

United Arab Emirates
We have had a strong presence in the United Arab Emirates since 1978 and have offices in both of the country's major business centres – Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The United Arab Emirates is a significant part of our network. Our lawyers offer international expertise gained on high-profile, multi-jurisdictional transactions with deep local roots, the result of many years’ experience in the local Middle East markets where they operate. They advise on some of the most innovative and complex transactions in the region, many of which are market firsts. Over the years we have also built strong relationships with local law firms, key government agencies and regulatory bodies. Thanks to this combination we are now recognised as the preferred legal adviser to some of the most successful organisations operating in the United Arab Emirates, including those expanding overseas and international clients investing in the region.
Whether we are handling corporate, banking, project finance, capital markets, funds and real estate transactions or dispute resolution matters, we use the best of our technical and international expertise and local knowledge to find practical ways to help our clients achieve their business objectives.
Our first Middle East office opened in Dubai in 1978 and it has grown into a major force in the region. Our team of resident partners and associate lawyers, including Arabic speakers, have experience in working on some of the largest, most complex and unique transactions in the region for a variety of high-profile clients. In terms of track record, breadth of resources and consistent quality across the range of disciplines, there are few firms in Dubai capable of matching this overall service.
Our Abu Dhabi office opened in 2007 and today has a highly experienced team including a number of leading Abu Dhabi practitioners who brought with them extensive expertise and understanding of local practices, clients and transactions. We advise numerous local government entities on a wide variety of matters, including drafting.
Our experience
- Citibank, Deutsche Bank and HSBC Bank
- The lenders
- Dubai World
- Orascom Construction Industries (OCI)
- Al Khair National for Stocks and Real Estate Company LLC an investment company controlled by the Kharafi Group in Kuwait
- Government of Abu Dhabi
- Abraaj Capital
- Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA)
- Zayed University PPP Project
- DIAC Arbitration
Citibank, Deutsche Bank and HSBC Bank
The lenders
Dubai World
Orascom Construction Industries (OCI)
Al Khair National for Stocks and Real Estate Company LLC an investment company controlled by the Kharafi Group in Kuwait
Government of Abu Dhabi
Abraaj Capital
On the acquisition of a 49% stake in Network International LLC for approximately AED2bn.
On the establishment of a pan-MENA real estate fund, structured by way of a Cayman Islands exempted limited partnership, with investment projects across the MENA region.
Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA)
Zayed University PPP Project
DIAC Arbitration
Our offices

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Abu Dhabi
Allen & Overy LLP
5th Floor, Al Mamoura Building B, Muroor Road
Abu Dhabi
P.O. Box 7907
- +971 2 418 0400
- Send email
- View on map

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Dubai
Allen & Overy LLP
11th Floor, Burj Daman Building, Al Mustaqbal Street, Dubai International Financial Centre
Dubai
PO Box 506678
- +971 04 4267100
- Send email
- View on map
News & insights

Publications: 02 MARCH 2021
New updates to the Abu Dhabi Investment Office’s musataha
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) was mandated by the Government of Abu Dhabi to prepare an “enhanced” form of musataha to be used in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Read more
News: 14 DECEMBER 2020
Allen & Overy has advised NatWest Markets plc (NWM) and Banco Santander S.A (Santander) in connection with their USD682.8 million disposal of shares in Tadawul-listed The Saudi British Bank (SABB) by…
Read more
Publications: 30 NOVEMBER 2020
UAE Federal Companies Law amended to allow 100% foreign ownership
Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020 (the Decree) has been issued, introducing significant amendments to Federal Law No. 2 of 2015 on Commercial Companies (the CCL).
Read more
Publications: 15 OCTOBER 2020
AIMA regulatory deep dive programme: Middle East
Allen & Overy experts took part in a panel discussion on recent trends and developments in the Middle East asset management environment, with a particular focus on the UAE.
Read moreRecognition
Allen & Overy LLP has an impressive track record in acting on high-profile mandates across the region.
LEGAL 500 2017 (MIDDLE EAST)
Multiple commentators, including both peers and clients, endorse Allen & Overy's status as a top-tier practice in the market.
Chambers Global 2017 UAE (Capital Markets)
Sources bestow glowing recommendations upon this practice and say: "They are top-notch and one of the best firms working in the region.
Chambers Global 2017 UAE (Banking & Finance)
Strength in depth across its practices, locally and regionally, and decades of experience in the UAE is what separates Allen & Overy
IFLR1000 2016 (UAE)
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We are at the top end of the market – as evidenced by advising on all ground-breaking ‘big-ticket’ deals across the UAE and wider Middle East.
Media contact
Contact details
Dubai
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Allen & Overy LLP
11th Floor, Burj Daman Building, Al Mustaqbal Street, Dubai International Financial Centre
Dubai
PO Box 506678
- View office