CMS Cameron McKenna has become the latest U.K. firm to set its sights on Dubai, with the firm applying for a license to open in the region.
London energy partner Matthew Culver is expected to relocate to Dubai to lead the office, which is set to open as soon as the firm has received regulatory approval.
The office will focus on energy work, with energy head Penelope Warne, who splits her time between London and Aberdeen, stating that the small team in Dubai will be integrated with the wider 20-partner energy practice.
She said: "The new office in Dubai will build on the substantial amount of energy work which we already do in the Middle East. Among other things, our existing energy client base is investing in the rehabilitation of the Iraqi oil and gas industry.
"The opening coincides with many energy companies now choosing Dubai as the base for the management and expansion of their interests in the wider Middle East."
News of CMS Cameron McKenna's plans comes as the wider CMS network has put finding a U.S. member firm to the top of its list of strategic priorities, with Cornelius Brandi, CMS executive chairman and senior partner of CMS Hasche Sigle, leading the initiative.
Other U.K. law firms announcing plans to open in Dubai in recent months include Addleshaw Goddard, which recruited a partner from Trowers & Hamlins to lead its disputes-focused offering in July, and Stephenson Harwood, which confirmed plans to apply for a license in April.
