Sahar Iqbal
Akhund ForbesAkhund Forbes
Client SatisfactionThe team at Akhund Forbes is praised for its ‘ability to manage intricate deals with precision’. The department advises on a variety of high-value and cross-border commercial and corporate matters and has a growing small and mid-cap domestic practice, as well. The team remains busy advising on numerous deals in the banking, financial services, power and energy space. In addition, it covers matters in the agri-produce sector in Pakistan and has been working on several matters in the tech and telecoms sectors. Led by Rabel Akhund, it is increasingly advising on climate change and green transition matters, as well as on fund formation projects. Sahar Iqbal garners praise for her work on a range of private equity and corporate deals. Bilal Awais was promoted to the partnership in January 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Akhund Forbes’ corporate and M&A practice stands out for its deep expertise and strategic insight in handling complex transactions. The practice’s unique strength lies in its comprehensive approach to corporate governance and mergers and acquisitions, providing highly effective and tailored legal solutions.'
‘The individuals at Akhund Forbes stand out for their exceptional expertise in corporate and M&A matters. They are distinguished by their thorough understanding of complex transactions and their proactive, client-focused approach.'
'Its ability to manage intricate deals with precision and provide tailored, strategic advice sets it apart from competitors.'
‘Rabel Z. Akhund is keen and friendly, making even the most complex legal issues feel manageable. He thinks outside the box and brings creative solutions to unique challenges faced by early-stage companies.’
'Sahar Iqbal - overall, one of the best lawyers to have on your side during any transaction.’
- 'What impresses me most about Akhund Forbes is its willingness to go the extra mile to accommodate clients' needs, its responsive and youthful energy, and its strong skillset across various practice areas. It demonstrates a genuine commitment to personalised service.'
- 'The team comprises seasoned professionals. The firm places a strong emphasis on continuous learning, ensuring that the team stays updated with the latest legal developments and industry trends.'
- 'The individuals in this practice stand out due to their exceptional expertise, collaborative culture, and commitment to continuous learning. Their personalised service, innovative solutions, and notable partners and associates ensure superior client outcomes.'
Key clients
- King & Wood Mallesons, Singapore and China
- Risk Management Services LLC
- Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership
- NBP Funds Management Limited
- MCB Investments Limited
- Arif Habib Corporation Limited
- Zhong Lun Law Firm
- Baker & McKenzie LLP
- Stanley Electronic CO., LTD
- Thai Stanley Electric Public Co., Ltd.
- Privatisation Commission, Government of Pakistan
- China Power Hub Generation Company (Pvt.) Limited
- JunHe Law Offices
- Gemini Office Holdings Limited
- Siegwerk Pakistan
- Siegwerk Germany
- Helm Industries
- Osborne Clarke
- Kumon Institute of Education Co., Ltd.
- DeHeng Law Offices
- VIKOR Healthcare (Pvt.) Limited
- Credit Suisse (Singapore)Limited
- Habib Rice Products Limited
- Karachi Down Syndrome Program
- Stealth Startup
- Encore Pay
- Pay Core
- Dentons
- Habib Bank Limited
- Müller & Bleher Holding GmbH & Co. KG
- Spotify
- Qist Bazaar
- Reckitt Benckiser Pakistan
- Sanofi Aventis Pakistan
- JS Bank Limited
- Advans Pakistan
- Sidley Austin
- AliExpress
- Sofy Inc
- Perkins Coie LLP
- Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
- Qiwi Plc
- Globalization Partners
- Amazon Data Services (Pvt) Ltd
- CMS Hasche Sigle
- DLA Piper UK LLP
- Veripark
- BYD Auto Industry Company Limited
- Sherani Consulting
- Ark Metals Pvt Ltd
- New Dhoki Copper Mines Pvt Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised Advans SA, an international microfinance banking group, on the sale of their Pakistan subsidiary Advans Pakistan Microfinance Bank to the Egyptian-headquartered MNT Halan.
- Advising the Privatisation Commission on the privatisation of Roosevelt Hotel, New York.
- Advising the Pakistani subsidiary of Amazon on corporate law and regulatory matters in Pakistan.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Rabel Akhund