Praised for its ‘ability to combine deep knowledge of UAE labour law with strong expertise in ADGM and DIFC frameworks’, Addleshaw Goddard is versed in employee investigations. Practice head Rachel Hill is ’known for her strategic oversight and practical approach to sensitive senior exits’. Lucy Melville is noted for her experience in drafting employee handbooks and contracts.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Rachel Hill is known for her strategic oversight and practical approach to sensitive senior exits.’
- ‘Rachel Hill is very good at being pragmatic and commercial while also clarifying the nuances of UAE law.’
- ‘Rachel Hill and Lucy Meville are very strong lawyers in employment law and have always been able to advise us. They proactively seek information we need and give us very pragmatic view on all our queries.’
- ‘The AG employment team demonstrates deep expertise in local laws and procedures, consistently delivering innovative and practical solutions to complex challenges.’
- 'Their ability to adapt quickly to evolving business needs reflects a high degree of flexibility and commercial awareness. The team is highly responsive, client-focused, and committed to delivering outcomes that align with our strategic objectives.’
- ‘Rachel Hill and Lucy Meville are technically excellent, but what truly sets them apart is their ability to seamlessly integrate with internal teams and act as genuine business partners. Their advice consistently reflects a strong commercial acumen, ensuring that legal guidance is not only sound but also aligned with broader business objectives.’
- ‘Rachel Hill is pragmatic, straightforward, and commercial.’
- ‘AG’s employment practice is unique in its ability to combine deep knowledge of UAE labour law with strong expertise in ADGM and DIFC frameworks, which is rare in the market.’
Work highlights
Advising Visa International on all UAE employment and pensions matters, including the rollout of enhanced employee benefits and sensitive discrimination litigation before the UAE Labour Courts.
Acting as trusted adviser to Adidas across the Middle East, supporting on Emiratisation compliance, complex terminations, freelancer structuring, and manpower provider regulation.
Advised Petrofac International Ltd on Middle East employment matters, including strategic advice on whistleblowing investigations and terminations.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Rachel Hill
Other key lawyers
Lucy Meville