Sarah Gonem
Zamakhchary & CoZamakhchary & Co’s dispute resolution team is renowned for its expertise in administrative, regulatory and tax disputes, both in the public and private sectors. The team benefits from a diverse group of bilingual lawyers, who hold qualifications from Saudi Arabia, the UK and the US. The team is led by Abdulatif AlHarthi, whose previous experience working with the Board of Grievances has enhanced the firm’s capabilities handling high-level administrative disputes. AlHarthi is joined by co-head Sarah Gonem who specialises in commercial litigation, and Muneerah Alwahbi who leads advocacy. The team has expanded by hiring tax dispute specialist Osama Kurdi who joined in June 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team at Z&Co is very strong on communication, collaboration and technical capability. In what is still a somewhat opaque jurisdiction, the explanations and insights I get from the team are enormously helpful in navigating complex issues and proceedings.’
‘Sarah Gonem is the lead on my cases and she embodies the strengths of the Z&Co team. Her commitment to producing quality work and guiding clients through complex and sometimes unpredictable processes is outstanding, and it is evident that she leads and develops her team very well. Others - The entire team is strong, but my current standouts are Dani Itani, particularly for his technical excellence, and Youssef Ageel for his excellent communication.’
‘Z&Co is a leading tax litigation firm with a proven track record of delivering exceptional results for clients facing complex tax disputes. Known for its strategic, client-centred approach, the firm combines deep expertise in tax law with a robust litigation practice to navigate intricate legal challenges.'
- 'Over the past few years, the firm has successfully successfully supported my company in resolving high-stakes cases involving tax audits, appeals, and litigation. Notably, the firm secured a landmark ruling setting precedents that have influenced tax policy. The team’s innovative legal strategies saved us millions in disputed taxes, penalties, and interest.'
- 'Z&Co ability to handle sensitive, high-value cases while maintaining the highest ethical standards has earned our respect.'
‘As the partner on the engagement, Sarah Gonem displayed exceptional professionalism in handling all matters related to our engagements and providing timely updates.’
‘They are great at bridging the gap between Western clients and the Saudi Arabian legal system.'
‘Sarah Gonem is the star of the show - by far one of the most user-friendly lawyer in the region.’
Key clients
- Grant Thornton
- Uber BV and Uber KSA
- Deloitte Touche & Co.
- Zain Group
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
- GE Power
- Weatherford
- Veolia
- Alf Healthcare
- Ocean Aero
Work highlights
- Represented the Respondent in an ad hoc arbitration in relation to the termination of three security contracts due to breaches by the contractor (the Claimant).
- Representing the government of Saudi Arabia as a creditor in bankruptcy proceedings concerning a Saudi construction company.
- Advising the client regarding bankruptcy proceedings, including submitting claims, communicating with the office holders, pleadings before the courts, and participating in creditors’ voting.
Lawyers
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Abdulatif AlHarthi, Sarah Gonem