Praised for its ‘expertise and a strong sense of commitment’, Ashurst LLP continues to play a central role in many of the region’s most significant oil and gas and energy transition mandates, advising across the full value chain, including upstream and LNG through refining, petrochemicals, and trading. The firm is a long-standing adviser to ADNOC and its wider group, acting in major corporate transactions, as well as strategic project development work. Co-head David Charlier advises on a broad mix of conventional and transition-focused matters, including complex acquisitions, disposals, and project structuring. Fellow co-head Simon Rahimzada is regularly instructed on M&A and private equity deals across the sector. Elsewhere in the team, Luke Robottom has been active in emerging areas, such as CCUS, water treatment, and logistics infrastructure, while Raquel Tarancon Plata is noted for her expertise in project finance and development matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘What sets Ashurst apart is the genuine dedication of its partners to their clients. Their openness and transparency build real trust.'
- ‘I work closely with David Charlier, whose dedication and willingness to accommodate our needs, whether in terms of time, resources, or budget, truly stand out. He consistently goes the extra mile by providing value-added services that make a real difference.'
- 'With a diverse and approachable team that has been supporting our industry in the region for many years, they bring expertise and a strong sense of commitment and care.’
- 'Bilal Rana and Faisal Bassiri from the Saudi Arabia office have been outstandingly supportive partners. Together, they share a genuine commitment to ensuring their clients feel well supported and valued.’
Key clients
- ADNOC
- Kuwait Petroleum Corporation
- Petrochemical Industries Company K.S.C
- ADES Investments Holding Ltd
- Sojitz
- Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners
- Abu Dhabi National Energy Company
- Alpha Dhabi
- Itochu Corporation
- SLB
Work highlights
Advising ADNOC Logistics & Services Plc on its acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Navig8 TopCo Holdings Inc from Navig8 Ltd.
Advising ADNOC, as procurer, on the development, design, engineering, procurement, permitting, construction, commissioning, insurance, operation, maintenance, and transfer of two independent water treatment and transportation systems, comprising the seawater intake/outfall and nanofiltration plants in Al Nouf and Mirfa, the water transportation pipelines, and the pumping stations in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on a build, own, operate, and transfer basis.
Advising ADNOC on all aspects of the establishment of ADNOC Gas.
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
David Charlier; Simon Rahimzada
Other key lawyers
Luke Robottom; Stuart James; Raquel Tarancon Plata; Bilal Rana; Faisal Bassiri