Watson Farley & Williams leads on commercial litigation across the DIFC Courts in the shipping and aviation, hospitality, and financial sectors. The firm has recently acted in cases complicated by debt recoveries, award enforcements, and worldwide freezing orders. Charlotte Bijlani provides counsel on arbitration and litigation, and Natalie Jensen focuses on the maritime sector. Amir Mahdavi strengthened the practice in April 2025 joining from Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP, bringing capabilities in international commercial litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘What makes this practice unique is the combination of deep sector expertise with a genuinely client-focused approach. The team at Watson Farley & Williams LLP demonstrates a high level of technical knowledge in arbitration and international litigation, but what sets them apart is their ability to combine that expertise with clear, pragmatic advice. They are highly responsive, proactive, and consistently take ownership of the matter, which builds confidence even in complex cross-border disputes.'
- ‘The individuals I have worked with at Watson Farley & Williams LLP stand out for their professionalism, accessibility, and depth of expertise. The partners I have engaged with demonstrate exceptional strategic thinking, attention to detail, and an ability to anticipate issues before they arise. I have valued their clear communication and ability to remain calm and solutions-oriented even in high-pressure situations. Associates on the team have also been impressive — highly diligent, responsive, and consistently delivering high-quality work to tight deadlines.’
- 'A well organised team that provides detailed communication and updates on the issues in hand. Whether its the Dubai team or the London office our cases are handled professionally with our best interests taken care of.'
- 'Natalie Jensen, James Lehmann and Emma James are always available and on hand to help us in our times of need. Natalie has also been off on Maternity Leave and still able to be contactable in some instances where urgent advice required.'
Key clients
- EFG Bank AG
- Trafigura
- M.A.E Aircraft Management W.L.L
- China State Construction Engineering Corporation (Middle East)
- Bin Otaiba Investment Group
- Yanbu Cement Company
- FTAI Aviation
- Citibank NA
- Gulf Wings FZE
- Sahara International Petrochemical Company (SIPCHEM)
- DANT Investments LLC
Work highlights
Secured a worldwide freezing order for EFG Bank AG in a USD 102 million loan default case, covering assets across multiple jurisdictions.
Acting for Dant Investment in DIFC Court proceedings against Olive Green Holding over the buyer’s last-minute repudiation of a Bombardier Challenger 605 sale.
Representing Bin Otaiba Investment Group (BOIG) in a high-value aircraft dispute before the English High Court against GAMA Aviation over unauthorised maintenance works and the prolonged detention of a Bombardier Global 5000.
Practice head
Charlotte Bijlani
Other key lawyers
Natalie Jensen; Amir Mahdavi