Trowers & Hamlins LLP > Muscat, Oman > Firm Profile

Trowers & Hamlins LLP
AL JAWHARA BUILDING, AL MUNTAZAH STREET
SHATTI AL QURUM, PO BOX 2991, PC 112
MUSCAT
Oman

Oman > Banking and finance Tier 2

Salman Ahmed leads the banking and finance department at Trowers & Hamlins LLP, which handles a diverse array of transactional work encompassing conventional and Islamic finance, including Sukuk, high-value syndicated loan financing, and finance restructurings. Ahmed’s background in Islamic finance is augmented by Kuala Lumpur-based Elias Moubarak's experience in the Omani market, particularly in financing and debt capital market-related matters. Associate Debopam Dutta is a key member of the team, and is sought after for both convention and Islamic banking matters in the GCC.

Practice head(s):

Salman Ahmed

Other key lawyers:

Elias Mubarak; Debopam Dutta

Testimonials

‘Dedication and commitment to the getting the job done within the set timelines. Problem solving and getting all parties involved to resolve pending issues.’

‘The experience, attention to detail, and hands on approach is appreciated the most. Additionally, the commitment to meet deadlines and follow up with parties to resolve issues.’

Key clients

Aseem Infrastructure Private Limited

Deutsche Bank AG

Oman International Development & Investment Co. S.A.O.G

Bank Muscat SAOG

National Bank of Oman SAOG

Ahli Bank SAOG

Electricity Holding Company

Takaful Oman SAOG

Sohar International Bank SAOG (Sohar International)

Oman Development Fund Company SAOC

Bank Dhofar

Al Omaniya Financial Services

State Bank of India

Bank of Baroda

Canara Bank

ICICI Bank

Bahrain Development Bank

Meethaq Islamic Banking

Maisarah Islamic Banking

Gulf International Bank B.S.C.

Bank Nizwa

Alizz Islamic Bank

Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait

OQ

First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC

Arab Banking Corporation (B.S.C.)

Work highlights

  • Advising two syndicates of more than 10 international, regional and local banks in relation to the OMR108.8m and USD556.8m refinancing and consolidation of several facilities that has been made in favour of two NAMA group entities.
  • Advised Maisarah Islamic Banking and Bank Nizwa on their capacity as issue managers in relation to the Oman government’s sovereign OMR76.3m Sukuk issuance.
  • Advised Oman International Development and Investment Company S.A.O.G. on the issuance of OMR13.3m mandatory convertible bonds.

Oman > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2

Trowers & Hamlins LLP's corporate practice is praised by clients for its ‘creativity and innovation in structuring deals’, and leverages considerable experience in cross-border transactions, working with multinationals in regulatory matters, such as setting up a local presence, and capital markets, including Shariah-compliant equities. Benjamin O’Brien-McQueenie leads the team, and is noted by clients for his ‘great knowledge of cross-border transactions’, and operates additionally in corporate structurings, acquisitions, capital markets, and private equity. He is accompanied by Tom Reynolds's 15 years of experience in capital markets, joint ventures, and Shariah-related transactions. Associates Aida Al Jahdhami and Li Ying Teng both bring considerable experience in local Omani and GCC mandates, requiring expertise in intellectual property, corporate transactions, and corporate governance.

Practice head(s):

Benjamin O’Brien-McQueenie

Testimonials

‘Reliable team headed by Benjamin O’Brien-McQueenie that is responsive, delivers as required, and on time.’

‘Benjamin O’Brien-McQueenie is a stand-out partner and I would love to work with him again.’

‘Trowers and Hamlins stand out for their international presence as well as access to a network of other firms in other jurisdictions.’

‘We worked with Benjamin O’Brien-McQueenie. He was approachable and down-to-earth. He showed great knowledge of cross-border transactions and was well attuned to market practice as well as the legal issues.’

‘Demonstrating creativity and innovation in structuring deals is the hallmark of the T&H corporate M&A practice and gives them an edge over other firms. They also tailor services to meet the specific needs and goals, along with a commitment to exceptional client service, sets the firm apart in terms of client satisfaction and retention. The deals are partner led and they focus on quality.’

‘Benjamin O’Brien-Mcqueenie is a leading lawyer with strong domain knowledge in the M&A practice in the region. We have collaborated extensively on different transaction structures and sectors. Our experience with him has been good overall and bring a lot of partner attention to the transactions.’

Key clients

Asyad Group S.A.O.C

Oman Investment & Finance Co. S.A.O.G.

Oman International Development and Investment Cos. S.A.O.C.

Work highlights

  • Advised Asyad Group, a prominent logistics and transport company in Oman, which is owned by the sovereign wealth fund of Oman, on its acquisition of a majority stake in a global freight forwarding business headquartered in ADGM with subsidiaries in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, India, China, and United States of America.
  • Advised Ominvest, a holding company in Oman, on its proposed takeover of Ahli Bank, a publicly listed banking institution in Oman.
  • Advised National Bank of Oman on the launch of an open-ended global equity fund

Oman > Projects and energy Tier 2

Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s project, energy, and infrastructure department oversees a range of high-value and significant projects, particularly those pertaining to energy, industrial manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, and water sector facilities. The team is often retained in matters involving international lenders and fields expertise in cross-border and multi-jurisdictional work. Lauded for his ‘ deep understanding of the regulatory framework and the current market practices’ Thomas Wigley co-heads the team with Hasan Rahman; both are sought after for their considerable experience in the infrastructure, oil and gas, renewables, and petrochemicals sectors, among others, both locally and regionally. Jack Horsley and Yuen Phing Choo are also key members of the team, and Dubai-based Brad Sandford joined the team in June 2024, and holds notable experience in project financing matters.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Wigley; Hasan Rahman

Testimonials

‘From the multiple projects we awarded to T&H in various tendering sectors, T&H team demonstrated an excellent knowledge about vetting JV agreement, agreeing on PPP EPC projects T&C. They have a great knowledge and negotiation skills with the counterparts to conclude a mutually beneficial agreement.’

‘T&H have a diversified team from different disciplines with technical knowledge.’

‘I perceived T&H as a seasoned team of professionals with a proven track record in their respective fields. For example, Thomas Wigley is renowned for his great knowledge in drafting or reviewing Development agreements and complex Join Ventures Agreements.’

‘Very practical on fee arrangements and only deploys those lawyers necessary to meet the client’s expectations.’

‘Thomas Wigley has a deep understanding of the regulatory framework and the current market practices not only in-country but in the region.’

‘Trowers team, seemly works between Oman and Dubai using expertise from individuals to ensure all build up to the project at hand.’

‘Thomas Wigley, is highly experienced.’

‘They Have Thomas Wigley; he’s excellent. He knows the surrounding situations.’

Key clients

Petroleum Development Oman

Electricity and Water Authority of Bahrain

Mafraq Energy

Khair Inorganic Chemical Industries (InoChem), Saudi Arabia

Palestinian Electricity Transmission Company Limited

Sembcorp

ACWA Power

Minerals Development Oman

Oman Environmental Services Company

Galfar SAOG

NW Corporation

KA Petra, Sdn Bhd

OQ SAOC

Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, Oman

Al Hafa LLC

Jordan Oil Terminals Company

NAMA Holding

Work highlights

  • Advising OQ E&P on the Marsa LNG project, an LNG bunkering JV with Total.
  • Advising EWA on the Hidd IWP and Sitra IPP.
  • Advised be’ah on Phase 2 of the development of its Industrial Waste Treatment Plant at Sohar.

Oman > Dispute resolution Tier 3

Highlighted by clients for its ‘deep well of specialised expertise’, the dispute resolution practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP is highly active in commercial litigations and arbitrations arising within the energy, oil and gas, construction and financial sectors, among others, and is notably experienced in cross-border commercial arbitrations, and shareholder and employment disputes. The team is headed by Raya Al Harthy and Cheryl Cairns, who is a specialist in construction sector disputes. Matthew Showler frequently advises multinational companies, banks, and government bodies on a variety of high-profile disputes. New joiner Alyaqdhan Al Waily leverages both local and international knowledge, and is accompanied by Abdullah Al Barwani, who holds over 25 years of experience in dispute-related matters.

Practice head(s):

Raya Al Harthy; Cheryl Cairns; Matthew Showler

Testimonials

‘T&H stands out for its innovative client-focused approach, blending cutting-edge technology with a deep well of specialised expertise. The team excels in delivering tailored solutions with exceptional responsiveness, setting them apart from competitors. Noteworthy is their commitment to diversity and inclusion, alongside advanced, flexible billing practices that enhance client satisfaction and financial clarity.’

‘The individuals that we work with stand out for their exceptional expertise, innovative thinking, and client-focused approach. Notably, Cheryl Cairns brings strategic vision and groundbreaking solutions and along with Raya Al Harthy, offers meticulous attention to detail. Their collaborative spirit and dedication to client success set our team apart, ensuring we consistently exceed industry standards.’

‘Trowers & Hamlins have an extremely capable team offering a range of legal services in the Middle East. I have worked closely with the Construction Disputes team on a number of matters and have been impressed with the level of expertise and detailed knowledge of the legal systems in various jurisdictions.’

‘I have worked with Raya Al Harthy on several occasions; she is extremely knowledgeable about Sharia law and the dispute landscape in the Sultan of Oman.’

‘Cheryl Cairns is a very hardworking lawyer that brings a lot of experience to the table, and is well regarded in the local market.’

‘The team has deep knowledge of complex construction. The team is diverse and has different team players that can assist in the arbitration proceedings in different languages. i.e. Arabic and English.’

‘I worked with Raya Al Harthy Partner at Trowers & Hamlins dispute resolution department. She is knowledgeable, professional and has an excellent understanding of the construction sector in Oman. She has the advantage of handling cases in Arabic and English.’

‘Very good understanding of legal issues. Always available to respond to queries. Raya Al Harthy, senior associate, who handled the legal matter is an excellent lawyer with high skills and understanding of complex legal issues.’

Key clients

SMN Barka Power Holding Company SAOG

Bahwan Engineering Company LLC

Saud Bahwan Group

C.Steinweg Oman LLC

Salalah Port Services SAOG

Mustafa& Kamal Ashraf LLC

Muttrah Forts LLC

Barka Water and Power Company SAOG

Petroleum Development Oman

Oman Power and Water Company

Doroob Logistics

Hanwha Corporation

Oman Liquefied Natural Gas Company LLC

Work highlights

  • Acted for Barka Power and Power Company SAOG in 2 cases in the Oman Courts against the Oman Tax Authority, objecting against its decision to disallow the carryover of taxes incurred during a tax exemption period granted to it by a special royal decree which establishes it.
  • Defended Salalah Port Services against a OMR10m claim for damages brought by Oscar Middle East regarding the arrest of a vessel suspected of illegally transporting coal from Somalia into Oman.

United Arab Emirates > Infrastructure and projects (including project finance)

Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises on major energy projects across the GCC, with particular strength in power and water developments, as well as key infrastructure initiatives including ports and transport ventures. Thomas Wigley heads the team from Oman and is a sought after advisor to a variety of multinationals and public bodies. Co-head Hasan Rahman has extensive experience handling project development and commercial instructions. Brad Sandford joined from Ashurst in June 2024 and provides further project finance expertise.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Wigley; Hasan Rahman

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘I’ve worked with Brad Sandford, Partner, for a couple of years in infrastructure project finance such as railway sector. He has always given our team appropriate advices in a timely manner. He has shown us some possible options with precise, coherent and logical description and also given us his thoughts on which one to choose that has always helped our team to consider advantages and disadvantages of each option and make right decisions. His personality is exceptional too.’

‘Dubai team has great collaboration with the Muscat team.’

Key clients

Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

Petroleum Development Oman

Electricity and Water Authority of Bahrain

Mafraq Energy

Khair Inorganic Chemical Industries, Saudi Arabia

Palestinian Electricity Transmission Company Limited

Sembcorp

ACWA Power

Minerals Development Oman

Oman Environmental Services Company

Galfar SAOG

BEEAH Group

Work highlights

  • Advising ADNOC on its offshore project to increase oil production at the Lower Zakum offshore hydrocarbon concession.
  • Advising BEEAH Group on the development of the Jawaher Boston Medical District in Sharjah.
  • Advising the Electricity and Water Authority in Bahrain on the Hidd IWP and Sitra IPP.
Department Name Email Telephone
International Infrastructure and Real Estate Thomas Wigley
Islamic Finance Salman Ahmed
International Corporate Nick Watson
International Dispute Resolution and Litigation Raya Al Harthy
International Dispute Resolution and Litigation Abdullah Al Barwani
International Banking and Finance Debopam Dutta
International Infrastructure and Real Estate Reem Al Mahrizi
International Dispute Resolution and Litigation Mohammed Al Subhi
International Corporate Alyaqdhan Al Waily
International Corporate Ali Al Toki
International Dispute Resolution and Litigation Majid Al Toky
International Dispute Resolution and Litigation Dima Tayara
International Corporate Al Shaima AlHinai
Photo Name Position Profile
Raya Al Harthy photo Raya Al Harthy
Matthew Showler photo Matthew Showler
Thomas Wigley photo Thomas Wigley Tom is a Partner at Trowers & Hamlins and is the Resident…
Number of lawyers : 394
at this office : 13
Arabic
Bahasa Malaysia
English
French
Mandarin
AMCC
BMCC
Britcham Thailand
Britcham Indonesia
BBGV
EUMCCI
The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
MIARB
MOGSC
MICCI
MBS
MCIArb
Lighthouse Club
Al Moltaka
ociety of Construction Law
British Business Group
Australian Business Group
ICAEW - Corporate Finance Equity
Bahrain Irish Business Network
Bahrain Society
Arab British Chamber of Commerce
AHK
Other offices : Abu Dhabi
Other offices : Bahrain
Other offices : Dubai