Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton acts for sovereigns, corporates and investment banks on IPOs, rights issues, block trades and international debt offerings. Its Abu Dhabi practice is led by a deep bench of UK- and US-qualified partners with regional experience, advising on UAE listings and cross-border transactions and supporting clients on novel regulatory and execution issues. Mike Taylor leads the team after joining from Clifford Chance in January 2025 and brings a proven track record on complex ECM transactions. Co-heads Gamal Abouali and Mohamed Taha have extensive capital market practices that cover a range of regional and international markets and a variety of financial products. Kay Hechaime often acts as underwriters counsel.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Key clients
- Citigroup
- GlobalFoundries
- HSBC Saudi Arabia
- HSBC Holdings
- Synergy Capital
- Barclays
- First Abu Dhabi Bank
Work highlights
Represented HSBC Saudi Arabia (HSBC), as the sole financial advisor, global coordinator, lead manager, bookrunner, and underwriter, in the SAR 1.016 billion (approx. $271 million) initial public offering of Arabian Mills for Food Products Company (Arabian Mills).
Represented the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, as a selling shareholder, in the initial public offering of Galderma Group AG (Galderma) on the SIX Swiss Exchange. The IPO consisted of the offer of new and existing shares by Galderma and its selling shareholders.
Advised the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, as a member of a group of leading shareholders in Galderma Group AG, regarding their sale of an aggregate 10% stake in Galderma to L’Oréal S.A. (L’Oréal). The transaction was effected by way of an off-market block trade.
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.
Practice head
Mike Taylor; Mohamed Taha; Gamal Abouali
Other key lawyers
Kay Hechaime; Olisa Maduegbuna