Latham & Watkins LLC > Riyadh, Saudi Arabia > Firm Profile

Latham & Watkins LLC > The Legal 500 Rankings

Saudi Arabia > Banking and finance Tier 1

Latham & Watkins LLC ’s ‘solution-driven’ Banking and Financing Team is esteemed for its ability to advise on bank and borrower side mandates for all types of financing. The team’s deep market knowledge and prowess have made it the counsel of choice for central government funds, and national and international banks, including the Ministry of Finance and Saudi National Bank. The team is led by Peter Norris , a key financial adviser to the government. Norris is supported by the Riyadh managing partner Salman Al-Sudairi, who has extensive experience in advising international clients on complex banking and restructuring mandates.

Saudi Arabia > Capital markets Tier 1

Latham & Watkins LLC’s practice covers ECM and DCM transactions and is distinguished for its advisory role in some of the largest and most innovative IPO offerings in Saudi Arabia. The team recently acted as underwriter’s counsel on MBC Group’s IPO offering – the first media IPO on the Saudi Stock exchange. The practice also stands out for their regulatory expertise and advice on rights issues. The team is led by Salman Al-Sudairi who acts on major IPO transactions with expertise spanning both ECM and DCM. Meanwhile, Najla Al-Gadi strengthens the team's ECM offering, bringing extensive experience in IPOs and other securities offerings.

Saudi Arabia > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1

Providing ‘international quality whilst maintaining very strong local knowledge‘, Latham & Watkins LLC acts for a strong roster of corporates across multiple sectors on M&A, private equity, and joint venture deals. The firm also works closely with ministries and government-backed entities on transformative initiatives and projects in the Kingdom, including advising on the ever-evolving regulatory landscape. Team head Ahmed el-Gaili handles a steady stream of sophisticated domestic and international M&A, with notable experience in the energy and projects space. Salman Al-Sudairi‘s far reaching expertise spans M&A, carve outs, joint ventures, and market entry instructions. Ahmed El Banna also comes recommended. Leen Zaza joined from Khoshaim & Associates in August 2024.

Saudi Arabia > Projects and energy Tier 2

With a strong international presence and an expanding footprint in Riyadh, Latham & Watkins LLC is well-positioned to advise on both domestic and cross-border transactions, across sectors such as energy, transport, construction, and digital infrastructure. The team is sought after by major clients to advise on foreign investments, joint ventures, and privatisation matters. The team is co-led by Derek McKinley, a specialist in project acquisitions, privatisation, and operations; Marc Makary, who brings extensive experience in guiding clients through project financing and development ventures; and the ‘exceptional’ Harj Rai.

Saudi Arabia > Real estate and construction Tier 3

Commended as ‘extremely knowledgeable,’ Latham & Watkins LLC’s key strengths lie in real estate acquisitions, construction, developments, and leasing. Derek McKinley co-leads the team and is often engaged in hospitality, infrastructure, petrochemical, and transportation matters. Marc Makary is well-versed in international project financing, and often advises financial institutions and public sector entities on real estate developments.