Baker McKenzie LLP is admired for its master communities expertise and ‘broad skill set to support any nuances of transactions’. Practice head Keri Watkins is experienced in real estate developments, while Tessa Crawford is adept at real estate transactions. Jana Al-Afoo is often engaged in hotel matters across the UAE.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Our experience has been very positive due to the fact that they understand the subject matter very clearly.’
  • ‘Proactiveness, professionalism, understanding of subject matter, and commercial transparency.’
  • ‘The team has a broad skill set to support any nuances of transactions.’
  • ‘Keri Watkins is a very competent lawyer, who goes the extra mile to find solutions.’

Key clients

  • Aldar Properties PJSC
  • Murban
  • Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)
  • Emaar Properties (P.J.S.C)
  • Jebel Ali Free Zone FZE
  • Jumeirah International
  • Dubai Real Estate Corporation
  • Omniyat Middle East Real Estate Developments LLC
  • GEMS Education
  • Jones Lang LaSalle
  • AWR Rostamani
  • Rooya Holding Investments
  • DP World FZE
  • Dubai World
  • Olayan Group
  • Nakheel PJSC
  • Taaleem Holdings PSC
  • KSK Capital LLC
  • Hilton
  • Sunrise Hospitality
  • Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
  • Pygmalion Europe Hotel Fund II GP Sarl

Work highlights

  • Acting for Aldar on the acquisition of Al Maryah Tower, a Grade A commercial office property located on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi.
  • Advised Taaleem Holdings on the acquisition of the Jebel Ali School from Emirates REIT.
  • Advised Kitopi on its acquisition of AWJ Investments, a food and beverage company based in Dubai.

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.

Keri Watkins

Other key lawyers

Tessa Crawford, Jana Al-Afoo