Often advising major regeneration specialists and developers, CMS is proficient in real estate asset management and investment. Practice head Geoff Smith is well versed in large-scale property developments and leasing. András Klupács handles property financing, while Mai Marshad is another key team member.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'CMS has built up a highly respected real estate team over a relatively short period. They handle a diverse range of work, benefiting from a strong local client base and their extensive international network.'
  • 'The CMS real estate team is exceptional, consistently demonstrating professionalism and expertise. Their ability to manage complex real estate transactions with strategic insight and attention to detail is impressive.'
  • 'They are invaluable partners for navigating real estate deals, building trust-based relationships, and delivering the best outcomes.'
  • 'Geoff Smith is one of the most prominent real estate lawyers in the Middle East today. Renowned for his commerciality, flexibility, and strong client relationships, his expertise has earned him rising recognition year after year.'
  • 'Geoff Smith and Mai Marshad are very approachable and down-to-earth. Geoff’s deep knowledge of real estate law enhances his standing as a trusted legal adviser.'
  • 'I have had the pleasure of working with Mai Marshad on various real estate transactions. Her expertise, professionalism, and ability to manage complex deals with precision and efficiency are truly outstanding.'
  • 'Mai Marshad's combines technical legal acumen with a pragmatic approach, ensuring great results.'
  • 'Mai Marshad's proactive problem-solving and attention to detail address potential issues early, streamlining the process and delivering smoother transactions. She is personable, builds strong relationships, and is dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for her clients. She is an invaluable asset to CMS.'

Key clients

  • Al Mana Properties
  • Aldar Properties PJSC
  • ByteDance
  • Dubai World Trade Centre
  • Sweid & Sweid
  • Tesla
  • Expo City Dubai FZ LLC
  • Hilton Hotels Group
  • Morgan Stanley
  • TikTok
  • Taula Capital
  • Investment Corporation of Dubai
  • Snap

Work highlights

  • Advised Sweid & Sweid on the sale of a newly built office building 6 Falak in Dubai Media City to Aldar.
  • Advised ByteDance (the parent company of TikTok) on a build-to-suit agreement for the lease of an entire building of 160,000 square feet in Dubai Media City.
  • Advised Expo City Dubai on the sale of Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Geoff Smith
CMS

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Geoff Smith

Other key lawyers

Mai Marshad, András Klupács