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.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘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.’
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
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.
Lawyers
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
Raya Al Harthy; Cheryl Cairns; Matthew Showler
Other key lawyers
Abdullah Al Barwani; Alyaqdhan Al Waily