadari‘s knowledge of the regional landscape ensures that he is sought out by stellar international clients; Abdulla Ziad Galadari‘s ‘combination of expertise, collaboration, client-centricity, innovation, and other exceptional qualities’ makes him ‘truly stand out’ in the market; and Fadi Hassoun is a key name for complex civil and criminal proceedings. Banking and finance disputes specialist Marwan Al Cherkah is also noted. Abdelhak Attallah was a new arrival from Alsuwaidi & Company in November 2022, as well as experienced litigator Hussein Al-Momani who joined from Primecase law Firm in November 2023Practice head(s):
Ziad Galadari; Ahmed Galadari; Abdulla Ziad Galadari; Fadi Hassoun
Other key lawyers:
Marwan Al Cherkeh; Abdelhak Attallah; Hussein Al-Momani
Testimonials
‘Abdullah Galadari has a unique blend of qualities that set him apart from other competitors. It is the combination of expertise, collaboration, client-centricity, innovation, and other exceptional qualities within that makes him truly stand out.’
‘Abdelhak Attallah is an amazing and capable lawyer. He is knowledgeable, a strategic thinker, responsive and available at all times to help his client. ’
‘Abdelhak Attallah’s knowledge and advise was on point.’
Key clients
MG Motors
Steel Kitchenware Manufacturer
Arab International Development Investment Company
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
MENA Region Based Foodstuff and Agro Trading Company
Work highlights
- Represented a high-net-worth individual in a complex international divorce settlement dispute, securing the release of a USD 540 million yacht and protecting assets totalling over USD 1 billion in DIFC Courts, Dubai Courts and the Joint Judicial Committee.
- Secured a victory in the UAE Cassation court, establishing a legal precedent and protecting a brand and business valued at USD 98 million, by successfully removing a wrongfully registered trademark in bad faith.
United Arab Emirates > Real estate Tier 3
The ‘very time efficient’ team at Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants is admired for its ‘excellent knowledge of various areas of law and high-quality advice'. Firm founder Ziad Galadari handles international and regional litigation and arbitration, notably disputes involving major infrastructure construction projects. Manish Narayan is focused on real estate development projects, real estate funds, and private equity funds, while Abdulla Ziad Galadari is noted for his contentious real estate capabilities.Practice head(s):
Ziad Galadari; Manish Narayan
Other key lawyers:
Abdulla Ziad Galadari; Bassem Pierre Daher; Sergejs Dilevka; Ahmed Ziad Galadari; Abdul Majeed Al Sweedy
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge of various areas of the law, high quality advice, and time efficiency.’
Key clients
Enevoria Investments FZC
BOFO Gulf
Dubai Pearl Investors
Tatiana and Dmitry Francus
TECOM
Shezad Jamal
Work highlights
- Advised an investment company on the acquisition of a property in Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah valued at AED100m.
- Represented a government entity on the front-end design of a transformative project.
United Arab Emirates > Shipping Tier 3
Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants is a ‘reputable firm’ for shipping matters in the UAE and covers a diverse range of maritime-related work, with cargo claims, international trade disputes, salvage and insurance-related matters considered key areas of expertise. Managing partner Ahmed Galadari jointly leads the practice and is a respected authority for shipping disputes, especially before the UAE's Arabic-language courts, while co-head Shani Salim brings over two decades of experience of cross-border contentious work.Practice head(s):
Ahmed Galadari; Shani Salim
Testimonials
‘GALC is one of the very good and reputable firms in the UAE. ’
Key clients
Genmarca Shipping
CNS Logistics
Etihad Engineering and Marine Services FZC
Interface Technical Inspection
Yacht International Co. LLC
MCL Shipping LLC
Master Field Consultancy/Tisa Shipping Inc.
ISS Palumbo Shipping LLC
Work highlights
- Represented a high net worth individual in a complex international divorce settlement dispute, securing the release of a USD 540 million yacht and protecting assets totalling over USD 1 billion in DIFC Courts, Dubai Courts and the Joint Judicial Committee.
- Represented a well-established logistics company in a challenging AED 1.5 billion fine for alleged unauthorised storage of excise goods, with the case pending before the Court of First Instance.
- Acting on behalf of the defendant guarantors in enforcing an English court judgement within UAE jurisdictions for a high-stakes ship finance and mortgage dispute valued at USD 87 million between US lenders and UAE shipowners.
United Arab Emirates > Construction Tier 4
The ‘exceptional local knowledge’ of Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants' construction law team gives it an edge in its construction arbitration offering. The practice is also a strong choice for contractors, employers, and sub-contractors on design and build, infrastructure, and PPP matters. With over a decade of contentious construction experience, Abdulla Ziad Galadari oversees the practice, while Hassan Tawakalna is particularly proficient in civil disputes.Practice head(s):
Abdulla Ziad Galadari
Other key lawyers:
Hassan Tawakalna; Ziad Galadari; Marwan Al Cherkeh; Sergejs Dilevka; Joe Khalaf; Abdul Majeed Al Sweedy; Hadeel Mohammed
Testimonials
‘Deep knowledge of local practice and UAE case law.’
‘Exceptional local knowledge.’
Key clients
DEPA Group
Frayland LLC
Reliance Owners Association Management Services LLC
Work highlights
- Represented DEPA group in a dispute against Ghantoot Transport and General Contracting LLC in a case involving interior design works.
- Represented Frayland LLC in a dispute claiming early payment for subcontract work and the recovery of a performance bond valued at AED12.5m.
United Arab Emirates > Intellectual property Tier 4
Led by Raka Roy who is well informed in data protection, Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants often handles brand asset safeguarding and trademark registration. Mahmood Al Mashhadani’s key strengths lie in criminal intellectual property litigation. Advocate Essa Ziad Galadari is also noted.Practice head(s):
Raka Roy
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Raka Roy is amazing, her knowledge is deep, and she is available 24/7.’
Key clients
A steel kitchenware manufacturer
A leading national oil company
A leading UAE insurance company
Work highlights
- Successfully represented a client in the UAE Cassation court by removing a wrongfully registered trademark in bad faith, setting a new standard in trademark law.
- Advised several small UAE-based businesses in response to a legal notice alleging trademark infringement.
- Represented a fast-food restaurant in a trademark infringement case, securing protection of a registered trademark menu item.
United Arab Emirates > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 5
An ‘extremely collaborative’ team that has ‘well-grounded and extremely informed partners’, Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants competently handles M&A, restructurings, insolvency and operational matters. The firm is well placed to act for regional and international investors and industry players as it operates in the freezones, mainland, and other regional locations and leverages key regulatory expertise from colleagues across the Middle East. Ziad Galadari has been a key point of contact for governmental institutions and public bodies for corporate and commercial work and Fadi Hassoun is a key name for asset management-related matters. Manish Narayan is also noted. Gerry Rogers and Paula Villegas Guevara left the firm.Practice head(s):
Ziad Galadari; Fadi Hassoun
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Fast to adopt to ever changing geo-political changes, hunger for opportunities to expand globally.’
‘The team is extremely collaborative and does not hesitate to involve other experts from the firm in case the issue is complicated. Well grounded and extremely informed partners go to great lengths to ensure that the client gets the required solutions and that too in a timely manner.’
‘Manish Narayan is extremely grounded and well versed in the theoretical and practical impacts of the legal provisions. He is aware of the regulatory changes and legal updates and provides clients with practical and easy to implement solutions. Definitely value for every penny spent on the advice.’
Key clients
Hero MotoCorp
Government of Umm Al Quwain
Capiter
Air India Limited
Fujisoft
Philanthropic Organisation
Hector Group
Genmarca Shipping
Bhatia Brothers Group of Companies
Jumbo Electronics Co. Ltd LLC
Work highlights
- Advised on a high value project, worth AED 3 billion, involving Musataha and option agreements and guiding the implementation and procurement of rights for a significant Independent Water Project in the Northern Emirates.
- Advised an Indian multinational motorcycle and scooter manufacturing company, valued at AED 27.5 billion, on its UAE market expansion.
United Arab Emirates > Dispute resolution: arbitration and international litigation
Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants > Firm Profile
Galadari has a deep-rooted legacy across the Emirates, given its establishment dates back to 1983, when founder and now Chairman, Ziad Galadari, commenced his journey into creating an effective legal impact within the country. As one of the first full-service law firms, the team focus on delivering an effective, efficient and exceptional client service, delivered through our diverse group of professionals.
Our qualified teams comprise of locally qualified Emirati and International lawyers, who have worked in advanced economies, supporting clients with a wide variety of legal challenges. Furthermore, our large team of advocates have rights of audience in all levels of UAE courts and tribunals. The team is led by Senior Partner, Abdulla Galadari, who has been recognised as the ‘leading individual’ (The Legal 500) for his outstanding contribution to the profession.
The firm offers its services across the Emirates, whilst having offices in Dubai, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi, from where we offer a broad spectrum of services which include contentious and non-contentious construction and real estate, energy and infrastructure projects, corporate, commercial, banking and finance transactions and disputes, regulatory and compliance, anti-bribery and white-collar crime.
We offer comprehensive legal services which include:
- Arbitration, litigation and dispute resolution
- Corporate and commercial
- Compliance and regulatory
- Intellectual property and data protection
- Insurance and reinsurance
- Healthcare and medical malpractice
- Employment
- Construction and infrastructure
- Real estate and property
- Banking and financial institution
- Maritime and transport
We have supported a diverse range of clients across sectors, of which some include:
- Government and government-owned entities
- Banks and financial institutes
- Real estate developers and investors
- Construction and engineering firms
- Family conglomerates
- Private clients
- Hospitals, clinics and pharmaceutical/life sciences companies
- Maritime and logistics companies
- Media and telecommunications providers
- Oil and gas, related services and renewable energy companies
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Chairman & Founder | Ziad Galadari | ||
Managing Partner | Ahmed Galadari | ||
Senior Partner | Abdulla Galadari | ||
Partner | Fadi Hassoun | ||
Partner | Bassem Daher | ||
Partner | Manish Narayan | ||
Partner | Raka Roy | ||
Partner | Shani Salim | ||
Partner | George Abou Jreich | ||
Partner | Charbel Fadel | ||
Senior Counsel | Stephen Ballantine | ||
Senior Counsel | Marwan Al Cherkeh | ||
Senior Counsel | Hassan Tawakalna | ||
Senior Counsel | Taha Ramadan | ||
Of Counsel | Daniel Brawn | ||
Senior Associate | Aeeda Ibrahim | ||
Senior Associate | Emad El Habbak | ||
Senior Associate | Mahmood Al Mashhadani | ||
Senior Associate | Mostafa Shehata | ||
Senior Advocate | Mohammed Abdul Rahman | ||
Senior Advocate | Rashed Al Sumaity |
Lawyer Profiles
Languages
Arabic Urdu Spanish Italian French Greek Afrikaans English Hindi and other regional languagesMemberships
Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts Chambers & PartnersDiversity/Community
Galadari has been a long-standing and contributing law firm across the Emirates, giving back to its community. Notably, we are one of only five law firms to have collaborated with the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs (GLAD), where we have created, developed and delivered a continuing professional legal development course (CPD).
In our ongoing effort to continue developing the skills of the wider business community, our clients and the future generation of the Emirates, we deliver regular CPD seminars, share insights and deliver sessions through our lawyers on subjects which include: Civil Law, Corporate and Commercial, Finance, Intellectual Property, Insurance, Employment, Construction, and Real Estate.
As part of our commitment to Emiratisation, the firm provides internships and training contracts for young Emirati law students and new graduates. This aids them in gaining valuable on-the-job experience by shadowing an experienced lawyer and fulfilling requirements to qualify with the Ministry of Justice and obtain a federal lawyers license. As a result of this effort over 30 Emirati lawyers have opened their own offices and now provide ongoing impact to the country.
As a socially responsible firm, we are proud to be members of the Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC), which is a unique independent forum that works towards promoting and creating green building policies and regulations throughout the UAE.
We are currently committed to providing 1,000 hours of pro bono service to the wider legal community through the Dubai Legal Affairs Department (DLAD) worth AED 1.8m, as well as free training seminars and presentations to clients as part of our value-added services. Furthermore, we were proud participants of the Goods Will Initiative campaign and were recognised by the Dubai courts.
Alongside this, we provide an environment which supports diversity and inclusion, ensuring that our active recruitment policies place no bias when attracting and retaining talent. Our firm currently offers a service in 16 different languages and is represented by professionals from around the world.
Client Testimonials
CLIENT: Mona Al Abdoli, VP Legal
COMPANY/FIRM: Dubai Airports
TESTIMONIAL: We have dealt with Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants for a number of years now and have always found them to be cooperative, attended to details and professional. The Firm supported our business (corporate matters) in number of Legal Projects and their input found to be helpful and to the point, we will surely be dealing with the Firm for our future projects.
CLIENT: Andrew Lindley, Interim CEO and CFO
COMPANY/FIRM: Action Hotels Company
TESTIMONIAL: Galadari Advocates and Legal Consultants have represented and advised us in several projects. We have found them to be highly competent, thorough and considerate. The key contact lawyers including Mr. Abdullah Ziad Galadari and staff stayed in close contact with us and are very approachable, friendly, respectful and tireless in their efforts and quality of advice. We are thankful that we selected the Galadari team to represent us and would highly recommend them.
CLIENT: Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chairman Executive Committee
COMPANY/FIRM: Dubai Real Estate Centre
TESTIMONIAL: I want to commend Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants on the excellent legal services provided by them in connection with the recent company formation of our three companies. Galadari has all the attributes I expect in a good law firm: knowledge, seasoned experience, professionalism, integrity, strategic thinking, enthusiasm and responsiveness. On a personal note, I very much enjoyed working with Abdulla Galadari on this. His dedication, concern and interest in the task and in me as a client were very much appreciated. In summary, Galadari has earned my most enthusiastic recommendation.
CLIENT: Kunal Chowdry, Chief Compliance Officer, MLRO and Head of Legal
COMPANY/FIRM: BOK International Bank
TESTIMONIAL: We have retained Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants to aid us in our day-to-day legal needs based on the firm’s great reputation, and they have gone above and beyond in their support and assistance to a point where they no longer feel like legal consultants but more like an integral part of our Bank.
CLIENT:
COMPANY/FIRM: Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company
TESTIMONIAL: Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants is part of our panel of lawyers. The litigation department at Galadari has been supporting us in a timely and professional manner while maintaining a friendly line of conduct. We always feel that every member of the team is available to provide us with all the help that we might require.
CLIENT: Humaid Rashid Al Shamsi, Secretary General, Executive Council
COMPANY/FIRM: Government of Umm Al Quwain
TESTIMONIAL: I have been dealing with Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants for the past 3-years and I am glad to work with dedicated personnel who provide thorough and detailed advices and consultancy. The communication with the lawyers is very fast, clear and on time. They are friendly and always trustworthy. I am always happy to deal with Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants, and I appreciate every single efforts made by their team.
Press Releases
Galadari Celebrates Dimitriy Mednikov’s Promotion to Senior Associate
12th June 2024 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants is thrilled to announce the well-deserved promotion of Dimitriy Mednikov, to the position of Senior Associate effective 12 June 2024.Economic Ambitions and Legal Norms: The Balance in UAE Citizenship Laws
17th April 2024 For many years, the Gulf region has thrived as a result of its ability to attract talent from abroad.Galadari’s Senior Associate Mahmood Shakir Quoted in Gulf News on UAE Cybercrime Law and Cyberbullying
4th April 2024Galadari's Senior Associate Mahmood Shakir was recently quoted in Gulf News magazine, providing crucial legal insight on cyberbullying and online harassment in the UAE.
Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants shares its expertise in Shipping Chapter
27th March 2024 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants proudly announces its participation in the Shipping Guide with Chambers and Partners Global Practice Guides.Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants Welcomes New Partner George Abou Jreich: Elevating Corporate Practice
7th March 2024 On 5 March 2024, Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants welcomed a new partner, George Abou Jreich, who will be instrumental in enhancing the firm's corporate practice.Galadari Boosts its Corporate Practice with the Addition of a New Partner
1st March 2024 Effective 1st of March, Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants will be boosting its corporate practice and expertise with the addition of a new partner, Charbel Fadel,Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants Shortlisted in Six Categories by AML Middle East Legal Awards 2024
27th February 2024 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants has been shortlisted in six categories by AML Middle East Legal Awards 2024.Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Launches its Advocacy Hub
20th February 2024 Earlier this month, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI) launched "Advocacy Hub" initiative by which it seeks engaging the private sector in the efforts of strengthening and booting the development of the state’s economy.Khaleej Times Spotlights Senior Counsel Stephen Ballantine’s Analysis of Mental Health Law
9th February 2024 Our Senior Counsel, Stephen Ballantine, has been quoted recently by Khaleej Times, sharing insightful commentary on the recently enacted Mental Health Law.Weaving Diversity: UAE’s Visionary Rule for Inclusive Corporate Culture
1st February 2024 The UAE has taken a significant step in promoting cultural inclusivity with the reinstatement of a demographic diversification rule for companies operating on the mainland.Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants Shortlisted in Nine Categories at the Thomson Reuters ALB Middle East Law Awards 2023
30th August 2023 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants has been shortlisted in 9 categories at the Thomson Reuters ALB Middle East Law Awards 2023. Our nominations include:Gernandt & Danielsson has advised Lyvia in its entry into a SEK 1.466 billion credit facilities agreement with Danske Bank and DNB
25th August 2023 Gernandt & Danielsson has advised Lyvia Group Holding AB ("Lyvia") in its entry into a SEK 1.466 billion credit facilities agreement under a club deal with Danske Bank and DNB as lenders which refinances outstanding bonds and credit facilities within the Lyvia Group.Galadari Advocates & Legal Shortlisted for Pro Bono Firm of the Year by the IFLR Middle East Awards 2023
25th August 2023 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants has been shortlisted in the Pro Bono Firm of the Year by IFLR Middle East Awards 2023.IP STARS by Managing IP Recognizes Raka Roy as a Notable Practitioner
3rd August 2023 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants are excited to announce Partner and Head of IP and Data Protection Raka Roy has been recognized in the newly released 2023 edition of IP Stars by Managing IP as a Notable Practitioner in the UAE.Penalties for Non-Compliance with Corporate Tax Law are Announced
3rd August 2023 The Ministry of Finance in the UAE has announced new administrative penalties for non-compliance with taxation regulations applicable to corporations and businesses.Printed to Perfection: Dubai Municipality Approves Construction License for 3D Printed Villa
21st July 2023 Dubai Municipality has issued the first construction license for a private-owned residence using 3D-print technology.WIPR Leaders Directory 2023 Recognises Raka Roy as a Global IP Leader
7th July 2023 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants are excited to announce that Partner and Head of IP and Data Protection Raka Roy has been recognized in the newly released 2023 edition of World Intellectual Property Review (WIPR) Leaders Directory as a Global IP Leader.Know Your Rights: A Roadmap to Rental Disputes in Dubai
5th July 2023 In Dubai, rental disputes between landlords and tenants are governed by specific regulations and laws. Some key points to consider include:The UAE plans to double its re-exports
27th April 2023 The UAE Cabinet has approved the national agenda for re-export development 2030, comprising of 24 initiatives and programs aimed at doubling re-exporting from the UAE over the next seven years.UAE issues Resolution for percentage of Emirati lawyers and legal consultants in foreign law firms and legal consultancy offices.
19th January 2023 Effective from 2 January 2023, Resolution No. 105 of 2022 in relation to percentage of Emirati lawyers and legal consultants in foreign law firm and legal consultancy offices.Dubai government launches the Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’.
19th January 2023 On 4 January 2023, the Dubai government launched the Dubai Economic Agenda (‘D33’) with a view to grow the economy of Dubai by 2033 and position itself in one of the topmost global cities in the world.Galadari Advocates and Legal Consultants promotion round continues with Corporate & Commercial lawyer Gerry Rogers nomination as Partner
13th July 2022 Galadari Advocates continues to strengthen its corporate & commercial practice with Gerry Rogers promoted to Partner in the firm’s DIFC office.Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants strengthens their offering and market position further with the promotion of Partner Raka Roy
28th March 2022 Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants (Galadari) is pleased to announce the promotion of Intellectual Property and Data Protection Lawyer Raka Roy to Partner, as part of the firm’s strategic plans to bolster our commercial offerings.Galadari Advocates & Legal Consultants appoints Matthew Donovan as Partner
20th March 2019Galadari Advocates& Legal Consultants, one of the leading integrated law firms in the region,announces the appointment of Matthew Donovan as a partner based in the firm’sheadquarters in Dubai.
And It Was the IP Strategy That Made My Business Plan Edgy!
20th March 2019For both Ariana and Asma it was critical that their respective business plans get accepted. While Araina was trying to win the investors for her start up, Asma wanted her much awaited promotion from the board of directors. While Ariana did crack the deal,sadly Asma didn’t.
Out with the Old, In With the New: Comparing DIFC and ADGM Arbitration Law
20th March 2019The UAE has implemented a major initiative to update its laws and procedures, by adopting best international practice to encourage foreign direct investment and trade more generally with the UAE. There was a new Companies Law in 2015, a Bankruptcy Law in 2016, tax laws in 2017, and a Federal Arbitration Law and Foreign Direct Investment Law in 2018. In addition to that, Federal law No. 18 of 2017 amended the Companies Law to allow the authorities to dis-apply the requirement for 51% local ownership of UAE companies. A clear message is being sent to the world that the UAE is open for business, there is a strong modern structure in place in a form which is familiar to the big international players and which will serve their business needs.
Are Security Cheques Still an Effective Form of Security in Dubai?
20th March 2019Cheques are the most commonly used commercial paper in the UAE not only because they are used as a method of payment, but also, because they are the only commercial paper secured by the provisions of the UAE’s Penal Code (the “Penal Code”)to enhance confidence in cheques as a form of payment. As a result, cheques have been used for decades in the local market as a form of security.
Arbitration in The UAE Under the New Arbitration Law
20th March 2019Arbitration practice and procedure has developed rapidly in the UAE, and the courts now take a far more pro-active role in supporting the arbitration process and enforcing arbitral awards. This movement can be seen progressively in Cassation Court judgments over the past ten years and is now recognised in Federal Law No. 6 of 2018 on Arbitration (the “new Arbitration Law”), which repealed and replaced the old arbitration law in Articles 203 to 218 of Federal Law No. 11 of 1992. The old law did not reflect international best practice and left too much scope for the award debtor to avoid making payment