Praised for its ‘technical proficiency and commercial insight’, Foot Anstey is reputed for its expertise in real estate finance and investment. Beyond real estate, the firm is increasingly involved in offshore listed private placement sukuks and Islamic funding lines for a range of structures, including bridge financing, home financing, and litigation funding. The team’s deep bench of specialists is led by Imam Qazi, who is singled out for his ’sharp legal acumen and forward-thinking perspective’. Alongside Qazi’s broad transactional workload, he advises banks in launching and improving Islamic finance products. Zahir Nayani is a standout in the team and is well-versed in structuring and drafting Shariah-compliant credit lines. Alan Hughes is a go-to for regulatory advice, while Lingxi Wang supports on matters involving the acquisition, financing and disposal of real estate assets. Kate Heard, Ayah Snober and Aziz Deen, who handle transactions involving both commercial and residential assets, are other notable individuals.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Foot Anstey distinguishes itself through a combination of deep sector expertise, a client-centric ethos, and a progressive approach to legal service delivery. The practice is recognised not only for its technical proficiency and commercial insight but also for the strength and accessibility of its people.’
‘Zahir Nayani is consistently impressive in his ability to combine deep legal knowledge with a pragmatic, commercially driven mindset; he approaches matters with clarity and confidence, offering well-reasoned recommendations that reflect a strong understanding of our business objectives. Imam Qazi is adept at navigating nuanced commercial issues and always brings a solution-oriented approach to discussions. ’
‘The Foot Anstey Islamic finance has an exceptional level of expertise. They are a well-established team with a deep understanding of Shariah-compliant financial structures; their knowledge and meticulous approach makes the execution of transactions seamless.’
‘I have had the pleasure of working with Zahir Nayani and Kate Heard on a number of transactions. They are both very knowledgeable and were always available to offer clear and thoughtful guidance. Beyond their expertise, they are genuinely personable and kind, making interactions both professional and enjoyable. ’
‘Foot Anstey's Islamic Finance practice stands out through its depth of knowledge, highly professional approach and specialised expertise in Shariah-compliant transactions within the UK legal market. The team's invaluable insight into the Islamic Finance market stands as a cornerstone of their practice.’
‘The team's focus on Islamic Finance takes a different approach than other firms, meaning they are uniquely situated to provide tailored and expert advice to clients ’
Key clients
- QNB
- QIB (UK) plc
- Bank of London and the Middle East
- Gatehouse Bank
- ABC International Bank plc
- Black Sand Real Estate
- Kuwait Finance House
- Nester
- Sidra Capital
- Riyad Bank (London Branch)
- Gulf Islamic Investments
- Al Rayan Bank
Work highlights
Advised ADIB on their first UK syndicated real estate finance transaction, structured on a Shariah-compliant basis to refinance a development facility secured over a 356-bed luxury PBSA asset branded as Citi View Paddington (previously known as the historic Lillian Penson Hall).
Advised Riyad Bank (London Branch) on the strategic refinance of a portfolio of UK offices with a combined market value of £77.5m located across Manchester, Birmingham and the South East.
Advised Bahrain-based Blacksand on its acquisition of Signature London, The J Marylebone Hotel, a 4-star guest accommodation property in Marylebone.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Zahir Nayani
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Aziz Deen
Kate Heard
Ayah Snober
Practice head
Imam Qazi
Other key lawyers
Zahir Nayani; Alan Hughes; Kate Heard; Ayah Snober; Aziz Deen