Profile
Position
Managing Partner
Career
Adv. Ali is the founder and managing partner of Horizons & Co law firm. He is a highly accomplished and meticulous lawyer, having practiced law for 30 years. His area of specialisation is primarily litigation and arbitration with a proven track record of success in dispute matters. He is especially well-known for his expertise in the construction, real estate and financial services sectors.
He has represented some of the most prominent companies, establishments and individuals before all levels of courts and various arbitration tribunals. He is a qualified arbitrator registered with Dubai International Arbitration Centre and is licensed as a Private Notary Public by the Dubai Courts.
Adv. Ali has represented clients before public prosecutions, police stations, rent committees, conciliation committees and every level of court in the UAE, across all areas of litigation.
He also has a long track record in ratification and nullification of arbitration awards before courts.
In addition to private individuals, Adv. Ali has represented several prominent companies in complex arbitration matters. He has acted as local co-counsel in many such matters before various arbitration tribunals in the UAE and is an expert in negotiations.
Numerous settlements on behalf of his corporate and individual clients bear testimony to a respected ability to influence the resolution of disputes in an amicable yet successful manner.
Languages
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I have worked with this firm on multiple dispute resolution matters for my clients, and I have consistently been impressed by the team’s professionalism, strategic approach, and deep understanding of local and regional legal frameworks. What makes this practice unique is its ability to combine technical expertise with practical, business-focused solutions, ensuring clients are not only legally protected but also positioned to achieve optimal outcomes. Potential clients should know that the team excels in handling complex disputes efficiently and effectively, offering clear and pragmatic advice. Their collaborative approach sets them apart, fostering seamless coordination across different practice areas and with client teams.'
‘The individuals I have worked with stand out for their dedication, responsiveness, and ability to translate complex legal issues into clear, actionable advice. In particular, Ali Al Zarooni, Lilas Al Akhras, and Refat Zeidan have been exceptional in providing high-quality service. Ali demonstrates a remarkable strategic vision and an ability to anticipate challenges before they arise, guiding clients through even the most complex disputes with confidence. Lilas brings a meticulous and thoughtful approach to her work, consistently delivering precise and commercially practical advice. Refat combines strong technical expertise with excellent client care, ensuring that matters are handled smoothly and efficiently.'
‘I work extensively with Ali Al Zarooni and Lilas Alakhras at Horizons. They and their team are always very responsive and client focused, and highly effective. This includes on a number of issues, including acting for international clients on fraud related claims.’
‘Ali Al Zarooni and Lilas Alakhras are very responsive and supportive. They also understand what international clients are seeking and can explain clearly the differences and nuances of operating in the local UAE court system.’
‘Lilas Alakhras is simply the very best person you could have on your team if you are seeking to resolve a dispute - she is commercially minded, very knowledgeable, practical and at the same time doesn't shy away from difficult challenges. I would hate to be up against her! And of course Advocate Ali Al Zarooni is a very talented leader and a visionary in so many ways, and his 25 years at the helm of his firm speaks for itself. If you do business in the UAE you want to be working with this firm.’
Key clients
- Extrahop Networks Inc. v MEA TEC ICICI Bank DIFC & National Bank of Fujairah v Manazel PJSC Barclays Bank Gulf Petrochem FZC Gp- global hi3nt terminal STAREX International First Abu Dhabi Bank P.J.S.C Orascom Construction Co 1 OKX Middle East Fintech FZE Extrahop Networks Inc. v MEA TEC ICICI Bank DIFC & National Bank of Fujairah v Manazel PJSC Barclays Bank Gulf Petrochem FZC Gp- global hi3nt terminal STAREX International First Abu Dhabi Bank P.J.S.C Orascom Construction Co 1 OKX Middle East Fintech FZE