DWF takes first step overseas

NATIONAL law firm DWF, which has its head office in Manchester, is making its first steps into international markets with the launch of an office in Dubai.

The practice says its Middle East investment will allow it to support clients across the construction, energy, insurance and transport sectors in the Middle East and North Africa.

It said: “The move is in direct response to demand from major developers and contractors, and insurer clients, for legal advice on the ground in Dubai to support the construction boom in large infrastructure, housing, tourism, and air and port facilities across the Middle East.”

DWF, which is taking 1,000 sq ft of office space in the heart of the Dubai International Finance Centre, will launch the office with a team of four including two partners who will advise on contentious and non-contentious construction matters, professional indemnity and non-marine insurance work. The team will be led by Chris Ryan who has been partner at DWF since 2011.

The firm has also recruited construction partner Steven Hunt from Holland & Knight. With over 11 years’ practising in the UAE Steven supports private and public sector clients and specialises in construction and real estate law.

Andrew Leaitherland, managing partner amd chief executive, said: “There is a real opportunity for us in Dubai. We’ve supported clients in Dubai and across the MENA region for many years and it’s become increasingly clear that there is demand for our services on the ground, particularly in relation to construction and insurance work.

“We’re building a strong team with superb credentials and have a pipeline of work from existing clients already underway so we’re off to a very strong start and look forward to consolidating our commitment to this hugely important region.”