Abou Jaoude & Associates Law Firm's well-regarded corporate practice acts for international companies, banks, government agencies and investors in cross-border M&A, joint ventures and restructuring matters. The practice is co-led by a quartet of very experienced lawyers: Carlos Abou Jaoude, who has expertise in private equity, media and telecoms matters; Souraya Machnouk, who excels in handling cross-border transactions for clients in the food and beverage, luxury goods and energy sectors; Simon El Kai, who is a key contact for pharmaceutical companies; and Ibrahim Barraj, who is adept at advising on corporate reorganisations.
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Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The firm distinguishes itself further through its commitment to innovation. The team leverages cutting-edge research tools and adopts collaborative workflows across practice areas.'
- 'Abou Jaoude & Associates is distinguished by its exceptional legal expertise, pragmatic approach, and unwavering commitment to client service. Combining deep knowledge of the local market with regional and international perspective, the team delivers solutions that are not only technically robust but also commercially practical and efficient.'
- 'Their corporate practice is distinguished by the ability to service clients on cross-border matters, relying on the international experience of the key partners. The team’s ability to handle complex multi-jurisdictional acquisitions is unparalleled in Lebanon.'
- 'The team is composed of true corporate law specialists with in-depth knowledge of the legal issues facing companies. They offer clear and actionable guidance. They advise on all aspects of the transaction, from structuring to tax, and are able to rely on a network of top legal professionals in several countries.'
- 'The key partners are true specialists in corporate and finance law, with extensive experience that enables them to anticipate the legal challenges our group may face. Their ability to deliver seamless, end-to-end legal support on cross-border mandates is unmatched in Lebanon, thanks to their strong partnerships with top-tier law firms across multiple jurisdictions. Their ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters is one of the main reasons I use the firm. We greatly value the depth of expertise they bring to our big projects, which often involve complex cross-border elements and counterparties from multiple jurisdictions. They navigate legal challenges with creativity, precision, and a solutions-oriented approach.'
- 'The M&A team led by Souraya Machnouk is professional and dedicated, with great teamwork that translates into responsiveness and a positive client experience.'
Key clients
- Amazon
- Adobe
- Starbucks
- Subway
- PWC
- DHL
- Cutera
- Moderna
- Dior
- The Body Shop
- Elie Saab Group
- Thomson Reuters Corporation
Work highlights
Advised Elie Saab on a strategic joint venture with Ali Bin Ali for the brand’s expansion in Monaco.
Advised Doctors Without Borders Nederland on setting up operations in Lebanon.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Carlos Abou Jaoude; Souraya Machnouk; Simon El Kai; Ibrahim Barraj