Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s team ’possesses deep knowledge and extensive experience in M&A and JV transactions as well as UAE market dynamics and business‘, providing astute transactional advice to a prolific roster of sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and financial sponsors. The highly experienced Gamal Abouali isa well-regarded cross-border advisor who handles a wealth of complex M&A and private equity transactions. Chris Macbeth ’stands out with his client-centric approach‘ and retains close connections to a number of Abu Dhabi-based investors, overseeing cross border M&A, private equity and venture capital deals. Timofey Neklyudov also comes recommended. Lynn Ammar left the firm in September 2024. Mike Taylor joined from Clifford Chance in January 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Their practice stands out due to its fully bilingual team (Arabic and English), ensuring seamless communication and understanding of both local and international clients. Additionally, they have a deep-rooted understanding of the local UAE culture, which is critical for navigating the intricate legal and regulatory landscape. This, combined with their team’s extensive international experience, allows them to provide a unique blend of local expertise with global best practices.'
‘Responsive with good understanding of local laws and international best practices.’
‘The team's dedication and attention to detail was critical to resolve complex situations. Their ability to understand critical business aspects is outstanding.’
- 'Cleary's team possesses deep knowledge and extensive experience in M&A and JV transactions as well as UAE market dynamics and business. This ensures that every aspect of the deal is meticulously handled. Their ability to foresee potential challenges and connect current projects to previous deals has been instrumental in finalising transactions with business partners.'
- 'Chris Macbeth stands out with his client-centric approach, dedication to understanding unique needs and objectives and always on mindset, which sets him apart from competitors and makes him a trusted, reliable and responsive partner.'
Key clients
- Fertiglobe PLC
- Mubadala
- OCI N.V.
- Philip Morris International
Work highlights
- Advised Philip Morris International on the acquisition of a minority indirect stake in Eastern Company and the increase in its stake in United Tobacco Company from a minority to a majority stake.
- Represented OCI N.V. in a strategic sale of its entire equity stake in Fertiglobe PLC to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for a total consideration of approximately AED13 billion.
- Representing Mubadala in its $400 million seed investment into Middle Market Apollo Institutional Private Lending, a closed-end management investment company sponsored by Apollo Credit Management.
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.
Practice head
Gamal Abouali; Chris Macbeth
Other key lawyers
Timofey Neklyudov; Mike Taylor