Melissa Forbes-Miranda
Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLPStephenson Harwood Middle East LLP remains a key adviser to a diverse client base, including industry players, multinationals, and government-backed entities, while increasingly acting for family offices and US corporates and funds on a growing range of mandates. Diwakar Agarwal is praised for his ‘deep understanding of the legal and regulatory framework in the region’ and is particularly active in the tech, education, healthcare, and e-commerce industries. Melissa Forbes-Miranda is recognised for her expertise in cross-border transactions and distressed deals, while also advising on business-critical commercial agreements for regional corporates. Sandeep Dhama is sought after for market entry guidance and a variety of M&A and private equity transactions. Toufic Safie remains a crucial supporting presence.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Melissa Forbes-Miranda understands the deal dynamics and negotiates the key points firmly on our behalf.’
‘The team comprises highly skilled and experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. They prioritise their clients' needs and ensure timely responses to inquiries and concerns. They are adept at analysing situations quickly and taking decisive action to achieve the best possible outcomes.'
‘Client centric, solution oriented, pragmatic, and familiar with industry issues and practices in the Middle East region.’
‘Deep understanding of both the intricacies of the law and the industries they serve. This holistic knowledge allows them to offer tailored advice that addresses our unique challenges, rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.’
‘Sandeep Dhama continues to have our full trust as PoA and lawyer across all of our companies. He remains steadfast in his diligence, a solutions provider, always available, thorough and a pleasure to work with. He remains an asset to us.'
‘Stephenson Harwood Middle East LLP goes to great lengths to ensure client satisfaction. This involves consistent and timely services, prompt replies to communication, great teamwork and collaboration.’
‘The individuals are very knowledgeable lawyers with excellent communication skills. They show professionalism in their work and their attitude, respond promptly to communication and work together as a team to ensure client satisfaction.’
‘Diwakar Agarwal is our go to partner for all the issues in the region. He has deep understanding of legal and regulatory framework in the region and is also well networked, therefore he is able to offer practical advice to navigate complex issues with a focus on problem solving. He is extremely efficient and responsive while being thorough and detailed depending upon the requirement of the given situation on hand. He is committed to the project, dependable and is a delight to work with’
Key clients
- Al Dahra Group
- Jonas Software
- Veolia
- Muller and Phipps Group Holdings Limited
- GradeOne
- TBO Tek Limited
- Chart Industries
- Physicswallah Pvt Ltd
- Badia Al Sahra Agricultural L.L.C
- EdgePoint Wealth Management Inc.
- Fenix Networks
- KIMSHEALTH
- Ardonagh Specialty
- Madison Pacific Trust Limited
- UltraTech Cement Middle East Investments
- S&P Global Platts
- Kaya Middle East FZE
- Gemballa Limited
- Cotecna Inspection SA
- Aurionpro Solutions Ltd
- Vision Bank
- FSN International Pvt. Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised Muller and Phipps Group Holdings Limited on its acquisition of Power League Gaming FZ-LLC, an e-sports and gaming marketing consultancy based in the UAE.
- Advised TBO Tek Ltd on its initial public offering of equity shares and a private placement in jurisdictions outside of India. The IPO, valued at INR 1,550.81 crore, opened at a 55% premium.
- Advised GradeOne's majority shareholder on the sale of its stake in the company to Edge Group PJSC.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Diwakar Agarwal, Sandeep Dhama, Melissa Forbes-Miranda