Holland & Knight has announced plans to expand its Abu Dhabi office, and also named construction and international arbitration specialist Andrew Stephenson as its executive, as it becomes the latest global firm to make the emirate a focal point of its Middle East strategy.

Abu Dhabi has seen its stock in the legal industry rise of late as a growing number of international firms see it as a reliable market with a great deal of potential. Notable firms to have opened offices there in recent times include Italian heavyweight Gianni, Origoni, Grippo and Partners (November), Pillsbury (October) and Linklaters (July). For the first two firms, the Abu Dhabi office was their first in the Middle East.

Holland & Knight’s Abu Dhabi office, which opened in 2007 and is located in the Al Masaood Tower, serves clients across the Middle East and in Afghanistan. It will see the addition of Stephenson and two other partners – Michael Cavanaugh and George Howell – who will relocate from the U.S.  In addition, Joseph McDonough will join the Abu Dhabi office as a partner.

“The addition of these partners, along with several new associates, will bolster our capabilities in the region.  We will continue to expand Holland and Knight's client services in energy, construction, transportation, finance, and international arbitration,” said Steven Sonberg, Holland & Knight’s managing partner, in a statement.  “These assignments will enhance our capabilities for our UAE clients and for our international clients with interests in the region.” ALB

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