UK law firm Addleshaw Goddard has opened an office in Oman, its second office in the Middle East after Dubai, after entering into an exclusive association with Nasser Al Habsi in Oman.

The office will be headed by two former Trowers & Hamlins partners: Roger Byrne, who was head of that firm’s banking and project finance practice in Oman, and Charles Schofield, who was head of corporate. Corporate specialist Nasser Al Habsi was also previously with Trowers & Hamlins in Muscat.

Addleshaw Goddard's new office is expected to open for business in February, subject to regulatory approval.

Byrne specialises in banking, finance and project finance law, and has worked in the region since 2008, while Schofield specialises in corporate and projects law and moved to Oman in 2005. Together with Al Habsi, they have advised on deals like the $1 billion merger of Oman International Bank with HSBC Oman and the syndicated secured term loan of $360 million to The Wave, the leading integrated tourism complex in Muscat.

Paul Devitt, Addleshaw Goddard's managing partner, said: “We are excited by the potential of a broader proposition in the Middle East generally, and Oman specifically. There is great potential for our services in Oman, and we are delighted that Roger and Charles are joining our association with Nasser Al Habsi. Our plans include the full and active participation of Omani lawyers at all levels to bring the best solution of local expertise and international experience to existing and future clients.”

Addleshaw Goddard opened its Dubai office in September 2012.

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