Clifford Chance‘s diverse practice spans the full spectrum of banking and finance products, demonstrating a strong track record in acquisition finance, project finance, and ECA-backed transactions. The firm also maintains a dedicated Islamic finance offering and is highly active in financing matters across the region. Team lead Qudeer Latif is highly regarded for his Islamic finance capabilities and has recently been active in the real estate, infrastructure and aviation industries. Mohamed Hamra-Krouha focuses primarily on project financings throughout the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and North Africa. Graham Brewer is a trusted adviser to regional and international banks, development institutions, and export credit agencies, while Nicola Reader is noted for her strength in restructuring and bankruptcy matters. Jeremy Barker is another key figure for energy-related financings. The team was further strengthened by the arrival of Chirag Sanghrajka from Latham & Watkins LLP in October 2023, enhancing its project finance capabilities. Bola Coker also comes recommended.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'I really enjoyed every moment of working alongside such an incredible team. They are smart and efficient.'

Key clients

  • Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC
  • Al Dur Power and Water Company B.S.C.
  • Al Jaber Group
  • ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Company KSCP
  • Bank Muscat
  • Export-Import Bank of Korea
  • First Abu Dhabi Bank
  • International Finance Corporation
  • JERA
  • M42 Ltd
  • National Bank of Greece
  • Shomoul Holding
  • Sienna Real Estate for the Saud Al Rashed family office from Kuwait
  • Société General
  • Standard Chartered Bank and Abu Dhabi Development Fund acting through its Exports Credit Office
  • TAQA
  • TAWAL

Work highlights

  • Advised TAWAL on Shari‘a-compliant term loan and bridge finance facilities to fund the acquisition of three telecommunications tower asset companies in Bulgaria, Slovenia and Croatia from the United Group.
  • Advised a consortium of banks led by Citibank, BNP Paribas, HSBC Bank Middle East, and MUFG Bank in connection with the financing for a US$3.6 billion acquisition by AviLease of Standard Chartered's aircraft leasing business.
  • Advised M42 in connection with its acquisition of the entire share capital of Diaverum AB from Bridgepoint Group; and the AED6.75 billion financing for the acquisition.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Qudeer Latif
Hall of fameClifford Chance
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Bola Coker
Clifford Chance
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Graham Brewer
Clifford Chance

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Qudeer Latif

Other key lawyers

Mohamed Hamra-Krouha, Graham Brewer, Nicola Reader, Jeremy Barker, Chirag Sanghrajka, Bola Coker