With a strong real estate private credit offering, King & Spalding LLP frequently advises real estate funds across a plethora of platforms. Malek Al Rifai and James Stull co-lead the practice, and Rifai is skilled at property leasing, management, and transactions. Stull is a strong choice for REITs across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, while Michael Rainey is vastly experienced in conventional and Shari’ah-compliant financing and restructuring transactions. Alex Barker is another key team member.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Their transparent and client-friendly way of working—whether in communication, structuring advice, or handling billing—added real value. Overall, the team offers a rare combination of professionalism, innovation, and genuine commitment, which we found far above the usual market standard.'
- 'Two individuals we worked closely with who truly stood out were Malek Al Rifai and Alex Barker. Malek Al Rifai impressed us with his ability to combine sharp legal analysis with a practical, business-oriented approach. He has a remarkable eye for detail while never losing sight of the bigger picture, which gave us confidence that both the legal and commercial aspects of the transaction were fully protected.'
- 'Their broad and deep understanding of the mechanics of real estate development, and henceforth their unique ability to work on structuring complex transactions while keeping a keen eye on all the moving parts - such as the consideration of market forces and commercial impacts, debt/leverage requirements, and other rules and regulations.'
- 'Alex Barker was equally exceptional in his professionalism and dedication. He consistently demonstrated accuracy and efficiency, often anticipating issues before they arose and proposing pragmatic solutions. His calm and steady handling of time-sensitive matters, coupled with his accessibility, made him an invaluable part of the team.'
- 'They approach matters with a practical mindset, focusing on solutions that are both legally sound and commercially effective. In terms of innovation, we found their collaborative approach, efficient use of technology, and flexible client service style to be refreshing.'
- 'Their breadth of experience is remarkable, and I was personally impressed by how quickly they could navigate complex issues while always maintaining clarity and precision. Compared to other firms, what differentiates them is their ability to act not just as legal advisors, but as true business partners.'
Key clients
- Affiliates of Driven Properties
- Nomura Singapore Limited
- Sweid & Sweid
- Janus Henderson
- NBK Capital Partners Real Estate Fund
- Muraba Properties
- Palladium Group
- Lamar Capital
- National Bank of Fujairah
- GFH Partners
- KKR
Work highlights
Acted as lead advisors to affiliates of Driven Properties on their strategic acquisition of Emaar Square Building 3 in Dubai, a landmark transaction valued at AED 505 million ($137.4 million).
Acted as legal advisors to Nomura Singapore Limited (“Nomura”), serving as lead arranger and lender, on a $100 million real estate private credit facility (the “Loan”) extended to an ultra luxury real estate developer in Dubai.
Advising Muraba Properties LLC on their ultra-luxury Muraba Veil off-plan development in Dubai, a prestigious and exclusive project designed to set a new standard for high-end living in the region.
Practice head
Malek Al Rifai; James Stull
Other key lawyers
Michael Rainey; Alex Barker