A key port of call for domestic and international clients on trade mark portfolios, DLA Piper is skilled at design, copyright and domain name matters. Praised as ‘highly knowledgeable and solution-oriented’, Saba Al Sultani oversees the practice and is well-versed in cross-border IP disputes. Rachel Pieris is skilled at technology and brand licensing.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘DLA Piper UAE’s IP practice combines deep local expertise with the resources of a global network, offering clients seamless support in trade mark prosecution, brand protection, anti-counterfeiting, and disputes. They are recognised for their commercial approach, aligning IP strategies with business priorities and providing clear, practical guidance across multiple jurisdictions.'
- 'Compared with other firms, they stand out for their ability to scale regionally while maintaining responsive, on-the-ground service. Clients also benefit from their investment in legal technology, efficient portfolio management tools, and collaborative, cross-practice solutions.’
- ‘Saba Al Sultani and her colleagues at DLA Piper (ADME) LLP have become invaluable advisers. The complex nature of business across the Middle East requires not only sound legal advice but also a pragmatic business approach. They routinely provide practical insight and astute legal guidance in a holistic manner. Notably, they bring creativity to handling significant and complex matters. Moreover, they are diligent in their approach, highly responsive to inquiries, proactive in communication, and judicious in managing dockets. They are also receptive to client guidance and highly collaborative.’
- ‘Saba Al Sultani of DLA Piper Middle East, and her team, are unique and stand apart from other firms for three main reasons: responsiveness and thoroughness, particularly in a region that has so many nuances and differing TMOs with their specific rules; a strategic mindset, whereby they work with clients to determine the most effective filing strategy locally versus WIPO, and across classes and word/combo marks; and their professionalism and integrity.'
- 'They handle the finer details expertly in a region where such details truly matter, and they make it remarkably easy to work with them. Their processes integrate seamlessly with client systems, and everything simply works — efficiently and well.’
- ‘Saba Al Sultani is highly knowledgeable and solution-oriented, always providing clear and practical guidance. We have particularly valued her reliability, proactive communication, and the confidence she inspires in handling complex IP issues. The wider team is equally impressive — consistently fast, efficient, and supportive — making it easy to rely on them as trusted partners.’
- ‘Alicia Ma is professional, approachable, and always delivers clear, commercial advice that reflects a strong grasp of the client’s business priorities. Her responsiveness and attention to detail make her a valued member of the team.’
- ‘Rachel Pieris demonstrates excellent technical ability and professionalism. She communicates clearly, manages expectations effectively, and provides advice that is both precise and pragmatic.’
Lawyers
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
Saba Al Sultani
Other key lawyers
Rachel Pieris