Akin‘s ’highly sophisticated and reliable’ compliance and investigations practice is particularly strong advising international clients on export control regimes, sanctions and trade-related regulations, and interactions with American regulations and legislations. Internal investigations, white-collar crime, crisis reaction and transactional advisory work is another area of focus. The ‘very knowledgeable’ Mahmoud Fadlallah and Lauren Talerman co-head the practice, with the duo experienced acting on criminal and investigatory instructions for prominent regional and international energy, technology, and aviation companies. ’Extremely bright and dedicated’, Zahra Mashhood is another key contact within the practice.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Our “got-to-counsel” for all US, UK, EU sanctions and export control, trade policy questions and advisory support. Akin has also supported on FARA related advisory work, U.S. tariff impact assessments. They are locally based (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) allowing for prompt and accessible support. '
- 'Special mentions to Mac Fadlallah, who is supported by a responsive and knowledgeable team. All highly professional, proactive, personable and a pleasure to work with.'
- ‘Very pragmatic, excellent industry knowledge and superb end-to-end client support.'
- ‘Mac Fadlallah - very knowledgeable, organised, well spoken and a pleasure to work with. Zahra Mashhood - extremely bright and dedicated, a rising star.'
- ‘Akin’s economic sanctions practice is highly sophisticated and reliable. In addition to its deep expertise in this field, the team is also outstanding in terms of responsiveness and in offering practical, client-focused solutions tailored to specific needs.’
- ‘Lauren Talerman at Akin's Dubai office possesses strong expertise in U.S. law and consistently provides solid, reliable solutions. For issues involving EU/UK sanctions law—which often arise in practice alongside U.S. law—we work with Chiara Klaui in the London office. She is also highly capable, and we have complete confidence in her handling of matters. The collaboration between the Dubai office (for U.S. law) and the London office (for EU and UK law) is seamless, allowing for efficient, one-stop support.’
Key clients
- VEON Ltd.
- Al Yah Satellite Communication Company PJSC (Yahsat)/SPACE42
Work highlights
Advised VEON on sanctions compliance with respect to VEON’s May 2024 consent solicitation to amend the terms of its outstanding bonds.
Advised Al Yah Satellite Communication Company PJSC (Yahsat) on its merger with Bayanat transaction, an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered geospatial analytics company, both headquartered in Abu Dhabi.
Providing legal advice to a world-renowned food and beverage company on matters that relate to corporate compliance with U.S. sanctions.
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.
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
Mahmoud Fadlallah; Lauren Talerman
Other key lawyers
Zahra Mashhood; Chiara Klaui; Ziad El Oud; Brian Gatta