How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

A comprehensive understanding of business risks and regulatory changes is essential for long-term success. By proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating these challenges, we can integrate risk management into our core strategy. This involves evaluating the nature and severity of risks, developing effective mitigation plans, and potentially eliminating threats altogether. Business continuity planning is a critical component of this process, ensuring the company can operate effectively during crises.

How do you measure the impact of ESG initiatives on the company’s overall performance and reputation?

ESG is a strategic imperative for my company. As the ESG lead, I am dedicated to cultivating a shared understanding of ESG principles throughout the organisation. Our goal is to integrate ESG considerations into our core business strategy, fostering a resilient and adaptable company culture centred on sustainability and responsibility. We believe ESG is a catalyst for operational efficiency and a fundamental transformation of modern business. Beyond compliance, ESG is a cornerstone of our commitment to building a sustainable future for our company and delivering long-term value to all stakeholders which will also strengthen our brand image and reputation.

How have you integrated technology into your legal processes, and what impact has this had on efficiency and compliance?

I developed a comprehensive digital transformation strategy and successfully executed multiple initiatives, including contract management, board meeting optimisation, and action item tracking. By leveraging technology, I enhanced legal review processes, improved efficiency, and optimised workflows.

What do you see as the major legal challenges for businesses in the region over the next five years, and how are you preparing to address them?

Regulatory changes pose a significant challenge to businesses. Implementing a robust process to monitor, analyse, and respond to new regulations is essential for mitigating risks and ensuring ongoing compliance.

Have there been any recent trends or changes in the nature of disputes in the region?

KSA legal system continues to modernise especially with new commercial courts law and the risen arbitration landscape.

What are the current trends in M&A activity in the Middle East, and which sectors are seeing the most growth?

The ME has experienced a surge in M&A activity, driven by economic diversification, government initiatives, and foreign investment. Key trends include a shift away from oil, with a focus on technology, infrastructure, logistics, and healthcare. Government-led initiatives in electric vehicles, water, and green energy are also fuelling M&A deals.