Drawing on the firm’s global network, Kennedys‘ ’efficient and professional’ insurance team is adept at handling contentious and non-contentious matters at an international level. The group is called upon by local and international insurers and reinsurers thanks to its expertise in insurance-backed commercial disputes and across the gamut of industries and services, from aviation to healthcare and medical to specialty lines. An expert in claims handling and avoidance, Peter Ellingham advises international insurers and reinsurers on fraud and theft, property damage, business interruption and policy interpretation. Promoted to partner in May 2024, Rishi Sengupta focuses his commercial disputes practice on insurance and reinsurance matters. Mehdi Seadon specialises in property, energy and construction, aviation and trade credit disputes, and Reem Bangina is also noted.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘We have always found the firm to be very efficient and professional and all the team have a vast amount of knowledge and expertise in aviation. We know that a case is being handled by individuals with aviation experience. We would consider using the firm on any new instructions.’

  • ‘We have worked with Reem Bangina and Mehdi Seadon predominately. They are both very knowledgeable, friendly, professional and approachable. They are very good to work with and their individual knowledge is exceptional. On the cases we have worked with them they have a great relationship with clients and always will go the extra mile to fight our corner. They will always look to settle cases early if liability is an issue for us and they are always available to take a call to discuss strategy. Overall, the team are a pleasure to work with.’

  • ‘We have worked with Kennedys now for a number of years on large disputes and arbitration and now work with them on a number of advisory and difficult nuance legal cases. The attention to detail and advice that are given are excellent and will always come with a strong supporting argument to why /what needs to be done next. Great team to work with from case management perspective and keep on top of things.’

  • ‘Peter Ellingham an absolute veteran in the market and so well-known and respected. With regards to working with Peter he is so levelheaded and provides strong advice and opinions. Peter gets involved, is hands on and knows each matter that he has worked on with us to a level of detail which is fantastic. Kelsey Evans is very detailed and extremely responsive. Kelsey is one to watch for the future. Her pure grit and dedication to get things done is something else. All advice is detailed and to the point, which support us in taking next steps. Her organizational skills and hard work stood out from the start. Excellent person to have on a team.’

  • ‘Kennedys in the UAE has a truly diverse practice comprising of individuals with unparalleled expertise, and work on a perfect blend of teamwork and assistance. They are the leading firm for insurance and reinsurance and would be the first port of call for any insurer (global or regional) because of their subject matter expertise and genuinely good people.’

  • ‘Peter Ellingham is one of the most experienced insurance individuals in the market. But equally always available to guide, assist and support when required. The biggest positive about Peter is that he genuinely promotes his team which is clear from the recent development and promotions in their insurance practice. Rishi Sengupta - a clear leader when it comes to advising on local insurance and reinsurance issues, and making them clear, concise and precise for international insurers who may not be fully conversant with the regional nuances. Besides that, he is one the few of a truly diverse background in the international insurance practices in the region. Mehdi Seadon - clear and precise in what he does and how he does it.’

Key clients

  • AIG
  • Al Ain Ahlia
  • Allianz
  • Argo (Now Westfield Speciality)
  • Global Aerospace Underwriting Managers Limited
  • Gulf Insurance Group (GIG Gulf)
  • National General Insurance
  • Orient Insurance PJSC
  • Sukoon Insurance (formerly Oman Insurance Company PSC)
  • RSA
  • Zurich Insurance Company

Work highlights

Successfully represented an international insurance broker in a preliminary issues hearing whilst defending a professional negligence claim brought against it in the DIFC Courts by a group of retail companies (the Insureds).
Successfully defended insurers in a $60m claim by the Russian owner of a private jet before the ADGM Courts.

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.

Peter Ellingham

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Rishi Sengupta

Practice head

Peter Ellingham

Other key lawyers

Rishi Sengupta; Mehdi Seadon; Reem Bangina