Praised for its ability to combine ‘sharp legal expertise with strong business practices’, Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP maintains a strong presence in the maritime, trade, and offshore sectors, acting in high-value and complex matters across both contentious and non-contentious mandates. The team is well-known for handling the full spectrum of dry and wet shipping disputes, including major litigation and international arbitration, as well as providing corporate and transactional advice to maritime clients throughout the region. Rania Tadros, who leads the firm’s global maritime and offshore offering, continues to advise on some of the most sophisticated disputes in the market. Mohamed El Hawawy, head of shipping and insurance for the Middle East, brings deep expertise across marine insurance and transportation disputes. The wider group includes Khurram Ali, who is recognised for his strong practice in Saudi Arabia, and Mark Lakin, who is noted for his work on shipping and international trade disputes. Saif Almobideen remains heavily involved in high-profile civil law litigation, crisis management instructions, and marine insurance matters, while Menelaus Kouzoupis advises on leading superyacht mandates and sanctions-related issues. Chinar Zaidi and Paul Katsouris feature prominently across the firm’s maritime caseload, and Rustum Shah is another highly active member of the department.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The team as a whole are very attentive and available. They offer an excellent service, which rarely requires much by way of further input or revision of work product. They are exceptionally knowledgeable and bring their in-depth commercial experience of the industry to bear on the top legal advice they provide.’
- 'Mark Lakin stands out.’
- ‘The practice has proven to be highly reliable and efficient, with a strong understanding of commercial and contractual matters relevant to export activities. What makes this team unique is their practical approach and ability to tailor legal solutions to our specific business needs.'
- 'Saif Almobideen, in particular, has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of export-related legal frameworks. His guidance has been instrumental in ensuring clarity and compliance throughout our contract processes.’
- ‘The individuals we work with stand out for their professionalism, accessibility, and deep understanding of the legal and commercial aspects of our operations. Among them, Saif Almobideen and his team have been particularly exceptional. Their ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical, actionable advice sets them apart from others we’ve worked with.’
- ‘Stephenson Harwood combines sharp legal expertise with strong business practices, client-focused service, and ethical integrity. Its strengths and capabilities lie not only in its legal acumen but also in its ability to operate efficiently, build and maintain client trust.'
Key clients
- National Bank of Fujairah
- Drydocks World - Dubai LLC
- Petrichor Energy FZCO
- Ceto Shipping Corporation
- Hapag-Lloyd Middle East Shipping LLC
- Dr Morteza Rajabieslami
- China Shipowners Mutual Assurance Association
Work highlights
Advised the National Bank of Fujairah PJSC and The Arab Energy Fund on a USD300m financing facility provided to Stanford Marine and Allianz Middle East Ship Management, managed by the UAE-based asset manager SHUAA Capital psc.
Acting for Petrichor Energy FZCO in respect of multiple high-value disputes against Ultimate Oil & Gas DMCC, arising out of UOG's failure to pay for gasoil CEE sold to UOG, and delivered to Rahamaniyya and Zamson terminals in Nigeria, and ancillary costs (demurrage and interest) pursuant to seven sale contracts.
Advised Drydocks World Dubai on a USD132m ship building contract for a 5000-metre sheerleg floating crane that it was purchasing from Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries.
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.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Rania Tadros
Other key lawyers
Mohamed El Hawawy; Mark Lakin; Khurram Ali; Saif Almobideen; Menelaus Kouzoupis; Chinar Zaidi; Paul Katsouris; Rustum Shah; Monika Humphreys-Davies; Mazin El Amin; Mahmoud El Sayed