Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's real estate team is lauded by clients for its ‘commercial acumen’, and is a source of expertise for matters pertaining to real estate financing, investments, leases, and regulatory matters. Paula Boast MBE and Reem Al Mahroos are key points of contact in the Manama office, the former leveraging considerable expertise in GCC real estate, infrastructure, and commercial development matters, and the latter boasting a strong track record in mixed-use developments, community infrastructure, and hospitality sector mandates. They are ably supported by Mazin Al Mardhi, who has expertise in advising clients across the insurance, construction, engineering, and hotel sectors on their diverse matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The CRS team stands out for its deep regional expertise, collaborative culture, and client-first mindset.'
  • ‘Paula Boast MBE from CRS is truly exceptional. Her deep expertise, proactive approach, and unwavering professionalism make her stand out not just within her firm, but across the industry.'
  • 'Potential clients will appreciate their responsiveness, commercial acumen, and ability to deliver practical solutions across complex matters.'
  • 'What I value most about Paula Boast MBE is her ability to combine technical precision with genuine collaboration—she’s not only a trusted advisor but also a pleasure to work with.'
  • 'Compared to other firms, CRS brings a unique blend of technical excellence and personal engagement.'
  • 'Their commitment to innovation—whether through flexible billing, diverse talent, or smart use of technology—makes them a forward-thinking and highly effective practice.’

Key clients

  • A.A. NASS Contracting Co. W.L.L.
  • Al Hafeera Contracting Company W.L.L
  • Al Sahel Resort B.S.C
  • Al Sorouh Management Company W.L.L
  • Amriya Group
  • Bahrain Marina Development Company
  • Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company
  • Bahrain Real Estate Investment Company (Edamah)
  • Bareeq AlRetaj Real Estate Services W.L.L.
  • Bilaj Al Jazayer W.L.L.
  • Cebarco Bahrain W.L.L.
  • Darari Investment Company W.L.L.

Work highlights

Advised Bahrain Marina Development Company on both its real estate and construction requirements in relation to a 300,000 sqm mixed-use master planned development known as “Bahrain Marina” with a gross development value of circa USD1bn comprising retail, residential, and hospitality components.
Advised The Collection of Experiences Hospitality on the development and establishment of internationally renowned restaurants in Bahrain through management and franchise structures.
Advised Eagle Hills International Properties LLC on a USD7bn real estate joint venture to be known as “Binaa Al Bahrain” to invest and develop strategic real estate projects within Bahrain.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

Paula Boast MBE; Reem Al Mahroos

Other key lawyers

Mazin Al Mardhi