Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO) > Muscat, Oman > Firm Profile

Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO)
SASLO Building No.597/1, Way No.262
Airport Heights, Behind Oman LNG, Ghala
P.O. Box 1288, Ruwi, PC 112, Sultanate of Oman
Oman

Oman > Banking and finance Tier 1

Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO)‘s banking and finance team acts in a number of high-value mandates in the local market, including the recent HSBC Oman merger with Sohar International Bank. The team holds notable expertise in transactional matters, equity and debt capital markets, project financing in the power, oil and gas, and real estate sectors, and share and asset sales to banks, among others. The team is jointly led by its senior partners, including Thamer Al Shahry, an expert in capital markets who is noted by clients for his ‘invaluable guidance’. Head of corporate work Jeremy Pooley is often active in the team’s transaction-heavy matters. Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou is an increasingly key member of the team, and extensively works on complex, multi-jurisdictional matters. Sherif Hampton is a key port of call for complex Islamic finance matters, especially in regional GCC jurisdictions.

Practice head(s):

Thamer Al-Shahry; Jeremy Pooley; Sherif Hampton; Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou

Testimonials

‘A key strength of the team lies in its ability to handle complex legal issues – they are able to tackle challenges from various angles and offer creative and effective solutions. The team is also diverse and has a deep legal expertise.’

‘The responsiveness that Thamer Al-Shahry gives in relation to an engagement makes the Bank feels supported and valued throughout the process. He provides honest assessments of potential risks and outcomes especially for any Oman related inquiries (ministries, notary public, other government related bodies) and offers invaluable guidance throughout the engagement.’

‘Sherif Hampton has a deep understanding of the subject matter combined with a proactive approach to addressing client needs.’

‘Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou’s proactive approach to problem-solving has contributed positively to our overall success.’

‘They are not just legal advisors but also trusted partners who take the time to fully grasp the business and its challenges.’

Key clients

Sohar International Bank SAOG

Financial Services Authority

Ahlibank SAOG

Bank Muscat SAOG

China Energy Engineering Group Shanxi Electric Power Engineering Co. Ltd

CNECC International Engineering Co., Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised Sohar International Bank SAOG on its merger with HSBC Bank Oman SAOG.
  • Acted as sole legal counsel to Ahlibank SAOG in relation to the following high-profile series of public M&A transactions: in relation to an unsolicited merger offer from Bank Dhofar; in relation to an unsolicited takeover offer from a consortium led by Ominvest and Arab Bank plc; and in relation to an unsolicited competing takeover offer from Bank Dhofar.
  • Acted as sole legal counsel to Al-Imam Jabir Bin Zayed Foundation in the successful establishment and initial public offering of the Gheras Endowment Fund.

Oman > Shipping Tier 1

The shipping and maritime practice at Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO) is a frequent representative for Omani clients in logistics, shipping, and maritime insurance matters, and fields considerable expertise in contentious matters in multi-jurisdictional claims involving maritime accidents, debt claims, and various other civil and criminal matters. The team is co-led by its senior partners, including Thamer Al Shahry, who holds almost 15 years of experience in maritime matters, especially disputes, and Khalid El Wazir, who is highly sought after for his maritime law expertise, including for both contentious and non-contentious queries. Tarek El Hassan lends his Omani litigation expertise in maritime-related matters, particularly civil claims.

Practice head(s):

Said Al Shahry; Thamer al Shahry; Khalid Al Wazir; Tarek El Hassan

Key clients

Aramex International LLC

Oman Drydock Company SAOC

Oman Global Logistics Group SAOC

Oman Charter Company SAOC

Oman International Container Terminal LLC

Oman Shipping Company SAOC

Oman Ship Management Company SAOC

Port of Duqm Company SAOC

Prime Tankers LLC

PSA Maritime (Pte) Ltd

Sweedish P&I Club

The Britannia Stemship Insurance Association Limited

Work highlights

  • Represented a logistics company (claimant) in an ad-hoc arbitration proceeding involving a dispute that has arisen from a facilities management contract.

Oman > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2

Praised by clients for its ‘substantive, tailored advice that directly addresses the specific issues faced by clients’, the corporate team at Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO) acts in a diverse range of industries, including technology, insurance, and finance, and demonstrates notable experience in mandates involving IPOs, listings, joint venture agreements, and capital market transactions. The team is co-headed by its senior partners, including international corporate specialist Jeremy Pooley, capital markets expert Thamer Al-ShahrySherif Hampton, a specialist in Islamic finance-related matters, and Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou, who has a proven track record in cross-border transactional matters.

Practice head(s):

Thamer Al Shahry; Jeremy Pooley; Sherif Hampton; Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou

Testimonials

‘My experience with the Commercial, Corporate, and M&A team at Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO) has been very positive. The team stands out for its responsiveness, punctuality, and ability to provide substantive, tailored advice that directly addresses the specific issues faced by clients. Their attention to detail and commitment to understanding the client’s unique circumstances set them apart from other firms.’

‘Potential clients would appreciate the team’s deep expertise across various sectors, which is complemented by their practical approach to complex legal matters. The team’s strength lies in its ability to deliver clear, actionable guidance in a timely manner, which is crucial in high-stakes transactions.’

‘Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou was exceptional throughout our collaboration. She was hands-on, highly reachable at all times, and easy to communicate with, making complex matters much simpler to navigate. Her commitment to the work was evident, as she consistently delivered high-quality output on time.’

‘Well versed in commercial law and real estate. Special thanks to Jeremy Pooley and Thamer Al Shahry.’

‘SASLO is local law firm with a distinguished reputation due to its exceptional quality of partners, particularly Thamer Al Shahri, who is highly regarded for his comprehensive approach to legal advisory.’

‘Thamer Al Shahri provides 360-degree advice, considering all relevant perspectives, which is invaluable for complex projects such as mergers and acquisitions. His ability to highlight key risks and provide strategic guidance ensures that clients are well-prepared to navigate potential challenges.’

‘The standout individuals at this firm have significantly contributed to its reputation for excellence in legal services.’

‘Mr. Thamer Al Shahri is known for his trusted counsel and comprehensive approach. His insights into legal matters are both strategic and practical. His dedication to providing relevant advice tailored to client needs is particularly valued.’

Key clients

Sohar International Bank SAOG

Financial Services Authority

Ahlibank SAOG

Oman ICT Group

Oman Investment Authority

Petroleum Development Oman

OQ SAOC

Omani Qatari Telecommunications Company SAOG

The Pearl REIF

Oman-India Fertiliser Company

Mazoon Electricity Group

Bank Muscat SAOG

Ministry of Finance

Kent

Mazoon Dairy Company SAOC

Nissan Motors

Oman Investment and Finance Co SAOG

Al-Imam Jabir Bin Zayed Foundation

Qurayyat Desalination SAOC

Work highlights

  • Advised Sohar International Bank SAOG on its merger with HSBC Bank Oman SAOG.
  • Acted as sole legal counsel to Ahlibank SAOG in relation to the following high-profile series of public M&A transactions: in relation to an unsolicited merger offer from Bank Dhofar; in relation to an unsolicited takeover offer from a consortium led by Ominvest and Arab Bank plc; and in relation to an unsolicited competing takeover offer from Bank Dhofar.
  • Acted as sole legal counsel to Al-Imam Jabir Bin Zayed Foundation on the successful establishment and initial public offering of the Gheras Endowment Fund.

Oman > Dispute resolution Tier 2

Recommended by clients for its ‘proactive and solutions oriented’ approach, the disputes resolution department at Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO) is a frequent port of call for local Omani and regional GCC clients, notably various public entities and government ministries, and is highly active in the energy, infrastructure, and oil and gas industries. Said Al-Shahry co-heads the team alongside Thamer Al Shahry, and both of whom are noted as ‘extremely knowledgeable on the local legal market’. Khaled Al Wazir offers over 25 years of practice experience, especially in the real estate and construction sector, while Tarek El Hassan acts in various high-value disputes pertaining to employment, contracts, and insurance.

Practice head(s):

Said Al Shahry; Thamer Al Shahry; Khalid Al Wazir; Tarek El Hassan

Other key lawyers:

Abdulrahman Elnafie; Ahmed Bouhani; Adam Hassan Malik

Testimonials

‘Collaboration is a strength, the team working in SASLO are very cooperative as well as close to the client regarding advice and feedback for best next action.’

‘Mr Khalid Al Wazir is an outstanding figure in the firm.’

‘The team is very responsive with a sound understanding of the laws of Oman. Proactive and solutions oriented and provide precise well drafted advice. Fee proposals are reasonable and they have the ability to turnaround with limited heads up.’

‘Adam Hassan Malik and Thamer Al Shahry are very responsive and technically sound. They seem to have an extensive knowledge of the Omani legal landscape.’

‘SASLO is the largest local law firm in the Sultanate. They bring together vast local knowledge and expertise together with internationally experienced legal professionals who provide a unique blend of skills and experience.’

‘Thamer Al Shahry is a very astute legal mind and strategist. Extremely knowledgeable on the local legal market and various dispute resolution methodologies.  Adam Hassan Malik is extremely knowledgeable in Arbitral proceedings providing excellent advice and tactical approach to complex issues.’

‘The team is fully confident about their works and well committed.’

‘They are trustworthy and act promptly.’

Key clients

Ahli Bank SAOG

Nama Group

Petroleum Development Oman

ASYAD Group

OQ SAOC

Oman Oil Marketing Company SAOG

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology Co., Ltd.

Ooredoo Oman

Work highlights

  • Represented a construction company in an ICC arbitration seated in Muscat under Omani law, against a government ministry for claims of prolongation, disruption, and other associated costs arising from delays in the construction of Muscat International Airport.
  • Represented Zoomlion Heavy Industry SPC, a subsidiary of Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., LTD, a Chinese company that produces and markets construction and agricultural machinery, in several civil and criminal cases against several different buyers in Oman.
  • Represented a government-owned utility company in an OAC arbitration seated in Muscat in a dispute with a contractor arising from the expulsion of the contractor by the utility company.

Oman > Projects and energy Tier 2

Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO)‘s projects team is noted for its ‘excellent local knowledge’, advising clients on real estate, desalination, mining, and energy projects in various local and international matters. Thamer Al-Shahry and  Jeremy Pooley are noted for offering ‘quality advice’, along with Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou, who is highlighted for her ‘helpful and commercial advice’. Sherif Hampton is a key operator in the team for project financing matters, including Islamic financing and PPP projects.

Practice head(s):

Thamer Al-Shahry; Jeremy Pooley; Sherif Hampton; Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou

Testimonials

‘We have been working with Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou and she has been a great support. She is prompt in responding and provides helpful and commercial advice.’

‘Very supportive and experienced team that are able to provide expert advice around the clock.’

‘Experts. A standout is Thamer Al Shahry who’s has always been dedicated in providing us with quality advice.’

‘They have excellent local knowledge.’

‘They are very nice people to deal with.’

Key clients

Omani Qatari Telecommunication Company SAOG

Qurayyat Desalination SAOC

Work highlights

  • Advised Qurayyat Desalination SAOC on its acquisition by IV3 Aqua Group.
  • Acted as sole legal counsel to Ooredoo on the sale of its passive infrastructure division in Oman.
  • Advised the Government on a landmark PPP project for the development of a mixed-use real estate project in Muscat.

Oman > Real estate and construction Tier 2

A key port of call for government ministries and real estate and construction firms, Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO), handles a range of contentious and transactional work. The team is retained to advise on the development of PPP mixed-use complexes, joint ventures, and the construction of education facilities, and is also adept at representing clients in construction arbitration proceedings. Firm founder Said Al-Shahry co-heads the team with senior partners Thamer Al Shahry, a specialist in real estate and construction advisory matters, and Khaled Al Wazir, who holds over 25 years of experience in real estate-related matters, including contract, regulatory issues, and disputes. Adam Hassan Malik and Maria Mariam Rabea Petrou are also notable members of the team.

Practice head(s):

Said Al Shahry; Thamer Al Shahry; Khalid Al Wazir; Adam Hassan Malik; Maria Petrou

Testimonials

‘The team is very responsive with a sound understanding of the laws of Oman. Proactive and solutions oriented and provide precise, well drafted advice. Fee proposals are reasonable and they have the ability to turnaround with limited heads up.’

‘Adam Hassan Malik and Thamer Al Shahry are very responsive and technically sound. They seem to have a extensive knowledge of the Omani legal landscape.’

‘SASLO is a long-established law firm in Oman with expertise in most areas of law, and experience working on some of the biggest projects in the country.’

‘Thamer Al Shahry strives to maintain a good relationship with his clients.’

Key clients

Oman Tourism Development Company

Muscat University

Nama Water Services

Shapoorji Pallonji Mideast

Strabag Oman LLC

ASYAD Group

OQGN

Work highlights

  • Advised the Government on a landmark PPP project for the development of a mixed-use real estate project in Muscat.
  • Representing a leading construction company in an ICC arbitration seated in Muscat under Omani law against a Government ministry for claims of prolongation, disruption, and other associated costs related to the delay in the construction of Muscat International Airport.
  • Representing an international school based in Oman in an arbitration under Omani law against a contractor for claims of prolongation and disruption costs related to the construction of a new campus.

Said Al-Shahry & Partners (SASLO) is a leading Omani full-service law firm, which has provided expert legal services to its domestic and international clients for almost three decades. Today we have three fully operational offices in each of the Sultanate’s major civil and industrial hubs: Muscat, Sohar and Salalah. We operate seamlessly across this network of offices, enabling our 31 experienced and qualified lawyers to service our clients with specialist, local knowledge and around the clock support.

SASLO has advised on some of the most complex financing and infrastructure projects in the Sultanate and has been involved in significant litigation and arbitration in Oman setting precedents with the Supreme Court.

SASLO has reputation for providing practical and commercial advice in the context of Omani regulatory and legal requirements.

SASLO has a good working relationship with all the Government ministries and decision makers within Oman whose remit affects the business of both local and international clients. In addition to this, SASLO has regularly acted as advisers to Government to the regulatory development of the business environment.

Having its head office in Muscat and branches in Sohar and Salalah, SASLO is capable to respond rapidly to the legal needs of its clients anywhere in the Sultanate of Oman.

Department Name Email Telephone
Projects Thamer Al-Shahry [email protected] +968 24636999
Arbitration & Mediation Said Al-Shahry [email protected] +968 24636999
Corporate / M&A Jeremy Pooley [email protected] +968 24636999
Banking & Finance Sherif Hampton [email protected] +968 24636999
Litigation Tarek El Hassan [email protected] +968 24636999
Senior Management Malcolm Dickinson [email protected] +968 24636999
Corporate Commercial Maria Petrou [email protected] +968 24636999
Photo Name Position Profile
Thamer Al-Shahry photo Mr Thamer Al-Shahry Partner / Head of Disputes
Said Al-Shahry photo Mr Said Al-Shahry Managing Partner
Tarek El Hassan photo Mr Tarek El Hassan Special Counsel
Sherif Hampton photo Mr Sherif Hampton Special Counsel
Photo Name Position Profile
Malcolm Dickinson photo Mr Malcolm Dickinson CEO
Jeremy Pooley photo Mr Jeremy Pooley Head of Corporate
Full-time lawyers : 31
Total number of staff including paralegal and other support : 65
Arabic
English
All main business languages
and a variety of Indian regional languages
The firm's lawyers are fluent in languages spoken across Europe
Urdu/Hindi
AIA (Association for International Arbitration)
Charter Institute of Arbitrators CIArb
IBA (International Bar Association)
A well-established international network of foreign associates
ABA (American Bar Association)
Association of Petroleum Negotiators
Islamic Finance (IsFin)
Employment Law Alliance (ELA)

Said Al-Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO)

Said Al-Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO) is a distinguished full-service law firm based in Muscat, Oman.

Established in 1992 by Said Al Shahry, the firm has grown to become a globally recognized Omani law firm with a reputation for providing practical and commercial legal advice while adhering to Omani regulatory and legal requirements. With over 33 years of experience, SASLO has played a significant role in advising on complex financing and infrastructure projects, as well as in litigation and arbitration, setting legal precedents with the Supreme Court of Oman.

The firm maintains professional relationships with all government ministries and decision-makers in Oman, which allows them to assist clients with their business needs in accordance with relevant regulations and laws. SASLO has also been instrumental in advising on regulatory development for the business environment in Oman. The firm has offices in Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah, positioning them well to respond to clients’ legal needs across the country.

SASLO’s main practice areas include corporate and commercial law, PPP/projects, capital markets, Islamic finance, banking and finance, intellectual property, employment, construction, hospitality and leisure, real estate, tax, dispute resolution, litigation, and international arbitration. The firm represents a diverse range of clients, including the Government of Oman, government-owned companies, local and international corporations, and institutions. SASLO specializes in providing advice on capital market transactions, bonds, private equity transactions, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and offers guidance on securities laws, corporate governance, compliance, anti-money laundering, bribery and corruption laws, and other regulatory issues.

The firm is a market leader in equity capital markets (ECM), debt capital markets (DCM), and investment funds. Recently, SASLO advised on high-profile rights issues and acted on the establishment of Oman’s first Shari’a compliant FSA-registered open-ended endowment funds. The firm is active in public and private M&A and joint ventures, participating in several notable transactions across various sectors such as banking, insurance, retail, food, industrials, IT, and energy.

SASLO is very active in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects, advising on most Independent Power Project (IPP) and Independent Water Project (IWP) initiatives for both sponsors and lenders. The firm has also been instrumental in guiding major PPP projects under the Ministry of Finance’s PPP framework, showcasing their expertise and leadership in this area.

SASLO’s team of experienced lawyers is well-versed in Oman’s legal and regulatory landscape and has a proven track record of providing innovative solutions to complex legal issues. The firm is committed to in-country value, which has driven an increase in demand for its services from Omani government-owned and blue-chip companies and banks. The firm’s dedication to legal excellence and active engagement in complex legal matters has earned them numerous accolades and recognitions from reputable legal directories and publications such as Chambers and Partners, Legal 500, IFLR1000, Islamic Finance News, and LexisNexis.

In summary, Said Al-Al Shahry & Partners (SASLO) is a leading Omani law firm with a comprehensive suite of services, a diverse client base, and a strong commitment to providing top-quality legal counsel. Their extensive experience, professional relationships, and innovative approach make them a trusted advisor in the Omani legal market.