Simmons & Simmons has expanded to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the opening of an office in Riyadh.
The international firm signalled its intention to open an office in Riyadh in January 2024. The office is now open and fully operational, according to a statement.
It will be led by Amer Al Amr, a seasoned disputes lawyer with over 25 years of experience in Saudi Arabia. He will be supported by construction partner Niall Clancy, as well as local and international lawyers. Banking and finance partner Umera Ali, who recently joined from Dentons, will provide additional support.
The office will focus on key sectors including asset management and investment funds, financial institutions, healthcare and life sciences, and technology, media and telecommunications. It will also have a focus on energy, natural resources, and infrastructure.
“The launch of our Riyadh office represents a pivotal moment for Simmons & Simmons in the region,” said Middle East head Muneer Khan. “It not only reaffirms our commitment to meeting the unique legal needs of the Saudi market but also underscores our drive to deliver innovative, world-class solutions to our clients as the region evolves.”
Al Amr added: “I am honoured to lead Simmons & Simmons’ new Riyadh office. This development blends our deep local expertise with a robust international platform, enabling us to navigate the complexities of a dynamic market. I look forward to building strong local partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for our clients in Saudi Arabia and beyond.”
International law firms are rapidly expanding their presence in Saudi Arabia, driven by the Kingdom’s recent legal reforms allowing them to operate independently without local affiliations.
