Law Middle East

DLA Piper has announced the appointment of Nic Henrikson as co-managing partner for its office in Muscat, Oman. He specialises in dispute resolution, and brings experience in commercial and construction disputes before major arbitral institutions. “Nic’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the firm in Oman and across the wider region,” commented Paul Hopman, partner and global co-chair, litigation and regulatory. “Nic’s experience and insight will allow them to navigate complexity and benefit from his astute advice in a dynamic market. #Muscat #partners #management

Saudi Arabia is the fastest growing jurisdiction for Dentons in the Middle East, its latest financial results show. The global firm achieved 35% growth in the Kingdom through recruitment and leveraging relationships with key Saudi authorities. “Saudi Arabia is a key market for Dentons,” the firm’s UKIME chief executive, Paul Jarvis, told Law Middle East. “We are always looking at opportunities to expand our Saudi team.” #KSA #management #financials

Deals: Baker McKenzie has advised Almajed Oud in connection with its IPO on the Tadawul stock exchange, as appetite for listings in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues apace. Baker McKenzie Saudi Arabia managing partner Karim Nassar, who led the transaction, alongside recently-appointed partner Hessa AlAiban, said: “This transaction highlights the strong demand for Saudi companies in the capital markets, and we are delighted to have played a part in bringing such a distinguished local company to the public stage.” Almajed Oud hired BSF Capital as its sole financial advisor, lead manager, and book-runner, who was advised by STAT Law Firm. #Riyadh #IPOs

Deals: Helmy, Hamza & Partners - Baker McKenzie advised Banque Misr and CIB Egypt as lenders in connection with a real estate financing to SODIC, one of Egypt's leading real estate developers. The two banks signed a loan agreement valued at EGP 4.14 billion for the development of SODIC's Karmell project, which promises to contribute significantly to the ongoing growth of Egypt's real estate sector. The team was led by counsel Mostafa Lotayef and supported by senior associate Milad Fayez and associates Hania Meshref and Omar Mahmoud. #Egypt #realestate #dealwatch 🤝

Breaking: Dentons has expanded its regulatory and litigation practice in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a strategic partner hire. Abdullah Alsulaimi joins from the Ministry of Justice in Saudi Arabia, where he advised the Minister of Justice. He has also held significant judicial roles, including serving as a judge in various courts, and has been involved in drafting several key legislations over the past decade. “Abdullah’s arrival marks an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to build a full-service capability in this important and dynamic market,” commented Dentons UKIME CEO Paul Jarvis. #KSA #partners #moves

Hadef & Partners has unveiled a new brand identity. The #UAE law firm has rebranded with a new logo, improved digital presence, and sharpened focus on client needs. "Our enhanced brand identity reflects our firm's evolution and our journey alongside the UAE," said the firm's managing partner, Sadiq Jafar.

Deals: Baker McKenzie has advised a consortium led by SPE Capital on its acquisition of Tamweely Microfinance, a non-banking financial service provider specialising in serving micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Hani Nassef, M&A partner at Helmy, Hamza & Partners - Baker McKenzie, who led the team on the transaction, said: "This transaction plays a crucial role in supporting the Egyptian government's effort to enhance financial inclusion and empower the MSME sector, which is the backbone of the economy. By enabling greater access to finance, Tamweely's growth will further drive entrepreneurship and innovation across Egypt." #Cairo #finance #dealwatch 🤝

Gibson Dunn and Slaughter and May advised BlackRock on its acquisition of an undisclosed minority stake in the Saudi Bahrain Pipeline Company from Bapco Energies. Gibson Dunn advised on the financing aspects of the deal, whilst Slaughters provided M&A advice. The Gibson Dunn team advising BlackRock was led by London partner Kavita Manipadam Davis. The Slaughter and May team comprised partners Robin O., Oliver Moir, and Gareth Miles, all based in London.

Regional law firm BSA Ahmad Bin Hezeem & Associates has unveiled a new brand identity. The firm has adopted a new name beyond the identity of any of its individual partners and will now be known as BSA LAW.

While major technology outages are rare, their impact on the legal sector can be profound. Recent disruptions involving Microsoft and CrowdStrike have underscored the legal and commercial risks posed by such failures. By fostering a security-first mindset, vetting vendors, establishing security standards, ensuring secure proceedings, creating a recovery plan, and aligning with institutions law firms can establish the resilience necessary to face any technological challenge. Words by Shannon Ng of Opus 2