Latham & Watkins has unveiled plans to open three new offices in the Persian Gulf as the top five U.S. firm finalizes its long-awaited Middle East launch.
Latham is set to open in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha in the next couple of months with partner Rindala Beydoun joining the firm to head the practice across the region.
As revealed last week by Legal Week, Latham has hired corporate partner Beydoun from Vinson & Elkins to lead its Middle East push. At Vinson, Beydoun split her time between the firm's Abu Dhabi and Dubai offices.
Latham is now planning to bulk up the offices by transferring a number of partners and associates.
Latham's Middle East practice will focus on M&A and private equity as well as project development and finance. Beydoun has general corporate experience, as well as having worked on a number of real estate projects in the region.
Latham Chairman and managing partner Robert Dell commented: "The Gulf Region represents one of the most dynamic markets in the global economy and we are delighted to announce the opening of three offices in the region. While we have substantial experience advising companies and financial institutions operating in the Middle East, having a physical presence in the region is strategically very important for our global expansion."
Significant deals Latham has worked on in the region include advising Qatar Gas Transport Company on its $7.3 billion project financing of more than 20 liquefied natural gas vessels to transport LNG from Qatar's North Field. The firm has also advised the Qatar Investment Authority.
